LET ME INTRODUCE YOU TO XENOESTROGENS

Xenoestrogens are synthetic or natural substances that mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. These substances can be found in a variety of everyday products and are known to have negative impacts on women, especially those in menopause. Let me show you how xenoestrogens affect women in menopause and where we find them.

EFFECTS OF XENOESTROGENS ON WOMEN IN MENOPAUSE

The American National Institute for Environmental Sciences (NIEHS) shows various ways in which these external hormones can bother us:

These chemicals imitate hormones like estrogens, androgens (testosterone), and thyroid hormones. This can lead to excessive stimulation.

They attach to hormone receptors in cells, preventing the proper hormone from binding. This disrupts normal signals and prevents the body from functioning properly.

They disrupt the production or control of natural hormones or their receptors by altering hormone metabolism in the liver, among other mechanisms.

Exposure to xenoestrogens has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease in menopausal women.

“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, 

we borrow it from our children.” – Native American Proverb

SOURCES OF XENOESTROGENS

Xenoestrogens can be found in a variety of everyday products, including plastics, pesticides, and personal care products.

• Bisphenol A (BPA) and Bisphenol S (BPS), which are found in some plastic products, including water bottles, food containers, and can linings.
• Phthalates, which are used as plasticizers in many products, including vinyl flooring, shower curtains, and personal care products like perfume and nail polish.
• Parabens, which are used as preservatives in personal care products and cosmetics, including lotions, shampoos, and makeup.
• Triclosan, which is an antimicrobial agent found in some soaps, toothpaste, and cleaning products.
• Perfluorinated compounds (PFCs), which are used in non-stick cookware and stain-resistant products, including some food packaging.
• Sulfates, including SLES and SLS, can cause skin and eye irritation or allergies.
• Dioxins can mimic estrogen but are not xenoestrogens. They’re toxic chemicalsreleased into the environment from industrial processes like waste incineration and paper bleaching, causing disruption to the immune and endocrine systems, cancer, and reproductive problems.

WAYS TO REDUCE EXPOSURE TO XENOESTROGENS

According to recent surveys, up to 23 million tons of plastic waste end up in the world’s waterways every year, which is roughly the equivalent of two truckloads per minute. Here are a few specific ideas and tips on how you can help ease that burden.

HOW CAN I AVOID XENOESTROGENS IN BATHROOM AND KITCHEN?

Use solid products instead of liquid ones

Opt for solid soap and care products that are available unpackaged in health food stores.

Prefer utensils made from sustainable materials

Choose metal, porcelain, or wood soap dishes and toothbrush cups over plastic for durability and aesthetics. Look for combs and brushes made from natural materials.

Walk the way to the bulk store

Visit bulk stores for plastic-free toilet paper: choose unpackaged rolls or bamboo/wastepaper alternatives similarly priced to conventional products.

They also offer all types of unwrapped grains, legumes, spices or detergents.

Use good quality towels

Choose certified, high-quality towels to reduce microplastic release and protect the environment. They are more sustainable and durable despite being more expensive.

Avoid microplastics as an ingredient

Avoid microplastics in cosmetics. Use the CodeCheck  or Yuka app to identify them. Choose certified organic products.

Buy razors made from natural materials

Choose razors made of natural materials like stainless steel or wood to reduce plastic waste. Use sustainable shaving soap to avoid tin waste.

Use universal cleaning agents

Avoid purchasing many different cleaning agents as they create plastic waste. Use vinegar cleaner mixed with lemon to eliminate limescale and soap stains.

Don’t use plastic containers

Avoid heating food in plastic containers, as this can cause the release of xenoestrogens. Don’t buy beverages or water in plastic bottles. Use glass containers instead.

Avoid processed foods

Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and avoid processed foods, which often contain xenoestrogens as food additives. Choose organic fruit and vegetables whenever you can.

Choose hormone-free meat and dairy products

Choose hormone-free meat and dairy to reduce exposure to xenoestrogens – synthetic compounds that mimic estrogen and are linked to health issues. This option supports sustainable and healthy farming practices.

Change to sustainable wrapping materials

Switch aluminum foil or plastic wrap for reusable beeswax wraps.

WHAT CAN I DO TO GET RID OF XENOESTROGENS IN MY BODY?

SUPPORT YOUR LIVER’S DETOX PROCESS

• Start the day with a glass of lukewarm water and the juice of half a lemon. This gets your liver’s detoxification process going.
• Limit consumption of alcohol and caffeinated beverages.
• Detox regularly as Xenoestrogens and other toxins can accumulate in the body over time, and regular detoxing can help flush them out. I recommend at least two detox diets per year.
• Drink at least 8 glasses of water throughout the day
• Try intermittent fasting as it can help reduce the accumulation of fat in the liver, which can lead to liver damage and disease.

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY, BALANCED DIET

A healthy diet that is low in salt and sugar, but rich in nutrients, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and lean proteins, can support the liver’s natural detoxification processes and help it function optimally

MOVE THOSE HIPS AND DO REGULAR EXERCISE

Incorporating regular exercise can also support the body’s natural detoxification processes. Exercise promotes lymphatic drainage, which is the process by which toxins and waste are removed from the body’s tissues.

VISIT THE SAUNA REGULARLY

Sweat contains toxins that are eliminated from the body through the skin. Sweating can help to flush out these toxins.

So, ladies, let’s give xenoestrogens the boot! We don’t need their negative effects messing with our hormones, increasing our risk of breast cancer, weakening our bones, and causing heart problems. It’s time to take charge of our health and say “no thank you” to these pesky little compounds. Let’s reduce our exposure to xenoestrogens and show our bodies some love, so we can thrive during this phase of life!

Take Care,

Tara