SOURCES OF XENOESTROGENS

Excess estrogen (a reproductive system hormone) is a common cause of hormone related complaints in women, and is also taking a major toll on our environment. But where do all these estrogens come from?

The term "xenoestrogens" means "foreign estrogens", used to describe estrogen disrupters and sources other than those formed naturally by our bodies.

These sources include: 

1. Pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides (wash your food well with a biodegradable non-toxic solution if not organic)
2. Soft plastic goods including Tupperware, water bottles, plastic wrap (they leach xenoestrogens into the environment as well as into food and water, and is worsened when heated)
3. Cosmetics and creams that have toxic and estrogenic ingredients such as parabens and stearalkonium chloride
4. Nail polish and nail polish removers
5. Surfactants found in many condoms and lubricants 
6. New carpet (it's off gas of noxious fumes)
7. Fluoride
8. Fabric softeners 
9. Gas emitted from copiers and printers, carpets, fiberboards, etc.
10. Animal maneuver is one of the largest environmental contributors.

You can help mitigate the effects of exposure to these xenoestrogens by limiting your consumption of processed foods, trying to eat as organic as possible, having at least one serving of cruciferous vegetables per day (ie: cauliflower, kale, cabbage, broccoli), using glass or stainless steel water bottles and food storage, and including fibre in your diet.

To learn more about how you to optimize your diet and lifestyle, or help to find balance in your hormones, please feel free to reach out with any questions or if you are located in Toronto, book an appointment with me.

Dr. Cristina Allen ND
Naturopathic Doctor