In this blog, find out what you should know about the endocrine system and why are endocrine disruptors so dangerous. What are the effects of endocrine disruptors on humans and how to take care of your endocrine system with list of endocrine disruptors to avoid and step you can put in place today.

Where endocrine glands are located?

Endocrine glands are located throughout the body, including the brain, neck, chest, abdomen, and reproductive organs.

For example the throat chakra which endocrine gland is located at the bottom of the neck, the thyroid also contribute to your body system.

The primary endocrine organs consist of:

1. Hypothalamus

2. Pituitary Gland

3. Thyroid Gland

4. Parathyroid Glands

5. Adrenal Glands

6. Pancreas

7. Gonads (Ovaries in females, Testes in males)

How endocrine glands are regulated?

Together, these organs preserve equilibrium and guarantee our body operates at its best. Nevertheless, the endocrine system can be disrupted when exposed to dangerous substances, known as endocrine disruptors, altering our hormones which can result in major health issues like cancer.

Why Would Endocrinology Be Called Upon Me?

If you have symptoms of hormonal imbalances, such as fatigue, mood swings, unexplained weight gain or loss, reproductive problems, or other suspected endocrine disorders relating to endocrine hormones like diabetes, thyroid issues or endocrine breast cancer, you may be referred to an endocrinologist.

There are a few ways to make an endocrine referral, including using the NHS e-Referral Service, contacting the department directly.

The risk of getting cancer, including breast cancer, can be greatly increased by endocrine disruptors. These substances have the ability to change estrogen levels, which can cause cells in breast tissue to grow abnormally.

Chemicals known as "endocrine disruptors" mimic, block, or modify the production of hormones in order to impede the endocrine system's normal functioning: plastics, cosmetics, pesticides, and even food packaging contain these chemicals. Human endocrine disruptor cause hormonal changes that can impact:

• Reproductive system with issues, like infertility, impotence

• Issues with children's development

• Higher risk of cancers linked to hormones, such as prostate and breast cancer

• Thyroid disease and disorders

• Gaining weight and metabolic disorders

Can endocrine disorders be cured?

Some disorders can be cured but other can only be managed after damages already have been caused.

Putting in place the following actions can help you to transition to natural living therefore lowering exposure to endocrine perturbators:

• Stainless steel is safe to use in cooking, particularly when preparing acidic foods, as it is long-lasting and non-reactive.

• Cast iron is safe to use for high-heat cooking and is naturally non-stick when seasoned. It also adds iron to your diet.

• Use of a premium water filter and drink electrolytes.

• High vibration Diet of Organic food: To preserve hormonal balance, include whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

• Regular Exercise: Exercise increases insulin sensitivity and aids hormone regulation.

• Enough quality Sleep: 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night are recommended as they are essential for hormone regulation.

• Stress management: Prolonged stress causes imbalances by interfering with the production of hormones.

• Non-toxic cleaning products for less chemicals.

  Maintaining your general health depends on taking good care of your endocrine system.

Food is a major source of endocrine disruptors, so to safeguard your endocrine system and general health avoid endocrine disruptor exposure in the kitchen.

• Nonstick Teflon (PTFE)-coated cookware: Teflon when heated, can release toxic chemicals that can interfere with hormones known as endocrine disruptor perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)

• Cooking oil temperature neglect: Certain oils when heated at high temperatures start to change properties and become toxic.

• Aluminum cookware: Containers aluminum serveware can leach aluminum, especially in acidic dishes, which has been connected to neurotoxicity and other health issues.

• Processed food: Preservatives, additives, chemicals and pesticides can interfere with hormones normal functions so minimise exposure as much as possible.

• Plastic food containers: They can release dangerous chemicals like BPA (bisphenol A) when heated.

• Bottled Water and tap water: Water in plastic bottle is called ‘ dead water’ as it stays stagnant until bought. Tap water contain substances including pollutants and chemicals that may be present and disrupt hormones.

• Cleaning Supplies: We find many endocrine disruptors in cosmetics and cleaning products as their formulas are often composed of artificial perfumes and chemicals.

Endocrine disruptors food list

• Meat, fish, eggs, and milk: These foods can accumulate lipophilic compounds which are EDCs. 

• Tea and coffee: Those drinks can contain pesticide residues, which are EDCs. 

• Soy foods: These foods contain phytoestrogens, which are naturally occurring substances that can mimic or inhibit estrogen therefore altering our hormonal balance. 

• Cabbage, sprouts, and beer and wine: These foods also contain phytoestrogens potentially altering endocrine hormonal balance. 

Other chemical foods or processed food such as artificial sweeteners, preservatives, fungicides and added sugars (especially high-fructose corn syrup) may contain obesogens, which are a type of EDC:

Which Endocrine Disorder Will Be Most Common in 2024?

Diabetes continues to be the most prevalent endocrine condition worldwide. But by 2024, the prevalence of thyroid disorders is causing concern, especially in areas where exposure to endocrine disruptors or iodine deficiency is common.

Endocrine for diabetes remain a concern as high blood sugar levels result from this condition; Without endocrine system functioning properly the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin or the body develops a resistance to it.

In summary, protecting your endocrine system requires being aware of the risks associated with endocrine disruptors and taking precautions to reduce exposure.

If you're worried about how endocrine disruptors may affect your health, consult your doctor or health care provider. You can also learn more about by reading the endocrine journal, a monthly peer-reviewed medical journal published by The Japan Endocrine Society, covering endocrinology and diverse endocrine therapy.

You can also start to minimise chemical exposure, use natural products in the kitchen and other areas of your house, steer clear of plastics and choose organic food.

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