Understanding Endocrine Disruptors: What They Are and Where They Lurk

In today’s world, we are surrounded by countless products that make life easier, more convenient, and even more enjoyable. But hidden within many everyday items are chemicals that could be affecting your health in ways you might not realize. These chemicals, known as endocrine disruptors, interfere with the body’s hormone system and can have long-term effects on health. At Salt + Sage Co, we are committed to creating products that are free from these harmful substances, ensuring a safer and healthier environment for you and your loved ones.

What Are Endocrine Disruptors?

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that can interfere with the endocrine (hormonal) system. The endocrine system is responsible for regulating various bodily functions, including metabolism, growth, development, and reproduction. When certain chemicals mimic or block natural hormones, they can cause a range of health issues, from reproductive disorders to increased cancer risk and metabolic imbalances.

Common Endocrine Disruptors and Their Effects

Some of the most well-known endocrine disruptors include:

• Bisphenol A (BPA): Found in plastics, food can linings, and thermal receipts, BPA mimics estrogen and has been linked to hormonal imbalances, infertility, and developmental issues.

• Phthalates: Commonly used in fragrances, plastics, and personal care products, phthalates can affect reproductive health and have been associated with hormone disruption.

• Parabens: Found in many skincare and cosmetic products, parabens can mimic estrogen and contribute to hormone-related cancers.

• Triclosan: An antibacterial agent found in soaps and toothpaste, triclosan has been shown to interfere with thyroid hormones and may impact immune function.

• Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS): Often found in non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and fast-food packaging, PFAS have been linked to hormone disruption and various health concerns.

• Pesticides: Many pesticides used on conventional produce contain chemicals that can interfere with hormone function and contribute to reproductive and developmental issues.

  
  

Where Are Endocrine Disruptors Found?

These harmful chemicals can be found in many everyday products, including:

• Personal care products: Shampoo, lotion, deodorant, and makeup can contain phthalates, parabens, and other hormone-disrupting chemicals.

  • Cosmetics, Lotions, and Shampoos:

    Parabens, phthalates, and other chemicals are used as preservatives, fragrances, or UV filters, and can be endocrine disruptors. 

  • Sunscreens:

    Some sunscreens contain UV filters that may also be endocrine disruptors.

  • Toothpaste:

    Triclosan, an antibacterial agent, is found in some toothpastes and is also an endocrine disruptor. 

  • Fragrances:

    Yes, many fragrances contain undisclosed chemicals that may be endocrine disruptors. See more information on fragrances below and how Salt + Sage Co takes action to keep our products free of them.

• Plastics and food packaging: BPA and phthalates are often present in plastic containers, food wraps, and canned food linings.

• Cleaning products: Many household cleaners contain synthetic fragrances and preservatives that can disrupt hormones. Triclosan and triclocarban, antibacterial agents found in some cleaning products, are also endocrine disruptors. 

• Non-stick cookware: Teflon and similar coatings contain PFAS, which can leach into food during cooking.

• Furniture and textiles: Flame retardants in furniture, mattresses, and carpets can act as endocrine disruptors.

• Water supply: Contaminants from industrial waste, pesticides, and plastics can end up in drinking water, exposing us to hormone-disrupting chemicals.

• Textiles and Clothing: Perfluorochemicals can be used in textiles and clothing to make them water and stain resistant. 

• Children's Toys: Phthalates are found in some children's toys. 

• Fire Retardants: Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), used in fire retardants, are also endocrine disruptors. 

• Furniture Foam and Carpets: PBDEs are used to make flame retardants for products such as furniture foam and carpet. 

For a list of well known products that have these chemicals click here.

Note: This is a list that is outdated, some manufacturers may have made updates to make the products safer, but to be honest a lot of corners are cut to make the product cheaper to create and thus has chemicals that aren't good for our body.

How to Reduce Your Exposure

The good news is that you can take steps to limit your exposure to endocrine disruptors:

• Choose natural, toxin-free personal care products. Opt for brands like Salt + Sage Co that prioritize clean ingredients.

• Use glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic for food storage.

• Filter your water to reduce contaminants.

• Eat organic when possible to avoid pesticide exposure.

• Opt for clean home cleaning products that don’t contain hormone-disrupting chemicals.

• Fragrances when choosing room sprays, candles and really any product that has fragrance you should ensure that the product is free from phthalates and parabens. (other than companies that use essential oils to scent their products.)

  • I wanted to add a note that we thoroughly research fragrance oil manufacturers and choose companies that make fragrances that are free of phthalates and parabens.

At Salt + Sage Co, we believe in creating products that are safe, effective, and free from harmful chemicals. By making small, conscious choices, you can protect your health and minimize your exposure to endocrine disruptors. Even if Salt + Sage Co is not your product choice we want you to be aware of what's hiding in our big brands products. Awareness is the first step—now it’s time to take action for a healthier future!

Awareness is the first step—now it’s time to take action for a healthier future!

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