In the clinic I frequently see symptoms such as persistent fatigue, painful or irregular periods, thyroid problems, difficulty losing weight, infertility, abdominal bloating or mood swings.
Often, besides stress and diet, there is a silent factor involved: endocrine disruptors. There is a growing body of scientific evidence regarding its impact, not only on metabolic and hormonal health, but also on the gut microbiota, the disruption of which can amplify hormonal imbalance.
1. What are endocrine disruptors?
Endocrine disruptors are chemical substances, with a structure similar to our hormones, capable of interfere with the hormonal system. They can:
- Mimicking hormones (such as oestrogens)
- Block hormone receptors
- Alter its production or disposal.
- Modify the sensitivity of tissues to hormonal signals
The endocrine system regulates key processes such as metabolism, fertility, the menstrual cycle, thyroid function, mood and the stress response. Therefore, its disruption can contribute to the development of metabolic, reproductive, immunological and neurological diseases. This is supported by the World Health Organization (WHO).
2. Where are they?
- Bisphenol A (BPA) and microplastics present in plastic containers particularly exposed to heat, reused or scratched (plastic lunch boxes, plastic bottles and packaged ready meals). Food cans also contain BPA in their interior lining, but nowadays canned goods are much more regulated and many companies have removed it from their cans.
- Parabens, phthalates, benzophenones, synthetic fragrances or triclosan present in cosmetics (creams, shampoos, make-up...), hygiene products and household cleaning products.
- Pesticides and herbicides present in conventional agriculture, especially of soft fruit, grapes and apples.
Perfluorinated compounds (PFOS, PFOA) present in scratched or damaged non-stick frying pans.
Mycotoxins: Eating food contaminated with mould or having damp patches in the home where mould is present, which release mycotoxins into the air.
A single instance of contact has no effect on our bodies, but a cumulative and constant exposure, yes.
3. What impact does it have on our microbiota?
Recent evidence shows that these compounds act as gut ecosystem modifiers. Continuous exposure has been seen to reduce the bacterial diversity of our microbiota and can affect the intestinal barrier, increasing local inflammation (higher risk of intolerances, infections, and digestive and hormonal disorders).
The gut is also an endocrine and detoxifying organ, and when its balance is disrupted, so is hormonal regulation.
4. What can we do?
Realising that exposure to these substances can affect us in the long term does not mean becoming obsessed, but rather learn to reduce your exposure gradually and realistically. Start with one of these small changes:
- Avoid heating food in plastic: use glass containers.
- Minimise the use of cling film in contact with hot food.
- Prioritise fresh food and cooking more at home: reduce packaged ultra-processed foods and ready meals.
- Wash fruit and vegetables thoroughly: Water + mechanical friction and peel non-organic fruit and vegetables whenever possible.
- Use cosmetics labelled as vegan or microplastic-free, and avoid those containing parabens or fragrances.
- Use stainless steel bottles (tap water or filtered water if the water is very hard).
- Air the house for 5–10 minutes in the morning and evening, and keep mould under control.
- Do not eat mouldy fruit or spoiled food.
- Use natural cleaning products (vinegar, bicarbonate of soda, etc.) or eco-friendly products like brands such as Natulim, Frosch or Ecover.
Below is a brand I work with that produces high-quality, microplastic-free and chemical-free cleaning and home care products. If this is your first purchase, get a 20% if you live in Spain or a 10% if you live in Germany or France by clicking on the link:
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