There are many man made chemicals that can disturb the hormonal system within our bodies that we are exposed to on a daily basis. Some of them come from fuel, pesticides, cleaning agents, and plastics. We usually don’t think about all the synthetic chemicals that have given us an easier, more convenient lifestyle, but they also have the ability to create a very unhealthy environment for ourselves and our children.
Chemicals that we are exposed to are called “hormone disrupting chemicals” because they mimic hormones and are not easily broken down by the body. They remain and can accumulate within our fatty tissues and, as a result, can be difficult to eliminate from our bodies. A women’s fatty tissue is concentrated in the breasts, ovaries and placenta during fetal development. However, fatty tissue is also found in the brain and used in our bodies as padding and insulation. Because chemicals are not stopped by the placental barrier, there are certain chemical compounds called hormone disruptors that are being transferred from mother to infant. Hormone disruptors can carry the wrong message to the cell and can wreak havoc on a competent, effective body.
When our hormones are out of balance they can do more then urge us to eat a tub of ice cream or cry during a commercial. Hormonal imbalance can contribute to diseases like endometriosis, breast or prostate cancer, lowered sperm counts and our ability to fight off disease.
There are many things we can do to decrease our exposure to harmful toxins such as:
• Eat organic when ever possible, especially high fat foods like meat, butter and cheese. Find your local farmers market, eat organics that are in season, and have a wide variety of colours and flavours.
• Eat a diet low in processes, hydrogenated, and animal fats. Include good fats such as olive, sesame, walnut, and flaxseed oils. Organic oils are the best choice.
• Buy natural shampoos, pure natural soaps, creams and oils from your local health food store. Extra virgin coconut oil is an excellent way to stir fry your veggies or moisturizes your dry skin.
• Don’t use chemicals in the garden – there are many natural alternatives. Check with your local gardeners and ask for their organic fixes.
• Use natural cleaning supplies such as lemon or white vinegar which is great as a disinfectant and / or grease remover; or salt and baking soda for scrubbing and removing tea stains.
• Don’t microwave foods in plastic and try not to store foods in plastic or aluminum foil – use glass containers.
• While breastfeeding do not go on a diet to lose weight – a recommendation form the World Health Organization. The weight will balance over time naturally and enhancing weight loss can stir up many toxins in your body and can be expressed into your breast milk.
• Consult with a holistic nutritionist to find alternatives to harmful chemicals and expelling toxins from your body.
Information and education on chemicals used in our products can be overwhelming, however knowing how and what to avoid can make a difference in your health, your children’s health and the health of our planet. Taking little steps day by day such as introducing organic foods and purchasing less plastic can become routine and easily integrated into your lifestyle.
