Men and women naturally produce oestrogen which is important for bone growth, blood clotting and reproduction. Xenoestrogens, however, are industrially made compounds.

What’s bad about Xenoestrogens?

• Are a category of endocrine disruptors that mimic or block the effects of our endogenous oestrogen à may throw the hormone balance out and create a condition known as oestrogen dominance
• Are NOT biodegradable à become stored in our fat cells
• Are far more potent than our natural oestrogen à the resulting imbalance can have far-reaching effects, for example:

• Increased risk of breast, prostate, and testicular cancer
• Obesity and altered metabolism
• Fertility issues including miscarriages
• Early puberty
• Cardiovascular disease due to the acceleration in the accumulation of fat, both inside and outside the blood vessels
• Neurological problems such as learning and memory
• Impact on gross motor function and reduced visual recognition memory in children

How to reduce xenoestrogen exposure:

• Consume hormone-free, meat, dairy, and wild caught fish vs. farmed varieties
• Avoid produce that has been sprayed with pesticides
• Use glass rather than plastic containers for food
• Be sure not to heat or microwave food in plastic bags or containers.
• Be wary of drinking continuously from plastic water bottles. Avoid placing your plastic bottles or containers in direct sunlight.
• Avoid herbicides and insecticides
• Avoid bleached paper such as coffee filters, tissue paper, napkins, bleached tea bags, etc.
• Avoid the use of household chlorine containing bleach or use disposable gloves and open all the windows if working with chemicals
• Change to organic sanitary napkins and tampons
• Reduce use of nail polish, nail polish remover, etc.
• Use genuine organic and chemical free cleaning products or learn how to make your own.

Xenoestrogens are essentially everywhere in our environment. Due to the interference with the functioning of our naturally occurring oestrogen, awareness is key. Check labels before buying products. Although organic foods and glass/ceramic ware are costly, it may offset the significant costs of long-term health issues.

To learn more come and speak to our friendly pharmacists or naturopath. We love to chat and help.