What are Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals?

Written by Paris Kazemian
Before dealing with EDCs (Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals), it is better to know about chemicals. Chemicals are substances composed of tiny particles and come in different forms: solid, liquid, or gas. They can be found in nature or created by humans. Chemicals are everywhere in our daily lives, even inside our bodies where they make up hormones. However, certain chemicals in our environment, food, and products can mess with our body’s natural systems, particularly the endocrine system, which regulates hormones.

Scientists call these troublemakers “Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals,” or EDCs for short. EDCs can throw a wrench in our body’s hormonal works, potentially leading to health issues. So, while chemicals are all around us and necessary for many things, it’s essential to be aware of the ones that can cause problems and strive to limit our exposure to them for a healthier life.

The endocrine system is a complex network of glands and hormones that regulate various physiological processes, including growth, development, metabolism, and reproductive functions.

EDCs can disrupt the endocrine system by mimicking, blocking, or altering the production, release, transport, metabolism, binding, or elimination of natural hormones in the body. These chemicals can interfere with the body’s hormonal signaling pathways and have the potential to cause a wide range of adverse health effects.

What are exocrine and endocrine glands?

One of the very important systems in the body is the endocrine system. These glands are located throughout the body and produce and secrete specific chemical substances. Each of these secretory substances of the endocrine system controls a specific function in the body. Generally, the glands of the body are divided into two categories:

Endocrine glands

The substance produced by the endocrine glands enters the bloodstream directly. The endocrine system is a part of the body’s internal system that works together to maintain and control the coordination of internal structures. The substance secreted by these glands is called a hormone, and this system sends important signals to various parts of the body by producing and secreting them. In this system, channels are not used to release hormones, and hormones are directly poured into the blood.

Exocrine glands

In this system, the substances produced are not hormones. As the name of the exocrine gland system suggests, in this system, the produced substance is transferred to the external environment and never enters the bloodstream. Many important functions of the body are performed by the structures of the exocrine glands.

Exposure to EDCs can occur through various routes, including ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact. The effects of EDC exposure can vary depending on factors like the timing of exposure (e.g., during fetal development or puberty) and the duration and level of exposure. Adverse health effects associated with EDC exposure include infertility, developmental abnormalities, obesity, diabetes, certain cancers, and disruptions in the reproductive and hormonal systems.

Where are EDCs in our daily life?

Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) can be found in various aspects of our daily lives. Some common sources and places where EDCs may be present include:

1. Pesticides: EDCs can be found in many pesticides used in agriculture and gardening.
2. Solvents: Some industrial and household cleaning products may contain EDCs.
3. Plastics: EDCs can leach from plastic containers and packaging, especially when exposed to heat or sunlight.
4. Food Storage Materials: Some food containers, especially those made from certain plastics, can release EDCs into the food they hold.
5. Personal Care Products: Many cosmetics, shampoos, lotions, and other personal care items contain EDCs in the form of chemicals like phthalates and parabens.

1. Water Supply: EDCs can enter our water supply through agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, and improper disposal of pharmaceuticals.
2. Canned Foods: The lining of some canned foods may contain EDCs, which can migrate into the food.
3. Non-Stick Cookware: Some non-stick cookware coatings can release EDCs when heated at high temperatures.
4. Dust and Air: EDCs can become airborne or settle as dust particles in indoor environments.
5. Consumer Products: EDCs may also be present in items like electronics, furniture, and flame retardants used in textiles.

It’s important to be aware of these potential sources of EDC exposure and take steps to reduce contact with them when possible, especially for long-term health and well-being.

How chemicals affect our health?

Scientists have gathered more and more evidence showing that many everyday chemicals we come across may lead to health issues related to our hormones. These problems can involve things like trouble getting pregnant, becoming overweight, or developing type 2 diabetes.

One group of chemicals that’s been widely studied is called perfluoro alkyl substances, or PFAS for short. These chemicals have been around since the 1950s and are often used because they’re really good at repelling water. You can find them in things like carpets, food packages, and firefighting foam. People sometimes call them “forever chemicals” because they stick around for a long time.

Here’s the thing: even though PFAS aren’t made in Australia, they’re still here. They’ve made their way into our environment and even into our bodies. And they can mess with our hormones, which isn’t good for our health.

Some of the endocrine health concerns

• Obesity: People with higher levels of PFAS were shown to be associated with more weight gain following dieting. Levels were also associated with a lower metabolic rate
• Cholesterol: In Australia, people living close to Australian defence force bases have higher amounts of PFAS in their bodies. The research discovered that those with elevated PFAS levels also had higher cholesterol levels.
• Type 2 Diabetes: These chemicals could increase the chances of developing type 2 diabetes, a disease that affects how our bodies use sugar for energy.
• Infertility: studies have shown increased levels in mothers associated with lower sperm counts and poor sperm quality in adult male children. Both of which can lead to infertility.

How about Plastics?

Our plastic stuff has numbers on them, like 1 to 7. We usually think these numbers help with recycling and reducing waste, but they also tell us more about the plastic itself. These numbers are like clues. They show us what the main plastic is made of, but they don’t tell us about other chemicals in it. Some of these plastics can be dangerous. For example, plastic with the number 3 or 7 can let out bad chemicals, like BPA, which can mess with our hormones. Lots of people are exposed to BPA, and many studies on animals have shown it can be harmful.

Practical ideas to reduce or avoid EDCs

Reducing or avoiding Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) in your daily life can help protect your health. Here are some steps you can take:

Choose Natural Cleaning Products: Many household cleaning products contain EDCs. Opt for natural or eco-friendly cleaning alternatives that use fewer harmful chemicals.

Use Safe Personal Care Products: Check the labels of personal care items like cosmetics, shampoos, and soaps. Choose products that are free from EDCs, such as phthalates and parabens.

Filter Your Water: Install a water filter that can remove EDCs, such as activated carbon or reverse osmosis systems, to reduce exposure to contaminated drinking water.

Buy Organic Foods: Pesticides used in conventional farming can contain EDCs. Choose organic foods whenever possible to reduce your exposure to these chemicals.

Avoid Plastic Containers: EDCs can leach from plastic containers into food and beverages. Use glass or stainless steel containers for storage and avoid heating food in plastic containers, especially in the microwave.

Reduce Canned Food Consumption: Some canned foods have linings that contain EDCs. Opt for fresh or frozen foods, or choose products in BPA-free cans.

Be Mindful of Pesticides: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and consider peeling them when applicable, to reduce exposure to pesticide residues.

Choose Non-Toxic Cookware: Some cookware can release EDCs when heated. Use stainless steel, cast iron, or glass cookware instead of non-stick coatings.

Limit Fast Food and Processed Foods: These often contain additives and packaging that may introduce EDCs into your diet.

Educate Yourself: Stay informed about EDCs and their sources. Read labels, stay updated on research, and make informed choices.

Advocate for Change: Support policies and regulations that limit the use of EDCs in products and promote safer alternatives. Engage with local and national initiatives advocating for cleaner environments.

Properly Dispose of E-Waste: Electronics and appliances may contain EDCs. Recycle or dispose of them through proper channels to prevent these chemicals from entering the environment.

Reduce Plastic Use: Minimize the use of single-use plastics and opt for reusable alternatives. Avoid plastic containers, especially for hot or acidic foods and beverages.

Remember that it may not be possible to completely eliminate EDC exposure, but taking these steps can significantly reduce your risk and promote a healthier lifestyle.

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