Just Say No! To Hormone-Disrupters

We have become increasingly aware as a society about what we put in our bodies - we know we should eat organic, limit our intake of processed foods and we also know that certain types of plastics contain harmful chemicals such as BPAs and phthalates.

But perhaps it's time to start thinking about it on an even deeper level. Let's think about the why's. Why organic? Why should I invest in one of those $30.00 Swell bottles instead of just buying a plastic bottle of water? 

Well, all of these things contain chemical disrupters that can wreak havoc on our bodies - more specifically our hormones and endocrine systems. This can effect everything from prenatal development, puberty, fertility, appetite, metabolism and fat storage.  Since we are exposed to these chemicals daily and are exposed to them as early as in utero, it's definitely worth taking seriously!

Here are just a few simple ways to avoid those nasty hormone-disrupting chemicals (HDCs) for a healthier lifestyle.

 

 

1. Eat Organic. There are tons of chemicals that companies use to help crops grow healthier and more abundant. The problem? All of these chemicals get passed on into our systems! Yuck!  To help us avoid this, the Environmental Working Group  (EWG.org) puts out a list called the dirty dozen as part of its annual Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce™, which analyzes Department of Agriculture test data to identify which fruits and vegetables are most and least contaminated with pesticide residues.  So very useful! 
2. Opt for Clean Beauty.  Unfortunately, many cosmetics and skincare formulas are packed with these HDCs, which are known to alter your hormones in many ways from increasing or decreasing the production of certain hormones to telling cells to die prematurely. Be safe and use beauty and skincare products  from brands that understand the importance of clean skincare, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding. 
3. Wash your hands. YES! By simply washing your hands you not only keep yourself healthy and virus free, but you also wash off any chemical residue.
4. Ditch the cans.  Cut down on your canned food intake and buy fresh food that's not wrapped in plastic . Cans, even those labeled "BPA-free" may use a similar chemical that may not even be any safer or better for the planet. 
5. Clean greener! Let's face it, most cleaning products contain very harmful chemicals. Instead try cleaning with vinegar, or baking soda. You can look for products with the SAFER CHOICE LABEL. 

 We recommend  Dr. Tassande's book good, Sicker, Fatter, Poorer: The Urgent Threat of Hormone-Disrupting Chemicals to Our Health and Future . . . and What We Can Do About It  as a great resource for more information on avoiding hormone-disruptors.