What are EDCs and why should you worry about them?

What are endocrine disruptors (EDCs)?

The endocrine system is a network of glands that produce many of your body's most important hormones.

Endocrine disruptors (EDCs) are chemicals that interfere with these hormones - produced by the endocrine system. They can imitate these natural hormones, block their normal function, or even inhibit their production altogether.

EDCs can be both natural and manmade, and are commonly found in everyday products. Because they may disrupt your hormone function, their widespread presence is a growing concern.

Why are EDCs dangerous?

Your body needs the hormones produced by the endocrine system to help it function at its best.

When you think about how important these hormones are for our health, it's concerning that EDCs are so common - especially given their potential to cause serious harm.

Shubhi Sharma, Scientific Research Assistant, CHEM Trust

Shubhi Sharma is a scientific research assistant at CHEM Trust, UK - a charity that aims to prevent hazardous synthetic chemicals from causing long-term damage to people and wildlife.

Sharma says that EDCs affect hormones, impacting the health and development of both humans, animals, and other natural organisms.

"They can do this in a number of ways," she explains. "Some change the amount of hormones in your blood, others change your sensitivity to hormones. Other EDCs block hormones from doing their job, and others even mimic your body’s natural hormones."

Sharma warns that these include:

• Reproductive diseases.

• Endometriosis.

• Early puberty.

• Obesity.

• Diabetes.

• Heart disease.

• Certain hormonal cancers - such as breast, testicular and prostate cancers.

She adds: "There are even concerns that the brain’s development and function could be affected."

Common everyday sources of EDCs

Research has identified both confirmed and suspected endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in many everyday products that we use regularly.

Sharma explains that EDCs may be found in:

• Cosmetics.

• Toiletries.

• Clothing.

• Furniture.

• Children's toys.

• Food packaging.

"People may be surprised to learn that harmful chemicals can also build up in household dust," she adds. "In addition, fragrances used in toiletries and cosmetics can contain harmful chemicals, and manufacturers are not required to list all chemicals in the fragrances.

"So you might see that a shampoo contains a ‘fragrance’, but the individual chemicals in this fragrance might not be listed, and could include harmful chemicals."

How to reduce your EDC exposure

The best thing you can do to reduce your exposure to EDCs is to be mindful of what you buy and the products you use daily. Of course, given how widespread EDCs are, that’s easier said than done. Fortunately, Sharma has a list of practical, preventative tips to help you lower your exposure.

Sharma's tips for food packaging

To reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals in food-contact materials, you should try and avoid buying packaged food were possible.

"Choose fresh ingredients such as loose fruit and vegetables," Sharma advises. "You can also get foods - such as pulses, pasta, rice, beans and nuts - from bulk stores where you can refill your own containers."

She also recommends you steer clear of fast-food packaging, as it can be a source of harmful chemicals. Additionally, processed foods themselves may become contaminated during the production process.

Sharma advises you store your food in glass containers or jars, as harmful chemicals in plastic packaging and containers can leach into your food or drink.

"Similarly, instead of plastic drinks bottles, opt for reusable bottles made of stainless steel," she says.

Sharma's tips for toiletries

When buying toiletries and fragrances, make sure you read the product labels carefully, and put back those containing certain chemicals.

Sharma notes the key ingredients to watch for:

• Parabens and PFAS - sometimes written as PTFE or 'flouro-'

• Fragrances described as 'perfume' or 'parfum' - opt for fragrance-free products wherever possible.

"On the topic of labels, look out for products with ecolabels - such as the EU ecolabel," she says. "These have stricter rules about what ingredients are allowed in them."

Sharma's tips for children's toys

Children’s toys can also contain EDCs, which is especially concerning due to their potential impact on a child’s development.

"Buy toys from reputable retailers and look for the CE or UKCA mark," says Sharma. "Avoid toys that smell strongly of chemicals or are heavily scented.

"You should also refrain from buying soft plastic toys that might contain phthalates. If a toy is painted or treated with varnish or other coatings, make sure it's non-toxic, free from lead, and meant for children."

Sharma's tips for cleaning products

Using fewer and smaller amounts of certain cleaning products can reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals.

Sharma advises you skip on air fresheners, as they can contain harmful chemicals. Instead, try opening windows regularly to improve ventilation throughout your home.

"When purchasing cleaning products, choose those with an ecolabel - such as the EU Ecolabel," she says.

She adds that harmful chemicals can build up in household dust - so aim to hoover regularly and open windows for fresh air.

How to practice safer shopping

CHEM Trust believes that people should not have to make changes to avoid harmful chemicals.

Sharma explains that stronger regulations should be put in place to prevent harmful chemicals from being in products in the first place. However, in the meantime, you can adopt tips such as the above to help lower your chance of exposure.

Although there aren’t any labels or certifications that specifically show a product is free from endocrine-disrupting chemicals, you can choose certain products over others.

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