Fertility & Preconception

How to Balance Hormones: Toxin Exposure

by NaturoBest Naturopath Team on Dec 20, 2023

how to balance hormones

 

Toxic substances can influence our overall health, and many people are surprised to learn how strongly they can affect hormone balance. Reducing unnecessary exposure and supporting the body’s natural detoxification pathways can help promote hormonal harmony. Alongside practical lifestyle changes, our Detox & Liver Support formula can support natural detoxification processes and healthy liver function as part of a low-tox lifestyle.

 

What You Need to Know About Toxin Exposure and Hormones

  • Xenoestrogens are endocrine-disrupting compounds that mimic oestrogen in the body, contributing to hormone imbalance symptoms.
  • We are often exposed to toxins through everyday products without realising it.
  • Simple product swaps can help reduce this exposure.
  • High-quality herbal medicine can support the body’s natural detoxification processes.

 

What Are Xenoestrogens?

Xenoestrogens are hormone-disrupting chemicals that imitate oestrogen in the body. These synthetic industrial compounds are found in many household products, and studies have shown they may be linked with hormone-related conditions. They can influence oestrogen receptors, disrupting the body’s normal hormonal signalling.

Examples of industrial chemicals that act as xenoestrogens include:

  • Plastics such as bisphenol A (BPA)
  • Plasticisers like phthalates
  • Flame retardants including PBDEs
  • Pesticides such as DDT
  • Pharmaceutical agents like DES

These compounds are widely used, making awareness and avoidance important parts of supporting hormone balance.

 

Common Sources of Toxins:

Daily habits and household items are often the biggest contributors to toxin exposure.

Fragrances

Synthetic fragrances in diffusers, car fresheners, room sprays, perfumes, and candles may contain chemicals that influence hormone activity.

Cookware

Non-stick cookware is a common source of toxins. Many non-stick coatings contain PFAS, which studies suggest may affect the production of progesterone and oestrogen in women of reproductive age.

Food Storage

Heating or cooking food in plastic containers can expose you to xenoestrogens. Even BPA-free plastics may contain other hormone-disrupting chemicals.
Plastic drink bottles or plastic keep cups used with hot liquids can also contribute to exposure.

Personal Care Products

Cosmetics and body products often contain chemicals such as parabens, synthetic fragrances, and aluminium (in spray deodorants). Daily exposures can add up over time, making it helpful to check labels carefully.

Cleaning Products

Many cleaning and laundry products contain chemicals that can influence hormone activity. Ironically, the products we use to “clean” our environment often introduce additional toxins into our homes.

Environmental Toxins

Air pollution and mould are additional sources. Mould can enter the home through leaks, plumbing issues or water damage. If you notice mould or begin experiencing symptoms around the time you move into a new home or workplace, a professional assessment may be warranted.

 

Simple Swaps to Reduce Toxin Exposure

Now that you know how many everyday items may contain hormone-disrupting chemicals, here are some practical swaps to help reduce exposure:

Cookware:

  • Stainless steel, cast iron, or glass

Food Storage:

  • Stainless steel or glass drink bottles
  • Ceramic keep cups
  • Glass or stainless steel containers

Fragrances:

Beauty Products:

Cleaning Products:

We are not affiliated with these brands; they are simply products we have personally found to be low-tox options. A health food store can also guide you towards naturopath-approved alternatives.

 

Herbal Medicine for Detoxification

Several herbs used in Western herbal medicine help support liver function and assist the body in clearing metabolic waste. These include:

  • Burdock
  • Globe artichoke
  • Clivers
  • Schisandra
  • Dandelion leaf
  • Chlorella

Our Detox & Liver Support formula contains these herbs and can support your natural detoxification processes as part of a broader low-tox lifestyle.

 

Naturopathic Tips to Reduce Toxins and Support Hormone Balance

Look out for these ingredients on labels, as they are commonly associated with hormonal or toxic load concerns:

  • Phthalates
  • Sulfates
  • Fragrance
  • Alcohols
  • PEGs
  • Phenoxyethanol
  • Parabens

Reducing exposure where possible helps ease the body’s detoxification burden and can contribute to more balanced hormones.

Taking high-quality herbal medicines, such as those in our Detox & Liver Support formula, can support the body's natural detoxification processes. Pairing these with the lifestyle changes outlined in this article can help reduce toxin exposure and promote healthier hormonal balance.

 

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