The Hidden Dangers of Endocrine Disruptors.
How Synthetic Fabrics Impact Your Health
Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that can interfere with your body’s hormone system, leading to a range of health problems. Commonly found in synthetic fabrics, chemicals like phthalates and BPA (bisphenol A) are among the most notorious endocrine disruptors. At Long Healthy Living, we emphasize the importance of understanding these chemicals’ impact on health and advocate for safer, natural alternatives. Here’s what you need to know about endocrine disruption, supported by scientific evidence.
What Are Endocrine Disruptors?
Endocrine disruptors are substances that can interfere with the normal functioning of the endocrine system. This system is responsible for regulating hormones, which are critical for many bodily functions, including metabolism, growth, development, and reproduction. Endocrine disruptors can mimic natural hormones, block their action, or alter their levels, leading to significant health issues.
Common Endocrine Disruptors in Synthetic Fabrics
Phthalates
Phthalates make plastics more flexible and are commonly found in synthetic fabrics. They are known to interfere with hormonal balance, leading to reproductive health issues, obesity, and metabolic disorders.
BPA (Bisphenol A)
BPA is used in the production of certain plastics and resins, including those found in synthetic fabrics. It can mimic estrogen, disrupting hormonal functions. Research links BPA exposure to thyroid dysfunction, reproductive issues, and certain cancers.
Formaldehyde
Used to make fabrics wrinkle-resistant, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen that can cause respiratory issues and skin irritation.
Perfluorinated Compounds (PFCs)
PFCs are used for water and stain resistance. They can accumulate in the human body, leading to liver toxicity, immune system disruption, and increased cancer risk.
Flame Retardants
These chemicals make fabrics less flammable but can disrupt endocrine function, leading to thyroid problems, reproductive issues, and developmental delays.
How Do Endocrine Disruptors Work?
Endocrine disruptors can interfere with the hormone system in several ways:
- Mimicking Natural Hormones: They can imitate natural hormones in the body, like estrogen and testosterone, leading to overstimulation or interference with normal hormonal functions.
- Blocking Hormone Receptors: Some disruptors can bind to hormone receptors, preventing natural hormones from binding and exerting their effects.
- Altering Hormone Levels: They can affect the production, release, transport, and breakdown of natural hormones, leading to imbalances.
Health Effects of Endocrine Disruptors
Thyroid Dysfunction
Endocrine disruptors can interfere with thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, energy levels, and growth. Disruption can lead to hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, both of which have significant health consequences.
Metabolic Disorders
Exposure to endocrine disruptors has been linked to metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes. These chemicals can interfere with glucose and lipid metabolism, leading to weight gain and insulin resistance.
Reproductive Issues
Endocrine disruptors can affect reproductive health by interfering with hormones involved in the development and function of the reproductive system. This can lead to issues like infertility, developmental problems in offspring, and increased risk of reproductive cancers.
Cancer
Certain endocrine disruptors have been linked to an increased risk of cancers, particularly hormone-related cancers like breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer. These chemicals can promote the growth of hormone-dependent cancer cells.
Neurological Issues
Exposure to endocrine disruptors during critical periods of brain development can lead to neurological and behavioral problems, including conditions like ADHD and autism.
Cardiovascular Problems
Endocrine disruptors can also affect the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
Reducing Exposure to Endocrine Disruptors
To minimize exposure to endocrine disruptors, consider these tips:
Choose Natural Fibers: Opt for clothing made from natural fibers like cotton, wool, linen, and silk. These materials are less likely to contain harmful chemicals.
Look for Organic Labels: Choose organic clothing to ensure that the fibers are free from harmful pesticides and chemical treatments.
Wash New Clothes: Washing new clothes before wearing them can help remove any residual chemicals from the manufacturing process.
Avoid Synthetic Fabrics: Reduce the use of synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic, which are more likely to contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
Support Sustainable Brands: Choose brands that prioritize sustainability and use natural, organic materials in their products.
Check Labels: Look for labels that specify “phthalate-free,” “BPA-free,” and “formaldehyde-free.”
Embrace Natural Fibers for Better Health
At Long Healthy Living, we believe in the importance of making informed choices about what we wear. By understanding the health risks associated with synthetic fabrics and choosing natural fibers, you can reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and contribute to a healthier lifestyle. The journey to better health and sustainability starts with simple, conscious choices that have profound impacts on our well-being and the planet.
References
- Wang Y, Qian H. Phthalates and Their Impacts on Human Health. Healthcare (Basel). 2021 May 18;9(5):603. doi: 10.3390/healthcare9050603. PMID: 34069956; PMCID: PMC8157593.
- Cimmino I, Fiory F, Perruolo G, Miele C, Beguinot F, Formisano P, Oriente F. Potential Mechanisms of Bisphenol A (BPA) Contributing to Human Disease. Int J Mol Sci. 2020 Aug 11;21(16):5761. doi: 10.3390/ijms21165761. PMID: 32796699; PMCID: PMC7460848.
- https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/formaldehyde
- https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/sites/pease/documents/perflourinated_chemicals_508.pdf
- https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/flame_retardants
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8541-thyroid-disease
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/metabolic-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20351916
- Rattan S, Zhou C, Chiang C, Mahalingam S, Brehm E, Flaws JA. Exposure to endocrine disruptors during adulthood: consequences for female fertility. J Endocrinol. 2017 Jun;233(3):R109-R129. doi: 10.1530/JOE-17-0023. Epub 2017 Mar 29. PMID: 28356401; PMCID: PMC5479690.
- https://www.endocrine.org/topics/edc/what-edcs-are/common-edcs/cancer
- Kajta M, Wójtowicz AK. Impact of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on neural development and the onset of neurological disorders. Pharmacol Rep. 2013;65(6):1632-9. doi: 10.1016/s1734-1140(13)71524-x. PMID: 24553011.
- Fu X, Xu J, Zhang R, Yu J. The association between environmental endocrine disruptors and cardiovascular diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Environ Res. 2020 Aug;187:109464. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109464. Epub 2020 Apr 9. PMID: 32438096.
Choose natural fibers for your clothing and embrace a healthier lifestyle. Your body and the environment will thank you for it.
