In recent years, there has been growing interest in knowing what is contained in the products we apply to our skin. Until recently, the ingredients present in cosmetics, cleaning products, and packaging were rarely questioned. However, today we know that some of them, such as endocrine disruptors, can have a direct impact on our hormonal health.
These compounds are more present in our daily lives than we think and can be found in creams, makeup, or perfumes, as well as in plastic packaging, textiles, or certain foods.
In this article, we explain clearly and simply what endocrine disruptors are, where they are found, how they affect the body, and what you can do to reduce their presence in your life.
What are endocrine disruptors?
Endocrine disruptors are chemical substances that interfere with the proper functioning of the endocrine system, that is, they alter the body's hormones. In the body, hormones play a very important role, as they are responsible for communication between cells and different organs and control functions as important as growth, metabolism, sleep, mood, and fertility.
These substances can act as imitators of our hormones (false messengers), interfere with their production, or block their action. As a result, negative health effects can be triggered, even with very small exposures. For example, some endocrine disruptors can remain in the body for up to 10 years, accumulating over time.
What effects can they have on our bodies?
Although the effect of endocrine disruptors depends on many factors (such as dose, duration of exposure, or age), scientific studies have linked their presence to various health problems, including:
- Hormonal and reproductive disorders (such as infertility or early puberty).
- Thyroid problems.
- Developmental problems.
- Increased risk of certain types of cancer.
- Alterations of the immune and neurological systems.
The most concerning thing is that many of these effects can appear even with very low exposures, especially if they occur during sensitive developmental stages, such as pregnancy or childhood. During these periods, the body is especially vulnerable, so exposure could have long-term health effects.
Where are endocrine disruptors found?
Today, there are more than 1,000 chemical substances identified as potential endocrine disruptors, and many of them are present in everyday products. Some of the most common places where they can be found are:
- Hygiene and cosmetic products: synthetic perfumes, deodorants, creams, make-up, and gels containing phthalates, parabens, or triclosan.
- Plastics and food packaging: these substances can be present in bottles, cans, tuppers, and other plastic containers, as these contain bisphenol A (BPA).
- Pesticides and cleaning products: many chemicals used in agriculture and household cleaning contain substances with hormonal effects.
- Textiles treated with flame retardants: to make some products less flammable, chemicals are added that can be toxic upon contact with the skin.
- Heavy metals: mercury, cadmium, or arsenic, even if found in the environment, can cause alterations in the hormonal system. These metals can reach us through the food we consume.
As can be seen, these substances are present in everyday products, so if awareness is not raised, exposure can be continuous. Endocrine disruptors can enter the body through food, inhalation, or the skin.
How can exposure to these compounds be reduced?
Endocrine disruptors can greatly affect our health, so if we want to protect our bodies, we must try to ensure that exposure to them is minimal or nonexistent. To maintain a healthy lifestyle free of disruptors, small changes can be made to your routine:
- Choose natural and toxic-free cosmetics. Switching to cosmetics without harmful ingredients for the body can make a huge difference in our exposure to endocrine disruptors. With this simple gesture, we will reduce contact with them to a large extent.
- Avoid heating food in plastic containers. It is recommended to replace plastic containers with glass or ceramic ones, as these do not contain any element that could be toxic.
- Use glass or stainless steel bottles.
- Avoid processed and canned food. Although it can be a challenge, you should avoid this type of food as much as possible, as it may contain substances that act as endocrine disruptors.
- Check labels: the simpler and more natural the ingredient list, the better.
- Opt for fresh and organic foods, whenever possible.
- Ventilate your home daily and avoid excessive use of air fresheners and harsh cleaners.
Start taking care of yourself naturally
Being aware of what we consume is the first step to protecting our hormonal balance and that of the world around us. Opting for natural, safe, and responsible alternatives not only improves our health but also contributes to a more sustainable future.
At Banbu, we have created conscious cosmetics, free of toxic ingredients, unnecessary plastics, and with 100% safe formulas for you and the planet. Starting to use our products made without endocrine disruptors will be a before and after for your health.
