Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with the body’s hormonal (endocrine) system. Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate growth, metabolism, reproduction, mood, and many other essential functions. Even small exposures can mimic, block, or alter normal hormone signals, leading to imbalance over time.

How They Affect the Body

• Mimic natural hormones (such as estrogen, testosterone, or thyroid hormones), sending false signals.

• Block hormone receptors, preventing real hormones from binding and working correctly.

• Change how hormones are made, broken down, or eliminated, creating long-term imbalances.

• Affect development, especially in infants and children, by altering brain, thyroid, and reproductive function.

Common Endocrine Disruptors

Phthalates• Used in: Vinyl flooring, plastic wraps, shampoos, lotions, air fresheners.• Effect: Interfere with testosterone, estrogen, and thyroid hormones; linked to fertility and developmental concerns.

Bisphenol A (BPA) and Related Compounds (BPS, BPF)• Found in: Plastic bottles, food containers, can linings, store receipts.• Effect: Mimic estrogen, disrupt reproductive hormones, affect metabolism.• Tip: Avoid microwaving food in plastic and choose BPA-free or glass containers.

Triclosan• Used in: Antibacterial soaps, toothpaste, cleaning sprays (many companies have removed it).• Effect: Alters thyroid hormones, may contribute to antibiotic resistance.• Tip: Choose products labeled triclosan-free.

Parabens• Used in: Cosmetics, lotions, processed foods.• Effect: Weakly mimic estrogen, may build up in tissues with repeated exposure.• Tip: Look for paraben-free labels.

Fragrances• Found in: Perfumes, air fresheners, detergents, candles, cleaning products. Effect: Often contain hidden phthalates or other hormone disruptors. Tip: Choose fragrance-free or unscented products.

Plastics and Packaging Found in: Food storage containers, water bottles, cling wrap.• Tip: Zip-top bags: Safe for cold storage only—do not heat or microwave. 

Large plastic water jugs: Often made of polycarbonate plastics that can release BPA-like compounds, especially with heat or sunlight. Store in a cool area or use stainless steel or BPA-free containers.

Aluminum Cans• Most cans are lined with BPA-based coatings.• Effect: Lining can leach into food or drinks, especially acidic or heat-processed products.•

Tip: Choose beverages or foods in glass jars, boxes, or cans labeled BPA-free.

Pesticides and Herbicides• Used on: Lawns, crops, household pest control.• Effect: Disrupt estrogen, androgen, and thyroid balance; linked to reproductive and immune changes.• Tip: Wash produce thoroughly and buy organic when possible.

Flame Retardants and Non-stick Coatings (PFAS, Teflon)• Found in: Furniture foam, carpeting, cookware, food packaging.• Effect: Interfere with thyroid and immune function.• Tip: Choose stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic cookware instead of non-stick.

How to Reduce Exposure

• Use glass, stainless steel, or BPA-free containers for food and drinks.

• Avoid heating food in plastic or storing hot items in plastic containers.

• Choose fragrance-free, paraben-free, and triclosan-free products.

• Eat fresh, whole foods and limit processed or canned items.

• Filter tap water with a carbon or reverse-osmosis filter.

• Dust and vacuum regularly—many endocrine disruptors collect in household dust.

Why It Matters

Endocrine disruptors are linked to:

• Hormonal imbalance

• Fertility and reproductive problems

• Thyroid disorders

• Obesity and insulin resistance

• Early puberty and developmental concerns

• Certain hormone-related cancers