Unlocking the Hidden Dangers: Xenoestrogens and Cancer Risk in Everyday Products
In recent years, the rising incidence of cancer has become a global health concern. While several factors contribute to the development of cancer, environmental influences are increasingly being recognized as significant contributors. Among these influences are xenoestrogens, synthetic compounds that mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. This blog aims to shed light on the connection between xenoestrogens and cancer, exploring their potential role in disease development and what you can do to reduce your exposure, including product recommendations and exclusive discount codes to help you make healthier swaps for a more anti-cancer life.
Understanding Xenoestrogens:
Xenoestrogens are a diverse group of chemicals that are not naturally produced by the body but can exert estrogenic effects when introduced into the system. These compounds are found in various products we encounter in daily life, including plastics, cosmetics, personal care products, pesticides, and even certain foods.
Where Xenoestrogens Are Found:
Bisphenol A (BPA): BPA is a chemical compound found in many plastic products, such as food containers, water bottles, and the lining of metal cans. It can leach into food and beverages, particularly when exposed to heat. BPA has been associated with hormone disruption and has estrogenic effects.
Phthalates: Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to soften and increase the flexibility of plastics. They are commonly found in vinyl flooring, shower curtains, plastic toys, and personal care products such as lotions, perfumes, and nail polishes. Phthalates can enter the body through ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption and have been linked to hormonal imbalances and reproductive issues.
Parabens: Parabens are a group of preservatives widely used in cosmetics, skincare products, and pharmaceuticals to prevent microbial growth. They mimic estrogen in the body and can be absorbed through the skin. Common parabens include methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs): PCBs were once widely used in electrical equipment, hydraulic fluids, and plastics but are now banned in many countries due to their environmental persistence and toxic effects. Despite the ban, PCBs can still be found in old electrical equipment, contaminated soil, and water sources. They have been shown to disrupt the endocrine system and have estrogenic properties.
Dioxins: Dioxins are a group of highly toxic chemicals that are byproducts of industrial processes, such as waste incineration and paper bleaching. They can accumulate in the environment and enter the food chain, particularly in animal-based products like meat, dairy, and fish. Dioxins have been linked to reproductive and developmental issues and have estrogenic properties.
Xenoestrogens and Estrogen Receptors:
Estrogen, a hormone primarily produced by the ovaries, plays a crucial role in the regulation of reproductive processes in both men and women. Xenoestrogens exert their effects through various mechanisms. They can bind to estrogen receptors, activating estrogen signaling pathways and promoting cell growth. Additionally, they may interfere with the production, metabolism, and elimination of natural estrogens, leading to increased estrogen levels and disrupted hormonal balance. Moreover, xenoestrogens have been shown to induce oxidative stress and DNA damage, which are key factors in cancer development.
The Link between Xenoestrogens and Cancer:
Numerous studies have suggested a possible association between xenoestrogens and the development of cancer. The estrogenic properties of these compounds can disrupt the delicate balance of hormonal signaling, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and division, a hallmark of cancer. The effects of xenoestrogens on cancer risk have been particularly investigated in relation to hormone-related cancers such as breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer.
Breast Cancer:
Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women worldwide. Xenoestrogens, such as BPA and certain phthalates, have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. These compounds can promote the growth of breast cancer cells and interfere with the effectiveness of anti-cancer treatments.
Ovarian Cancer:
Xenoestrogens have also been implicated in the development of ovarian cancer, the fifth most common cancer in women. Exposure to these compounds has been associated with hormonal imbalances, disruption of ovarian function, and an increased risk of ovarian cancer.
Prostate Cancer:
Although prostate cancer primarily affects men, xenoestrogens can also impact its development. Studies have shown that exposure to certain xenoestrogens may increase the risk of prostate cancer and influence tumor growth by disrupting hormonal signaling.
Other Cancers:
Beyond breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer, xenoestrogens have been linked to other types of cancer as well, including endometrial, testicular, and liver cancer. The precise mechanisms by which these compounds contribute to the development of different cancers are still being investigated, but the estrogenic properties of xenoestrogens are believed to play a crucial role.
How To Minimize Your Exposure to Xenoestrogens:
Choose Natural and Organic Products: Opt for natural and organic alternatives when it comes to food, personal care products, cosmetics, and cleaning supplies. Many conventional products contain xenoestrogens, such as parabens and phthalates. Look for products labeled as "paraben-free," "phthalate-free," or "xenoestrogen-free." Additionally, explore natural or DIY alternatives using simple ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils.
Go for BPA-Free Plastics: Bisphenol A (BPA), a common xenoestrogen, is found in many plastic containers and can leach into food and beverages. Choose BPA-free plastics or better yet, opt for glass or stainless steel containers for food storage and water bottles. Be cautious when microwaving or heating food in plastic containers, or using plastic bottles in saunas, as heat can increase the release of BPA.
