Phthalates: The Hidden Hormone Disruptor

I could talk about this subject forever simply because I was completely blown away by how prevalent phthalates are in our culture, as well as how damaging exposure over the long term can be. There truly is no way to avoid them unless you literally go and live off the grid. :)

Well, let's dig in. I'm going to provide you with a definition, where you can find them, why you should try to avoid them, and finally ~ HOW you can eliminate them as much as possible.

What ARE phthalates?

While they have a fancy, scientific name, essentially, it's a plastic. OR more specifically, a salt or ester of phthalic acid. Think PVC piping. This acid is used to make plastics more soft, pliable, and hard to break. This compound is added to plastic in most consumer products, and it boggles my mind why the FDA allows this, as they conclude they isn't enough research to back up whether it's harmful to humans. Yet, there have been countless studies, stating otherwise.

Where can you find them?

Like I mentioned previously, phthalates are in everything. I recently read an article here, https://www.verywellhealth.com/phthalates-5216073 , which states, "Phthalates are sometimes called the “everywhere chemical.” This is because they are found in thousands of products that people use daily, including:"

• Children’s toys

• Medical devices

• Furniture

• PVC plumbing

• Vinyl flooring

• Wall coverings

• Detergents and household cleaners

• Food packaging

• Personal care products, including soaps, shampoos, and cosmetics.

Why should you avoid them?

When I started to dig more into fibroids and why I had developed them so badly, I was surprised to learn of a place that I hadn't thought of. And while there are certainly other factors that contribute to their growth (genetic predisposition, caffeine, diet, exercise, hormone therapy, birth control), I knew my career had been repeatedly exposing me to them daily.

We all have been aware of the shift in receipt tape from paper to thermal receipts for about a decade or two now. Well come to find, THERMAL RECEIPT TAPE has approximately 20 mg of phthalate compounds on a roll. This may not seem like much, but when you are repeatedly touching it 8-10 hours a day ~ that can add up. As a store manager, who opened and closed the store with multiple registers, and had to handle all the paperwork (including receipt tape & journals), I can tell you I touched ALOT.

Keep it in perspective!

Now my story may sound extreme, and you may be thinking, "Okay, do I really need to avoid touching my purchasing receipts?" The answer is, no, probably not. However, I just wanted to make you aware that if you are trying to conceive, have PCOS, fibroids, or other reproductive issues; up to and including cancer ~ it is definitely something to look into.

Phthalates are linked to reduced testosterone in males, infertility in females, and are known to be the cause of major endocrine disruptions. Thyroid and breast cancers are more prevalent in those who have repeated exposure to phthalates. I'm convinced phthalates are a major contributing factor to what I consider an epidemic on diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

How to eliminate them

After my fibroid surgery I became much more aware of phthalates, and once I began my infertility journey, I became tenacious. I went through all household products. Look at laundry, dish soap, cleaning products, and air purifiers. Then move on to the personal products. Look at all cosmetics, fragrance, shampoos, body wash, body soaps.

Unfortunately, it doesn't get end there. Plastic bottles, food containers, and even toys all have high levels of phthalates. Where possible do not drink out of plastic bottles. Purchase glass or aluminum, although glass is the best option. Try not to heat food or store food in plastic containers as well. It tends to seep into the food.

Finally, I learned this a few years back. But if you really love your plastic water bottles, or frequently consume products from them ~ aim to avoid those with the following recycle numbers on the bottom: #3, #6, #7. The article I referenced above actually mentions it too.

Awareness is KEY

I didn't write this post to scare you. I wrote it because I think it's important to educate. If you would like to hear more or discuss how you can move to a life free of phthalates, drop a comment below. I'm also always available for a FREE CONSULTATION. Click here to get in touch! Stay safe! XOXO