Xenohormones are a group of either naturally occurring or artificially created compounds showing hormone-like properties. The most commonly occurring xenohormones are xenoestrogens, which mimic the effects of estrogen.
How does this affect your fertility?
It can disrupt the hormonal system in both men and women and cause birth defects in newborn babies. Xenoestrogens have been shown to contribute to estrogen-dominant conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) and uterine polyps. They also interfere with the male reproductive system and therefore affect sperm quality. Where do we find xenoestrogens?
Plastics - Scientists found that after testing 455 common plastic products that 70% tested positive for estrogenic activity. Once those products were subject to real-world conditions—microwaving or dishwashing—that proportion rose to 95%. In some cases, BPA-free products released chemicals having more endocrine activity than BPA-containing products. BPA (Bisphenol A) is a chemical used in plastic.
Pesticides, herbicides and fungicides derived from petrochemicals
Solvents found in fingernail polish, polish remover, glue and cleaning supplies
All non-organic livestock, which are fed estrogenic drugs to fatten them.
Sunscreen lotions
Personal care products including skin products, fragrances, antiperspirants
When you eat food, the gut has a chance to detoxify chemicals with the help of your liver, but when you apply chemicals to your skin they get absorbed straight into the bloodstream.
Do not use mineral oil products on your body. Mineral oil is made from crude oil, the same stuff we make motor oil. It coats the skin like plastic, clogging the pores. Baby Oil is 100% mineral oil.
Oral contraceptives and HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy)
What you can do?
Plastics
Reduce the use of plastics whenever possible.
Avoid the use of plastic wrap to cover food for storing or microwaving.
Do not microwave food in plastic containers.
Use glass or ceramics whenever possible to store food.
Do not leave plastic containers, especially your drinking water, in the sun.
If a plastic water container has heated up significantly, throw it away.
Food
Choose organic, locally-grown and in-season foods.
Peel non-organic fruits and vegetables or soak in apple cider vinegar/water solution.
Buy hormone-free meats and dairy products to avoid hormones and pesticides.
Household Products
Use chemical-free, biodegradable laundry and household cleaning products.
Choose chlorine-free products and unbleached paper products (i.e. tampons, menstrual pads, toilet paper, paper towel, coffee filters).
Use a chlorine filter on showerheads and filter drinking water.
Do not use pesticides, herbicides or fungicides in your garden.
Personal Care Products
Avoid creams and cosmetics that have toxic chemicals, use natural and organic products instead. (Go to http://www.safecosmetics.org to check ingredients)
Minimize your exposure to nail polish and nail polish removers.
Use naturally based fragrances, such as essential oils, chemical-free soaps and toothpaste.
References:
Most Plastic Products Release Estrogenic Chemicals: A Potential Health Problem That Can Be Solved, Environ Health Perspect. Jul 1, 2011; 119(7): 989–996.m, doi: 10.1289/ehp.1003220Götz F, Thieme S, Dörner G. Female infertility–effect of perinatal xenoestrogen exposure on reproductive functions in animals and humans. Folia
Histochem Cytobiol. 2001;39 Suppl 2:40-3. PubMed PMID: 11820621.
