What Are Endocrine Disruptors?

We can say that endocrine disruptors are a topical issue. They create discussions among the population and are also a cause for concern due to their effects on both human health and the environment.

Scientific knowledge about endocrine disruptors has evolved a lot in recent decades. Specific studies of population groups show that a large part of the population is exposed to them. Experts have proven their presence in human blood, urine and adipose tissue.

In recent decades, there has been an increase in the number of cases of some diseases and health problems, which has led experts to question the possible relationship to endocrine disruptors. Below we analyze this problem.

What are endocrine disruptors?

Endocrine disruptors belong to a broader group, which are endocrine disruptors. These are compounds that can interfere with normal hormonal functions. Endocrine disruptors are when this interaction has negative effects.

The official definition is that of the World Health Organization.

In a 2002 document, the WHO stated that an endocrine disruptor is an “exogenous substance or mixture that alters the functions of the endocrine system and, as a result, causes adverse health effects in an intact organism or its offspring or populations”.

How do they disrupt our endocrine system?

As we explained above, the main characteristic of endocrine disruptors is that they interfere with the function of the normal hormonal system. They usually do this in three ways:

In some cases , they mimic a natural hormone. Thus, they trigger the same reactions that would have been triggered if your body secretes the hormone.
Other times, they can block the hormone receptors in cells, allowing them to respond to the signals the hormones send.

Finally, they can interfere with normal hormone synthesis, transport, metabolism and secretion.

The endocrine system regulates many different bodily functions, which can therefore be changed in the short or long term. Here are some of them:

Development of the musculoskeletal system.
Brain development.
Temperature control (thermoregulation).
Metabolism.
Reproductive functions.

The negative effects

The negative effects of endocrine disruptors affect not only humans but also other species, such as birds, reptiles, fish, molluscs and other mammals.

One of their additional problems is that they sometimes do not have immediate effects. These are, for example, substances that affect a fetus through the mother’s intake or exposure. The problems that continued exposure to a large number of these types of compounds cause are currently unknown.

Endocrine disruptors have been linked to some human health problems. Some of them are the following:

Low sperm count in men.
Higher incidence of birth defects on both genitals in both girls and boys.
Higher incidence of some forms of hormone-sensitive cancer, such as breast or pancreatic cancer.
Metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance, diabetes or obesity.

The main endocrine disruptors

Many different substances can disrupt the hormonal system. Some are found in nature, while others are synthetic. One of the main problems is that many everyday products contain them.

Broadly speaking and without going into details, endocrine disruptors can reach you via the following:

Food.
Cosmetic products.
Cleaning or groceries.

Endocrine disruptors are found in foods

We also find several subtypes of them. Meat, fish or milk may contain them if the animals have been treated with hormones. Although banned in many countries, it has become more difficult to regulate due to the globalization of consumption.

Others come from accidental contamination that can occur during the production process. For example, dioxins, pesticides and other phytopharmaceutical products. They can also be found in product presentation and packaging materials, such as ink, glue, paper, plastic or cardboard. Some of them are the following:

Bisphenol A.
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
Phthalates.

Contact through cosmetic products

Some cosmetic and personal hygiene products contain compounds with hormonal activity. We can categorize some of the known substances into three major groups:

Parabens.
Triclosan.
Benzophenone.

Possible endocrine disruptors in cleaning products and common consumables

In addition to cleaning products, we are talking about ordinary goods such as televisions, telephone and computer screens, upholstery of sofas, furniture, etc. In fact, house dust can contain a large amount of these substances.

Reduce the effect of endocrine disruptors

As we have explained in this article, we come in contact with many substances that can disrupt our home on a daily basis. Although it is impossible to reduce their presence completely, you can try to minimize this risk with a few simple measures:

First, choose organic foods whenever possible.
Second, avoid plastic containers, especially those containing bisphenol A, styrene and phthalates.
Similarly, choose materials such as glass, ceramic or wood for food storage as well as for kitchen utensils.

In addition, go for natural, paraben-free cosmetics that do not contain synthetic fragrances. This applies to shampoo and soap, as well as deodorants, makeup or sunscreen. Keep an eye on the “COSMOS NATURAL” certification.
Lastly, choose cleaning products and clothes with the certification “ECOCERT”.

Endocrine disruptors are harmful to health

As we have mentioned several times in this article, endocrine disruptors are harmful to health. They are always in the environment as they are found in food and its containers, in drinking water, in cosmetic products and in many groceries.

It is important to take small daily measures to minimize the use of these products and exposure to these substances. Nevertheless, public regulations and rules are also important.