Xenoestrogens: what you need to know about these hormone disruptors

Xenoestrogens are not true hormones, but once inside the body, they act as though they are. They bind to oestrogen receptors, interfering with the natural oestrogen in your body and preventing it from functioning as it should. A receptor is a protein that a molecule can attach to, triggering specific processes in the body. Xenoestrogens can also function as anti-oestrogens, blocking the normal activity of the hormone. This interference is known to be harmful to health and may contribute to the development of certain types of cancer.

It is now understood that xenoestrogens are almost ubiquitous. A well-known example is BPA, commonly found in plastics. Do you drink from a plastic bottle throughout the day? If so, you are likely ingesting them. They can also enter the body through makeup containing parabens or via air pollution.

Research indicates that the primary source of xenoestrogens in our bodies is food:

• Pesticide-treated fruits and vegetables
• Milk and meat from animals fed with treated feed
• Food packaged in plastic or cans

💡 Tip number one for avoiding these substances is, unsurprisingly: opt for organic.

If you (often unknowingly) consume significant amounts of xenoestrogens, oestrogen dominance may develop. This condition arises when there is too much oestrogen in the body relative to progesterone. The liver struggles to break down xenoestrogens efficiently, allowing them to accumulate in the body. This disrupts hormonal balance, which is already subject to significant fluctuations during menopause.

An excess of oestrogen can lead to symptoms such as:

• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Reduced libido
• Headaches or migraines
• Heavy periods
• Weight gain and difficulty losing weight
• Tender breasts
• Fatigue
• Water retention
• Abdominal pain and bloating
• Anxiety or mood swings

Xenoestrogens are present in many of the products we use daily, making it nearly impossible to avoid them entirely. However, this is not necessary, as the body has its own detoxification system: the liver.

If the liver becomes overburdened, it may struggle to break down xenoestrogens effectively. This can occur due to exposure to large amounts of hormone-disrupting substances, excessive alcohol consumption, certain medications, or high stress levels. Avoiding these factors can help maintain overall health.

Reducing exposure to xenoestrogens begins with awareness: understanding their effects on the body and identifying where they are found. The following practical tips can help:

• Eat as much fresh and unprocessed food as possible. Choose organic whenever feasible.
• Wash or peel your vegetables. Adding a splash of vinegar to the rinse water can be helpful.
• Limit the use of plastic or canned food containers, as both often contain BPA. Opt for glass or stainless steel alternatives.
• Filter your drinking water.
• Use ceramic cookware instead of non-stick pans.
• Avoid drinking hot beverages from plastic cups.
• Skip air fresheners. For a pleasant scent, choose essential oils. A diffuser with your preferred oil can create a lovely aroma.
• Be selective with cosmetics. Use natural and organic makeup products whenever possible, avoiding parabens.
• Choose sunscreen with a reliable filter. Benzophenone and 4-Methylbenzylidene camphor are known to contain xenoestrogens.
• Many household products contain chemicals. Opt for chemical-free options (read labels carefully), and select unbleached and chlorine-free items such as tampons, toilet paper, and coffee filters.