How Phthalates Can Impact Hormones

Medical Reviewed By Lucas Rosa

PhD in Molecular Biology

Phthalates are hidden chemicals in everyday products that can disrupt our hormones.

What Are Phthalates?

Phthalates are synthetic chemicals that are commonly used to make plastics more flexible and harder to break. They are often referred to as plasticizers and have been linked with hormonal disruption.

The science is not fully settled yet, but there are many studies that suggest that phthalates are chemicals of concern because of the hormonal disruption that they can cause.

These compounds are found in a wide range of products including personal care products, food packaging, vinyl flooring, adhesives, detergents, lubricating oils, automotive plastics, medical devices, cleaning products, and children's toys.

Their widespread presence in everyday products makes them difficult to avoid.

How Phthalates Enter The Body

Phthalates can enter your body through various pathways. Inhalation of particles containing phthalates is one of the most common ways. When products containing phthalates are used, they can release these chemicals into the air we breathe.

Another significant route of exposure is through skin contact. For example, the use of personal care products with phthalates leads to these chemicals being absorbed into our bodies through skin contact.

Additionally, phthalates can leach into the foods and beverages that we consume. The packaging materials used to contain foods and drinks can leach phthalates on to our foods and drinks which leads to us unconsciously digesting these chemicals.

The Potential Dangers of Phthalates

Phthalates have the potential to be endocrine disruptors. They can interfere with our body's hormonal system. Hormones are essential for our bodies, and slight disruptions can lead to significant health effects.

Phthalates can mimic and block hormones, particularly those involved in reproductive health. This disruption typically involves phthalates binding to hormone receptors or altering the production of hormones.

Exposure to phthalates can cause a variety of hormonal disruptions. In those assigned male at birth, phthalates could reduce testosterone levels which would affect fertility and other aspects of health. In those assigned female at birth, phthalates could disrupt estrogen levels which can affect menstrual cycles and reproductive health.

Phthalates can also disrupt hormones in our thyroid. These hormones play crucial roles in growth, metabolism, and development. The disruption of thyroid hormones can lead to health conditions, disorders, and diseases.

Reducing Your Exposure to Phthalates

While it may be difficult to avoid phthalates completely, there are steps you can take to mitigate your exposure to them.

Opt for 'phthalate-free' products and check the labels of products for ingredients like DEP (diethyl phthalate), DBP (dibutyl phthalate), and DEHP (bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate).

Choose glass, bamboo, or stainless steel materials for food containers, drink containers, and food preparation equipment. Also, wash your hands before eating any meal.

Additionally, ensure that there is good ventilation in your home. Put up air filters in your home to help reduce the amount of phthalates in your home. Regularly dust and vacuum to also reduce your exposure to phthalates.

Being mindful of the products you bring into your home and making informed choices can significantly reduce you and your family's exposure to phthalates.

Conclusion

Phthalates are widespread chemicals that can disrupt our hormone levels and negatively impact our overall health. We can take practical steps to avoid these harmful chemicals, and by doing so you can minimize your exposure to phthalates and boost your hormonal health.

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