Hormone Health
A powerful first step in taking control of your fertility is being aware of lifestyle factors that could be compromising your hormonal health.
You might be surprised to know what is hiding in your household products, and potentially upsetting or disrupting your hormonal balance. Chemical compounds known as endocrine disrupters show up in soap, sunscreen, makeup, as well as plastic containers. U.S. researchers identified 10,500 industrial chemicals used as cosmetic ingredients, including carcinogens, pesticides, reproductive toxics, endocrine disruptors, plasticizers, degreasers and surfactants.
A number of national and international organizations have investigated these hormone altering chemicals, and now have consumer guides to help identify products with these compounds.
The Story of Cosmetics, released on July 21, 2010, examines the pervasive use of toxic chemicals in our everyday personal care products, from lipstick to baby shampoo. The seven-minute film reveals the implications for consumer and worker health and the environment, and outlines ways we can move the industry away from hazardous chemicals and towards safer alternatives.
In Canada, the Suzuki Foundation surveyed Canadians to see how many of the Dirty Dozen ingredients below appeared in their cosmetics, and their findings show that 80 per cent of entered products contained at least one of these toxic chemicals. You can find their Mobile friendly Dirty Dozen shopping guide here: http://davidsuzuki.org/dirty12/
A good place to start on this subject, and the “Dirty Dozen” chemicals, is The David Suzuki Foundation.
In the United States, the pioneers in this field is the Environmental Working Group. Their work examines everything from food contaminants to toxic children’s toys.
See their list of twelve hormone altering chemicals, and how to avoid them
The European Commission is engaged in extensive research and policy development to address the health risks of endocrine disrupters and Persistent Organic Pollutants.
Hormone Healthy Living
Many products we use in our daily life contain compounds that can disrupt hormonal balance, commonly known as endocrine disrupters. These compounds can be a hidden source of hormonal imbalances and disorders. In children, these compounds can disrupt normal growth and development.
Here we have listed companies that work to produce products free of these compounds, whether it is shampoo for your baby or cosmetics for yourself.
Think Dirty App
Think Dirty® app is the easiest way to learn about the potentially toxic ingredients in your cosmetics and personal care products. Just scan the product barcode and Think Dirty will give you easy-to-understand info on the product, its ingredients, and shop cleaner options!
Gimme the Good Stuff
Find out what's good, what's bad, and what's sneaky. Don't be duped by "natural" products!
DIY Natural Health and Beauty Products
Investigate the safety of your cosmetics at the Environmental Working Groups Skin Deep site