Check Food Packaging: Xenoestrogens can also be found in food packaging materials, such as cans and plastic wraps. Look for products that use BPA-free can linings or choose fresh, unpackaged foods whenever possible. Consider buying organic produce to reduce exposure to pesticides, which may contain xenoestrogenic compounds.
Filter Your Water: Public water supplies may contain traces of xenoestrogens from industrial and agricultural sources. Install a water filter at home to remove contaminants, including potential xenoestrogens. Look for filters that specifically mention the removal of synthetic chemicals and estrogenic compounds.
Be Mindful of Pesticides: Conventionally grown fruits and vegetables may contain pesticide residues that could act as xenoestrogens in the body. Choose organic produce to minimize exposure to these chemicals. If organic options are not readily available or affordable, consider using a fruit and vegetable wash to reduce pesticide residues on the surface of non-organic produce.
Educate Yourself: Stay informed about xenoestrogens and their potential sources. Read labels and research products before purchasing them. Stay updated on environmental regulations and initiatives aimed at reducing the use of xenoestrogens. Knowledge is power when it comes to protecting your health.
My Cancer Nutritionist Personal Care Product Recommendations:
Nuud Deodorant: Nuud is a vegan, aluminium free, natural deodorant that allows you to sweat but not smell. Nuud prevents odour by neutralizing bacteria with micro silver. It’s super concentrated so you may only need to use it every 3-7 days, whilst still showering, exercising or even going in the sauna. To get 20% off your first order use this link
Skin Diligent Face Care: Skin Diligent are the first brand to test its skincare for endocrine disruption on living cells, to ensure the safety of its finished products. Their skin oils have numerous benefits including: helping combat oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory, restore the skin’s microbiome ensuring its optimal functioning - repairing and protecting the skin; as well as helping with blemishes and anti-ageing. To get 10% off Skin Diligent’s products use code JENNY10 at checkout
Plastic Freedom: is a one-stop shop for the eco-conscious, eco-curious, and eco-virgins to help reduce plastic use. They stock sustainable goods from 100's of brands to make shopping eco fun, easy and part of the routine covering skincare, haircare, cleaning products, clothing, makeup & more! They’re one of my favourite companies, planting a tree with every order. To get 10% off use code MYCANCERNUTRITIONIST at checkout.
Microbz home cleaning: Household cleaning products can be yet another source of toxicity for the body, leaching potential carcinogenic properties into the air within the home as well as potential xenoestrogens. Microbz have created a range of cleaners that use probiotics. Better for your health and the environment. Visit Microbz to get 10% off use code Jenny10
Organic groceries: Abel & Cole is my go to for organic produce. They provide a range of fruit, vegetable, & salad boxes, as well as pasture raised meat and wild caught fish, plus a host of other organic produce to help stock your pantry, including a range of plant based options. I’ve been using them for years and love their ethos and approach to sustainability. Get 50% off your first box via this link
Water Filters: I recommend investing in a water filtering system. Moderately priced ones are the Wellness Water Carafe, and if you can afford to invest a bit more, then go for the Berkey. If you’re in a position to overhaul your entire water system in your home, then have a look at Osmio.
Conclusion:
While the link between xenoestrogens and cancer is not yet fully understood, accumulating evidence suggests that these environmental estrogens may contribute to cancer development, particularly hormone-related cancers such as breast and reproductive cancers. It is important to continue research in this area to fully comprehend the impact of xenoestrogens on cancer risk. In the meantime, adopting a precautionary approach by minimizing exposure to xenoestrogens through lifestyle choices and advocating for stricter regulations on their use can be prudent. Ultimately, a better understanding of xenoestrogens and their potential role in cancer development will aid in developing effective strategies for prevention and protecting public health.
References:
Darbre, P. D. (2017). Endocrine Disruptors and Obesity. Current Obesity Reports, 6(1), 18–27.
Rochester, J. R. (2013). Bisphenol A and human health: A review of the literature. Reproductive Toxicology, 42, 132–155.
Skakkebaek, N. E., Rajpert-De Meyts, E., Main, K. M. (2001). Testicular dysgenesis syndrome: an increasingly common developmental disorder with environmental aspects. Human Reproduction, 16(5), 972–978.
Safe, S. (2001). Endocrine disruptors and human health: is there a problem?. Toxicology, 160(1-3), 3-11.
Terasaka, S., Inoue, A., Tanji, M., Kiyama, R. (2004). Expression profiling of estrogen-responsive genes in breast cancer cells treated with alkylphenols, chlorinated phenols, parabens, or bis- and benzoylphenols for evaluation of estrogenic activity. Toxicology Letters, 154(1-2), 131-144.
Wu, Q., Ohsako, S., Ishimura, R., Suzuki, J. S., Tohyama, C. (2004). Exposure of mouse preimplantation embryos to bisphenol A advances postimplantation development. Toxicological Sciences, 78(1), 151-157.
