People are regularly exposed to chemicals that cause health problems. In fact, such chemicals are so common that they are almost impossible to avoid entirely. However, it is possible to limit your exposure to such chemicals.
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals are among the most harmful types of chemicals. They are found in a wide range of man-made products. However, many manufacturers are making products without EDCs due to an increased level of awareness of the dangers of these chemicals. This makes avoiding EDCs possible.
Keep reading for more info on EDCs and how to avoid them.
Health problems caused by EDCs
EDCs cause problems for the body’s endocrine system, which is responsible for producing hormones and controlling their levels within the body. Hormones influence many bodily processes, which means that EDCs can cause a wide range of health problems. These problems range from fertility to issues to obesity to nervous disorders and even cancer.
EDCs are known to cause prostate cancer and breast cancer. A new study by the National Institutes of Health even shows a potential link between EDCs in hair straightening products and uterine cancer. This has led to many women filing a hair relaxer uterine cancer lawsuit.
EDCs are rare in nature
There is a common misconception that EDCs are solely man-made. However, there are a few natural EDCs. For example, soy-based products may contain phytoestrogens. These plant hormones are so similar to hormones produced by the human endocrine system that they can trick the body into thinking that it has produced more estrogen than it actually has. This can lead to low estrogen levels.
A variety of man-made products contain EDCs
The vast majority of EDCs are man-made chemicals. Perhaps the most common source of EDCs is commercial pesticides. These pesticides are commonly sprayed on fruits and vegetables to repel insects. Of course, this can lead to high levels of EDCs in non-organic produce. However, these pesticides can also be found in meat and fish. This is because fish and animals like pigs or cows may eat plants that have been sprayed down with these pesticides.
Beauty products can also contain high levels of EDCs like parabens and phthalates. Even the fragrances found in Manu beauty products may contain EDCs. Also, some skin care products contain sunscreen. The UV filters found in sunscreen are EDCs.
Avoiding EDC sources
It may be impossible to completely avoid exposure to EDCs. However, it is possible to limit your exposure. If possible, you should buy organic produce. This product has not been treated with the chemical pesticides that contain EDCs. It is also important to avoid BPA, which is an EDC that is commonly found in plastics. BPA in food and drink containers may be especially dangerous, as the food and drink may become contaminated. Thankfully, many manufacturers are now making BPA-free products.
Some manufacturers are also producing beauty products without EDCs. When shopping for these products, it is important to look for labels that say “Parabens free” and “Phthalates free.” These products may be hard to find, so you may want to try all-natural beauty treatments instead.
