Endocrine Disruptors & Thyroid Health
In our modern world, we are constantly exposed to a myriad of chemicals and pollutants that can impact our health in ways we are further beginning to understand. One significant concern is the potential link between endocrine disruptors and thyroid health. The endocrine system (aka our hormonal system) plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, and disruptions to this system can have profound effects, particularly on the thyroid gland.
Understanding Endocrine Disruptors
Endocrine disruptors are substances that interfere with the body's endocrine system, which includes glands such as the thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary glands. These disruptors can mimic or block hormones, leading to imbalances in the endocrine system's normal functioning. Common sources of endocrine disruptors include certain chemicals found in plastics, pesticides, personal care products, many pharmaceutical products, and even our daily water supply.
The Thyroid's Vital Role
The thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped organ located in the neck, produces hormones crucial for regulating metabolism, energy levels, and overall growth and development. The two primary hormones produced by the thyroid are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Endocrine disruptors, including certain pesticides, can interfere with the synthesis of thyroid hormones. This interference may occur at various stages of hormone production, including the conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3), the active form of the hormone. Disruption in this process can result in inadequate levels of thyroid hormones circulating in the body and hypothyroidism.
Endocrine Disruptors and Thyroid Disruption
How do these endocrine disruptors specifically impact the thyroid?
Iodine Displacement: Certain endocrine disruptors, such as perchlorate found in some fertilizers and drinking water, can interfere with iodine absorption. Iodine is a key component of thyroid hormones, and its displacement can disrupt thyroid function.
Bisphenols and Phthalates: Commonly found in plastics, these chemicals have been associated with altered thyroid hormone levels. These compounds can mimic the action of estrogen in the body as well. This estrogenic activity may lead to disturbances in the endocrine system, affecting the regulation of thyroid hormones. Studies suggest that exposure to these chemicals may be associated with altered thyroid hormone levels. They can enter the body through food packaging, water bottles, and personal care products.
Pesticides: Some pesticides contain compounds that can disrupt thyroid function. Exposure to these chemicals, often found on conventionally grown produce, may contribute to thyroid imbalances.
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs): Flame retardants, specifically PBDEs used in furniture and electronics, have been linked to thyroid disruption. PBDEs can interfere with thyroid hormone receptors, affecting the binding and action of thyroid hormones in target tissues. Prolonged exposure to PBDEs has been associated with decreased thyroid dysfunction.
Thyroid Cancer Risk: Some studies suggest a potential link between exposure to certain endocrine disruptors and an increased risk of thyroid cancer through the accumulation of chemicals causing abnormal thyroid cell growth and proliferation.
Protecting Your Thyroid Health
There are many different ways to protect yourself from these harmful chemicals and substances to support your overall thyroid function! Below are some of our favorite ways we support our thyroid health daily.
Choose Organic: Opt for organic produce to reduce exposure to pesticides. Organic farming practices typically minimize the use of synthetic chemicals.
Mindful and Informed Product Selection: Select personal care and household products that are free from endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Look for products labeled as phthalate-free and paraben-free. Great news- we have a whole list of products you can find here!
Water Filtration: Water can be full of endocrine disruptors which can negatively impact health outcomes. It may be beneficial to invest in a water filtration system to reduce exposure to contaminants in drinking water, such as perchlorate. This is a great brand!
Avoid Plastics: Ladies, if you can do anything, please ditch the plastic! Minimize the use of plastic containers, especially those with recycling codes 3 (phthalates) and 7 (may contain bisphenols). Get rid of those plastic water bottles and instead try out SuperSparrow (it’s better for your thyroid and the environment!). When it comes to food storage and cooking, opt for glass or stainless steel containers. Do not reheat leftovers in plastics!
Regular Monitoring: If you suspect thyroid issues or have a family history of thyroid disorders, consider asking your PCP for a full thyroid panel including TSH, Free T3, Total T3, Free T4, Total T4, Reverse T3, and Thyroid Antibodies.
If you are looking to learn more about your personal exposures to endocrine disruptors and how they are impacting your thyroid health, take a peek at our hormonal health snapshot program to receive personalized testing and guidance catered to your individual needs!
