12 tips for avoiding endocrine disrupting chemicals

Hormones are more than just chemicals that make us feel sad when we’re going through puberty or loopy when we’re falling in love. They’re precise messages that travel between our organs and glands, dictating everything from when we feel sleepy to how easily we digest food. This intricate network is called the endocrine system, and it’s highly effective at keeping us healthy and alive—when it runs without disruption.

What are endocrine disruptors?

Endocrine disrupting chemicals, which are also called EDCs or endocrine disruptors, are chemicals that interfere with or mimic our body’s hormones. You can find them in cosmetics, furniture, cookware, and plastic food and drink containers. Studies have linked exposure to endocrine disruptors with a range of health effects, like infertility, impaired brain development, diabetes, and cancer.

While it’s hard to know what level of exposure to EDCs is harmful, we do know that people come into contact with EDCs in many different products—and these exposures add up. Scientists and health professionals recommend limiting your exposure to endocrine disruptors as much as possible.

Common EDCs and where to find them

BPA, or bisphenol A, is a chemical used to increase the durability of plastic. It can be found in many plastic products, like food containers, water bottles, and even the liners of food and beverage cans.

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are used to make products non-stick or grease resistant, and they can be found in items such as cookware, clothing, and dental floss. PFAS have also been detected in drinking water. They are sometimes called “forever chemicals” because of their widespread use and the fact that they don’t break down easily.

Parabens are a type of preservative and are commonly found in hair products and lotions.

Phthalates are used to soften plastics and are found in vinyl products such as shower curtains, flooring, and mattress covers. They’re also found in personal care products and fragrances.

Triclosan is a common ingredient in antibacterial, antimicrobial, and odor-resistant products.

Some surprising facts about endocrine disruptors

• Labels can lie. Manufacturers don’t always have to disclose the presence of EDCs in their products. The FDA makes labeling exceptions for “trade secrets,” which means that companies can choose not to reveal the exact chemicals in certain proprietary blends (such as, say, the “fragrance” or “parfum” in your shampoo).
• EDCs aren’t only in synthetic stuff. Research suggests that some essential oils, like lavender and tea-tree oil, may have endocrine-disrupting properties.
• Not everyone is exposed equally. National biomonitoring data shows that Black women have higher levels of phthalates and parabens in their bodies than white women. This is likely linked to societal pressure to conform to Western beauty standards: Black women are more likely to use products like skin lightening creams and hair smoothing products, which often contain endocrine disruptors, and they also tend to use a greater number of personal care products than other groups.

Tips to avoid endocrine disruptors

1. Phase out non-stick pans. Kicking the non-stick habit isn’t as hard as it seems: Just soak regular steel pans and scrub with baking soda to remove stubborn food residue.

2. Make popcorn in a pot on the stove, instead of using microwave popcorn. The linings of microwave popcorn bags can contain high levels of PFAS.

3. Don’t store takeout leftovers in their containers, which are often plastic or lined cardboard. Use glass or metal containers instead.

4. Eat more fresh and organic foods. A Silent Spring study found levels of BPA and phthalates (which are common in food packaging) declined by more than half when people switched to a fresh food diet after just three days!

5. Peel or wash fruits and veggies. Many pesticides are endocrine disruptors.

6. Buy nylon or silk dental floss that is either uncoated or coated in natural wax. PFAS have been found in some brands of dental floss, like Oral-B Glide.

7. Cut back on your use of personal care products, like cosmetics and lotions, and avoid products containing parabens, phthalates, and fragrance.

8. Steer clear of antibacterial kitchen or office supplies. Many contain triclosan.

9. Swap out chemical household cleaners for DIY alternatives such as vinegar and baking soda.

10. Avoid clothing advertised as stain-resistant. This term usually indicates the presence of PFAS.

11. Contact your legislators and advocate for more protective legislation on toxic chemicals. It can make a difference. Under California’s Proposition 65, for instance, companies have been switching out toxic product ingredients and people’s exposures have declined.

12. Spread the word! When we partnered with influencers to share information about toxic chemicals on social media, 43% of their followers said they would start avoiding harmful chemicals in products. Consider sharing information about EDCs with your networks too! 

Finally, keep this in mind: The choices you make count! When you lower your exposure to endocrine disruptors, you lower your risk of disease. Even following a few of these simple tips can make a difference.