DANGERS OF EDC’s

Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC’s) lurk in everything from cleaning products to those much desired fragrances. Synthetic chemicals in products like plastics and fragrances can mimic hormones and interfere and disrupt the delicate endocrine dance. We are exposed to these chemicals daily, and we are especially vulnerable to them during phases of accelerated development. Weight gain and obesity are also linked strongly to EDC’s. So what can we done?

WASH YOUR HANDS - This is probably the most effective recommendation even in this time of the pandemic. Using antibacterial soaps is recommended.

DUST AND VACUUM OFTEN - Even though they are linked to hormone disruption, flame retardant chemicals are used in many common household products. Research indicates that they escape from electronics, couches, and baby products that collect in your household dust. Regular vacuuming is truly helpful.

TURN UP YOUR NOSE AT FRAGRANCES - Fragrance on a label indicates a mix potentially hundreds of ingredients, and the exact formulas of most companies claim are trade secrets. Choose fragrance - free creams, cleaning products and laundry detergents.

WATCH WHAT YOU EAT - Certain pesticides have been linked to hormone disruption. Eat as much organic foods as possible and available. As a general rule of thumb, try to eat food that is close to whole as possible. Avoid packaging when you cans.

FILTER TAP WATER - Drinking tap water out of a glass will reduce your exposure to BPA and other chemicals in cans and plastic bottles. Running you tap water through an NSF-certified water filter can, when properly installed and maintained, decrease the level of some endocrine - disrupting chemicals.

KIDS COSMETICS - Children do not need cosmetics, and yet there is a glut of kid-related lotions and potions, bubbles and polishes, glitters and glosses on the market. These contain a number of EDC’s and chemicals linked to cancer and asthma. Just say no to these for kids.

Remember that your health is cheap but illness is expensive.