Chemical and Environmental Toxins
Dr. Jack Kunkel
Chemical and Environmental
Toxins
As a general term, toxins refer to things like cancer-causing chemicals and endocrine disruptors which can be both human-made and naturally occurring, that can harm our health by disrupting sensitive biological systems.
Our endocrine system includes different glands — like the thyroid or pituitary gland — that produce hormones which help to regulate body functions. Toxins are artificial chemicals that interfere with the proper functioning of our hormones.
Five common toxins:
- Phthalates are substances added to plastics to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability, and longevity. They are also found in some food packaging, cosmetics, hair products, children’s toys, and medical devices.
- Bisp (BPA)is an industrial chemical that is used to make polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, which are found in many plastic products including food storage containers, food packaging, water bottles, and older types of polycarbonate baby bottles.
- Phytoestrongens are naturally occurring estrogen-like substances in plants that have hormone-like activity that are found in soy products, like tofu or soy milk, in some whole grains, and dried beans.
- Formaldehyde is often used as a preservative in many household products, such as glues/adhesives, cleaning and beauty products, baby wipes, and medium- density fiberboards.
- Tetrachloroethylene is a chemical found in dry-cleaning solutions, spot removers, carpet cleaners, and upholstery cleaners