5 Random Things in Your Household That May Be Disrupting Your Hormones

Your hormones are small but mighty chemical messengers that tell your body’s systems what to do and when.

Even minor disruptions in your hormone levels can throw your systems into chaos and result in physical and mental health issues. Unfortunately, there are many things in your environment that you may not realize are influencing your hormones.

At Salem Women’s Clinic, Inc., our experienced medical team specializes in hormone management services to keep your levels balanced and your body healthy. We offer safe, natural hormone replacement medications to correct deficiencies so you can thrive at every level of health.

Our providers also value the importance of education and offer resources you can use to protect your hormone health. Read more about things in your environment that may interfere with your hormones.

What to know about hormones

Your endocrine system produces hormones that travel through your bloodstream and regulate many major biological processes, including reproduction, growth, and mood.

Because hormones function in small amounts, minor changes in your hormone levels can significantly impact your biological functions and overall health. For instance, fluctuations in a woman’s hormone levels in the days leading up to her period can cause mild to severe symptoms like mood swings, irritability, headaches, and fatigue.

Natural and man-made chemicals interfere with hormone production and the body’s hormone levels. These chemicals are referred to as endocrine disruptors and are associated with various health issues in humans.

Endocrine disruptors are found nearly everywhere, including in items that you use daily. Understanding how certain products affect your hormone levels can help reduce exposure to harmful chemicals that throw your hormone levels out of balance.

Five things around the house that can disrupt your hormones

The chemicals that act as endocrine disruptors can enter your bloodstream through your skin, in the air, and in the foods you eat. Here are some of the most studied chemicals to be aware of to protect your hormone levels:

1. Herbicides

Herbicides are applied to crops to control weeds. Consuming corn, sorghum, and other crops in your diet can expose you to these endocrine-disrupting chemicals.

2. Nonstick cookware

A coating of chemicals known as polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) may be on your nonstick pots and pans.

3. Soy and other plants

Soy contains phytoestrogens, a naturally occurring plant substance that acts like human hormones. Phytoestrogens are also in fruits, grains, beans, vegetables, seeds, and nuts.

4. Plastic packaging

Plastic packaging used on foods, toys, and perfumes may contain phthalates. Cosmetics, aftershave lotion, hair spray, and shampoo may also contain phthalates.

5. Personal care products

Antimicrobial soaps and body washes may contain triclosan, a chemical that reduces bacterial contamination but may also interfere with thyroid function and hormone production.

If you’re worried about your hormone levels or have unusual changes in your physical, mental, or emotional health, contact our medical team to schedule a hormone evaluation. We can discuss your needs for supplemental hormone therapy or other needed treatment.

Call Salem Women’s Clinic, Inc. in Salem, Oregon, today to schedule an appointment or book a consultation online.