Are Hidden “Fake Estrogens” Disrupting Your Hormones?
Ditch Toxins
Embrace Health
In this Newsletter:
➡️ What Are Xenoestrogens & Where They Hide
➡️ Real Health Risks
➡️ Simple Ways to Reduce Exposure
➡️ Detox Tips
A little over a year ago, I decided to take an environmental toxins test, expecting pretty normal results. Instead, I got a shocker: my BPA (a chemical found in plastics) levels were sky-high. I’d heard of BPA, but I never realized it acts like a “fake estrogen” in the body, disrupting our natural hormone balance.
That’s when I realized how common these hormone impostors, called xenoestrogens, really are. From microwaving leftovers in plastic to using certain cosmetics, I was practically inviting them into my system every day. I started making small swaps – glass containers, more organic produce, paraben-free cosmetics – and I’m on a mission to reduce exposure as much as I can this year. I can’t wait to share what I learned so you can guard your hormones, too.
👉 Missed my last newsletter on estrogen 101? Check it out for basics on why hormone balance matters.
Xenoestrogens 101: What & Where?
Xenoestrogens literally means “foreign estrogens.” They’re chemicals that mimic estrogen in the body, binding to receptors and sending false signals. Over time, this can push your hormone balance toward “estrogen dominance,”which can trigger all sorts of issues - think heavy or irregular periods, breast tenderness, or mood swings. Common xenoestrogens include BPA, parabens, phthalates, pesticides, and industrial chemicals.
Where They Hide
➡️ Plastics & Food Packaging
BPA & phthalates can leach into your food - especially when heated. Examples: plastic water bottles, canned foods (linings often contain BPA), coffee cups & takeout containers, or microwaving plastic containers.
➡️ Cosmetics & Toiletries
Watch out for parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben) and phthalates (often listed as “fragrance”). Common in lotions, shampoos, makeup, deodorants, and perfume.
➡️ Pesticides on Food
Many conventional pesticides can mimic estrogen. Common in non-organic (or not well-washed) produce.
➡️ Household Items
Cleaners, air fresheners, candles, receipts (thermal paper), and older non-stick cookware can contain hormone-disrupting chemicals.
👉 Note: It’s not about perfection, but awareness: every small change counts! Reducing exposure to xenoestrogens is a smart step toward hormonal health and disease prevention.
Why You Should Care: Health Impacts
Let’s be honest: one random chemical exposure won’t usually break your health. But long-term, repeated exposure adds up, and xenoestrogens are linked to a variety of issues:
❗ Hormone Imbalance & PMS
Xenoestrogens may push the body toward higher estrogen levels, leading to PMS, heavy periods, and mood swings.
Men aren’t exempt: phthalates and BPA have been associated with lower testosterone and reduced fertility.
❗ Breast Cancer & Other Cancers
Estrogen can fuel certain cancers; xenoestrogens appear to increase that risk, especially in breast tissue.
Over time, cumulative exposure matters, which is why even small daily doses might be significant.
❗ Weight & Metabolic Issues
Some xenoestrogens are also dubbed “obesogens” - they can disrupt fat storage and insulin sensitivity.
This can mean higher risk of obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic problems over time.
👉 Note: Remember, many of these issues develop gradually - so the sooner you cut back, the better!
How to Reduce Exposure
Ditch Plastic Wherever You Can
Swap plastic food containers for glass or stainless steel.
Opt for a metal or glass water bottle instead of disposable plastic bottles.
Never microwave in plastic - heat speeds up chemical leaching.
Choose fresh or frozen foods over cans (often lined with BPA).
Check Your Labels
Go “phthalate-free” and “paraben-free” for skincare, makeup, and lotions.
Look for natural or organic personal care brands that list all ingredients clearly.
Minimize use of things like nail polish or heavily scented products.
Skip receipts when possible or opt for digital versions - BPA on thermal paper can transfer to your skin.
👉 Tip: For cosmetics, there are apps and databases (like Yuka) that rate products on their safety - super helpful when revamping your makeup bag. I’m in the process of gradually swapping out my makeup for cleaner brands: ILIA, RMS, SAIE, and KOSAS are my current favorites. It’s pricey to do all at once, but replacing items as they run out makes it more manageable.
Eat Clean & Filter Water
Prioritize organic or local produce.
If organic isn’t an option, thoroughly wash and peel produce.
A good reverse-osmosis filter helps remove toxic residues from tap water.
Choose Non-Toxic Home Goods
Opt for natural cleaners or DIY with vinegar and baking soda.
If you’re buying new pans, consider stainless steel or cast iron instead of old non-stick ones. Some ceramic pans are also considered good options.
Choose unscented, phthalate-free detergents, or those scented with essential oils instead of synthetic fragrance.
Avoid air fresheners that just pollute your indoor air; use open windows or natural diffusers if you need fragrance.
Let new furniture or carpets “off-gas” outside or in a well-ventilated room.
In short, focus on what you can control: your food containers, your food choices, and your household/personal products. Start with one area first. I began with my food and water first (organic where possible and a reverse-osmosis filter at home). Next, I tackled household items and cosmetics. My next step is minimizing plastic in my kitchen.
Remember: your body can and will clear out many of these chemicals if you give it a break from constant intake. (And don’t stress about the things you can’t avoid - stress hormones are no good either!) The goal is progress, not perfection.
Detoxing Xenoestrogens
Cutting off sources is half the battle. But how do you help your body clear out what’s already inside?
(Check out my last newsletter for more details.)
🌱 Sauna or Sweat Sessions
Research suggests sweating (via exercise or sauna) can help excrete BPA and similar toxins. Just stay hydrated and replenish electrolytes.
🌱 Boost Your Liver & Gut
Cruciferous veggies contain DIM, which aids estrogen metabolism. High-fiber foods and probiotics help your gut excrete estrogenic compounds rather than reabsorbing them.
🌱 Hydrate
Simple but crucial. Adequate water helps flush out toxins via the kidneys. Aim for at least 8 cups a day; add lemon or berries for flavor if plain water bores you.
🌱Limit Alcohol
Your liver can only do so much at once; excess alcohol can hamper estrogen breakdown. Even cutting down by a few drinks a week makes a difference.
👉 Tip: No need to overhaul everything overnight—start small and build healthy habits. Over time, your body thanks you!
Knowledge Is Empowerment
If you’re feeling inspired (or freaked out!) about these hidden hormone hijackers, remember: knowledge = empowerment. Start with one easy change - like switching to glass containers or buying a paraben-free lotion - and celebrate every step. I started with small steps, and I’m still on a journey, reducing toxins that I can control.
Stay tuned and follow along - I’ll be sharing a list of my favorite non-toxic swaps soon on Instagram.
Got questions or tips of your own? Hit reply - I’d love to hear your experiences! And if this newsletter helped you, share it with a friend who might be battling mystery PMS or just wants to ditch “fake estrogens.”
Here’s to a healthier, happier you!