Toxic Burden: Hormonal and Metabolic Disruption from Environmental Toxins

Chemicals in the environment, called endocrine disruptors, can interact with and change the way our body’s hormones naturally function.

Hormone disruption can manifest in a variety of signs and symptoms including:

• Obesity and difficulty losing weight.
• Sleep disturbances.
• Elevated blood sugar.
• Thyroid dysfunction.
• Dysregulated cortisol levels.
• Menstrual irregularities (Endometriosis, PCOS).

Where do “Endocrine Disruptors” come from?

Toxins, xenoestrogens, and other chemicals come from a variety of sources:

• Plastic food and beverage containers.
• The lining of canned foods.
• Non-organic foods.
• Highly processed foods.

What are Xenoestrogens?

Xenoestrogens are synthetic natural compounds that imitate estrogens, often exerting a strong effect on estrogen receptors.

Xenoestrogens include:

• PBCs.
• BPAs.
• Phalates.

How can you reduce your exposure to endocrine disruptors?

• Don’t microwave plastic containers.
• Use natural make-up and skincare products.
• Drink filtered water.
• Buy organic whenever possible.
• Avoid GMO foods.
• Eliminate/Reduce the consumption of foods from cans.

For most of us, it is impossible to completely eliminate exposure to chemicals that disrupt our metabolism and hormones.

In addition to reducing exposure, there are various actions you can take to eliminate toxic burden from your body.

How can you support the elimination of toxins from your body?

• Seek naturopathic assessment and treatment.
• Support the liver – our liver is responsible for processing toxic compounds. Targeted herbal and nutritional treatment can effectively enhance liver function.
• Increase fibre – fibre from food and supplements prevents the absorption of toxins from our gut.