Xenoestrogens refers to foreign estrogen-like chemicals that mimic the effects of estrogen in the body (“xeno” = foreign). Estrogen is normally balanced with progesterone and other hormones, and has a number of effects on the body including:
- growth of the endometrium (lining of the uterus)
- stimulation of breast cells
- increased body fat
- helping maintain salt and fluid balance
- contributes to libido
- helps maintain mineral balance
- influences proper bone density
There are over 70,000 chemicals that are registered and approved for use that have hormone-disrupting actions. Xenoestrogens are found in a number of daily use products including the lining of tin cans (BPA), plastics (the softer the plastic, the more absorbable the xenoestrogen), dryer sheets, chemicals labelled “fragrance” or “perfume” (check your make-up, detergents, shampoos and soaps), pesticides and herbicides, dry cleaning chemicals, and bleached feminine hygiene products . The abundance of these chemicals in our environment burdens the body’s detoxification mechanisms and organs (mainly the liver) causing accumulation of these chemicals in fat tissue (including breast tissue) and leads to “estrogen-dominant” conditions and symptoms:
- endometriosis
- fibrocystic breasts
- weight gain
- mood imbalances including depression and anxiety
- headaches and migraines
- sleep disruptions and insomnia
- poor thyroid hormone function
- blood sugar dysregulation
- increased risk of blood clots
- increased risk of breast and prostate cancers
- increased risk of gall bladder disease
- hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness
- poor memory
Options for minimizing exposure include:
- using glass or stainless steel water bottles
- using glass food containers to store food
- buying organic foods as much as possible (see EWG’s dirty dozen and clean fifteen)
- wash your fruits and vegetables well with water and rub dry – this removes a large amount of chemicals
- avoid “fragrance”-added products (read the labels of detergents, shampoos, soaps, cosmetics etc)
- avoid microwaving food in plastic containers or with plastic wrap – microwaving causes the plastic to heat and readily transfers xenoestrogens into foods
- Use skin products that are low in toxins and xenoestrogens: Aubrey Organics, Green Beaver, Weleda, Druide, Gabriel Cosmetics, and the Rocky Mountain Soap Company
Consulting with a naturopathic physician is important if you are experiencing symptoms of excess estrogen. An individualized detoxification program that includes diet and basic supplementation will help to balance hormone levels.
dr jenny schmidt-white, naturopathic doctor 