About this episode
West Wellness and Longevity Links Are you ready to make change but don't know where to start. Book a free 30 min consultation here. https://www.westwellnessatx.com/get-started Have questions? Feel free to reach out to me at: tarawest@westwellnessatx.com Follow me on instagram @westwellnessatx Non- Toxic Cookware: https://www.greenpan.us/WESTWELLNESSATX Non-Toxic Cleaners/detergents: https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1736653&u=4252226&m=108208&urllink=&afftrack= Non-Toxic Face/ body products: https: https://amzn.to/3ExhwZf Non-Toxic Food Storage: https://amzn.to/4hFtezx EWG: https://www.ewg.org/ The crux of today's discourse centers on the pervasive issue of hormone dysregulation, a phenomenon that is alarmingly affecting the health of young men and women, particularly within the United States. This episode elucidates the significant role of endocrine disruptors—ubiquitous chemicals present in various everyday products, including plastics, food packaging, and personal care items—that interfere with natural hormone functions. These disruptors contribute to the alarming trends of declining testosterone levels, fertility issues, and conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and insulin resistance. We delve into the scientific underpinnings of these endocrine disruptors, examining their origins and the mechanisms by which they precipitate metabolic dysfunction and chronic diseases. Ultimately, we advocate for informed lifestyle choices and dietary modifications to mitigate exposure to these harmful substances and promote hormonal health. Studies and Research Referenced: Ultra-Processed Foods Intake and Sex Hormone Levels Among Adolescents : This study found that UPF consumption is associated with increased exposure to endocrine disruptors (EDCs), such as phthalates and bisphenols, which are known to interfere with the body's hormonal balance. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov Ultra-Processed and Fast Food Consumption, Exposure to Phthalates During Pregnancy : This study found that consuming ultra-processed foods may increase exposure to phthalates, a group of endocrine disruptors prevalent in food contact materials. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov Study Finds Widespread Exposure to Hormone-Disrupting Chemical During Pregnancy : Research from Rutgers University indicates that diets higher in ultra-processed foods are associated with increased concentrations of zearalenone (ZEN), a mycoestrogen that mimics estrogen in the body. rutgers.edu The Connection Between Ultra-Processed Foods and Endocrine Disruptors : This article examines how UPFs often contain additives and contaminants that act as endocrine disruptors. It discusses the potential mechanisms by which these substances contribute to obesity and metabolic disorders through hormonal imbalances. stop.publichealth.gwu.edu Hormone-Disrupting Chemicals Found in Popular US Fast Foods : A study detected phthalates, a class of EDCs, in popular fast-food items. For instance, Wendy's crispy chicken nuggets, Chipotle's chicken burrito, and Burger King's Whopper with cheese were found to have high levels of these chemicals. medicalnewstoday.com Decline in Men's Testosterone Levels : A study published in 2007 found a substantial drop in U.S. men's testosterone levels since the 1980s, with the reasons for this decline remaining unclear. reuters.