Endocrine Disruptors can interfere with proper production and function of hormone levels - affecting fertility, early puberty, genital malformations, nervous system function, immune function, certain cancers, respiratory problems, growth, cardiovascular problems, neurological and learning disabilities and more. 

There are about 1000 chemicals with endocrine disrupting effects including pesticides like glyphosate, plastics and food storage materials like bisphenols, nonstick products containing PFAS, and personal care products that contain phtalates and parabens, as wel as fragrance. Each of these merit their own category - see below for more information. 

Fragrance mixtures can be especially harmful because they can contain hundreds of undisclosed chemicals, including allergens and endocrine disruptors, that may affect hormone balance or irritate the skin, lungs, and respiratory system. Common sources include perfumes, candles, scented cleaning products, personal care products like lotions and shampoos, and air fresheners. Take a look at your product labels and you'll notice them in almost everhthing! An easy "first step" is to choose fragrance-free products.

Bisphenols, such as BPA and BPS, can act as endocrine disruptors, meaning they interfere with the body’s hormones and may affect reproductive health, metabolism, and development. Microplastics have been found throughout the human body, and emerging research suggests they may contribute to inflammation, oxidative stress, hormone disruption, and other biological changes. 

They enter our food when these chemicals leach out of plastic containers, canned food lining, and other packaging—especially when heated (who has plastic water bottles in their hot cars?) or exposed to wear (like reusing a plastic water bottle). They are present in store receipts so an easy "first step" is to avoid touching receipts with bare hands.

Want to learn more? Check out The Plastic Detox documentary on Netflix for more information.

PFAS and similar “forever chemicals” are harmful because they build up in the body over time and are linked to immune dysfunction, thyroid and other hormone disruption, liver enxyme and kidney dysfunction, fertility issues, and increased risk of certain cancers. 

Unlike other synthetic chemicals, it takes many YEARS to detox them from your body. One of the popularly known sources of PFAS is non-stick cookware, but PFAS enter our bodies through many avenues, including contaminated water, food packaging like microwave popcorn packages, environmental pollution, furniture, and building materials. 

See diagram at left for more examples.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are harmful because they easily become airborne and can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs when inhaled. Long-term or high-level exposure can damage the nervous system, liver, and kidneys, and some VOCs are linked to increased cancer risk. 

Lead & Cadmium
Lead and cadmium are toxic heavy metals that can accumulate in the body over time. Exposure has been linked to damage to the brain, kidneys, and other organs, and these metals can enter the food supply through contaminated soil, water, and industrial pollution.

Aluminum
Aluminum is commonly found in cookware, food packaging, and personal care products. High levels of exposure have been associated with neurological effects, and some research suggests aluminum may interfere with hormone function.

Arsenic
Arsenic is a toxic metal that can be found in some foods, drinking water, and consumer products. Long-term exposure has been linked to increased risks of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and nervous system damage.

Mercury
Mercury can accumulate in certain fish, seafood, and environmental pollutants. Exposure may affect the brain, nervous system, and kidneys, with developing fetuses and young children being especially sensitive to its effects.

Flame retardants are chemicals commonly added to furniture, electronics, and household products to reduce fire risk. Some flame retardants have been linked to hormone disruption, developmental and reproductive problems, and effects on the brain and nervous system, particularly with long-term exposure.

Although flame retardants can help slow the spread of fire, some have been associated with hormone disruption, reproductive issues, and impacts on brain development and neurological health. These chemicals can accumulate in household dust and enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact.

Glyphosate is a common weed killer used in agriculture that can leave residues on some foods. Research on its health effects is ongoing, but studies have raised concerns about possible effects on cancer risk, hormone disruption, and gut microbiome changes, particularly with long-term exposure.