Navigating the Endocrine Disruptor Jungle: Understanding and Avoiding the Sneaky Culprits

Endocrine disruptors...perhaps you have heard of them, but you aren't quite sure what they are. Or perhaps you're dealing with hormone challenges, but you're not sure why. 

 If either of those are you, let's chat. This is an important topic because endocrine disruptors can mess with our hormones without us even knowing it. Today, I'm going to delve into what these sneaky troublemakers are, why they're a bit of a problem, and how we can dodge their unwanted advances.

So, What in the World are Endocrine Disruptors?

Think of your endocrine system as your body's personal messaging system. It's responsible for hormones – those chemical messengers that tell our organs and tissues what's what. Endocrine disruptors are like the uninvited guests at this hormone party. They're chemicals that can interfere with the normal functioning of your endocrine system, throwing your hormones into a bit of a tizzy.

Why Should We Care?

Our hormones are like the conductors of an orchestra, ensuring everything plays in harmony. When endocrine disruptors mess with this symphony, it can lead to all sorts of health issues. We're talking about causing challenges in reproductive health, metabolism, immune function, and even an increased risk of certain cancers. Not exactly the VIP section of the party, right?

These chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, mimic or block hormones, potentially leading to fertility challenges, menstrual irregularities, and increased risk of breast and ovarian cancers. Exposure during critical periods like pregnancy can harm fetal development, affecting the child's health later in life. Endocrine disruptors are an issue for everyone, but especially when it comes to women's health.

Identifying the Sneaky Culprits: Where Do They Hide?

Endocrine disruptors are stealthy chemicals that can be found in many common places in modern life. Here are a few of the ones to pay attention to, and where they hide:

BPA (Bisphenol-A): Found in plastic containers, canned goods, and even on some receipts. (This is why we always recommend you use a BPA-free bucket or stainless steel pot as a base for your yoni steam seat (more on this below).

Phthalates: Sneakily hiding in fragrances, cosmetics, and certain plastics.

Parabens: Often lurking in personal care products like lotions, shampoos, and makeup.
Pesticides: They may be on your fruits and veggies, so it's essential to opt for organic when possible.

Dioxins: Found in some industrial processes and can make their way into our food supply, especially in animal products.

A Girl's Guide to Avoidance (of the culprits, that is)..

Now, the good news is that we're not defenseless against these disruptors. Here's how we can limit our exposure:

Choose Glass Over Plastic: Opt for glass containers whenever possible, especially for food storage and heating.

Read Labels Like a Pro: Scan your beauty and personal care products for phthalate, paraben, and fragrance-free options.
Go Organic: When it comes to fruits, veggies, and even meat and dairy, choosing organic can significantly reduce your exposure to pesticides and other nasties.
Ditch the Non-Stick Cookware: Swap out non-stick pans for stainless steel or cast iron. It's not just better for your hormones; it's also better for perfecting that pancake flip.
Filter Your Water: Invest in a good water filter to reduce the presence of contaminants like BPA and other chemicals.
DIY Cleaning Products: Whip up your own cleaning concoctions with simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda. It's not only budget-friendly but also disruptor-unfriendly.
Be a Conscious Consumer: Stay informed about the products you bring into your home. Check for certifications like "BPA-free" or "Phthalate-free."

Choose the Correct Yoni Steaming Base: Our simple Yoni Steam Seat is intended to be placed over a base such as a food-grade (BPA-free!) 5-gallon pail or 20 Quart or 44 Quart stainless steel pot. Inside the base, you will carefully place a stainless steel or glass bowl containing your warm yoni steam infusion. Never place your infusion or steam inside of regular plastic. 

There you have it – a crash course on endocrine disruptors and how to give them the boot. Trust me, your hormones will thank you.