The Weight of Chemicals On Your Family

Article in a Nutshell

"Microplastics have been found in human blood,
intestines, lungs, kidneys, livers, hearts,
reproductive organs, and placentas."

Intro

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals can affect your family’s hormonal balance and overall health. Identifying common sources such as BPA, phthalates, and pesticides can help you reduce daily exposure within your home.

Holistic nutrition offers a pathway toward restoring balance. Through nutrient-dense foods, targeted nutrients, and simple lifestyle practices, you can support your body’s resilience and create a healthier environment for your family.

Thallia Bird, CHN

Energetic Health Institute
March 4, 2025

Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) and the Body

The endocrine system is your body’s internal messaging system, responsible for maintaining homeostasis — keeping your internal environment stable and balanced. It includes glands such as the thyroid, pituitary, and adrenal glands. (2)

Every day, you are exposed to chemicals in your home, school, and workplace. Your liver filters approximately 250 gallons of blood in a 24-hour period, yet modern chemical exposure can tax this system. Because exposures vary by environment and daily choices — including food, body care, and household products — it can be difficult to fully understand their impact on your body and on your children’s growth and development. (3)

One primary way EDCs affect your body is through hormone disruption. Hormones act as messengers, helping regulate mood, growth and development, metabolism, reproduction, sleep cycles, and overall balance. EDCs can interfere with this communication by mimicking hormones or binding to hormone receptors, which may affect fertility and endocrine function. (4)

Research shows that PFAS and other environmental chemicals are widely present, including in pregnant mothers and newborns. Early-life exposure may influence immune function, development, and long-term health outcomes. Because babies and children are still growing, they are especially sensitive to environmental stressors. Understanding these exposures allows you to take practical steps at home to reduce risk and support your family’s resilience. (5) (6) (7) (8) (9)

Environmental Sources of EDCs

Water

The water you give your children to drink, mix into formula, or use for cooking and bathing may contain environmental residues. Tap water, and some bottled water, can contain antibiotics, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and heavy metals. Filtering and purifying your household supply is one of the simplest ways you can support cleaner water at home. For more guidance, see the EHI Water Guide. (10) (11) (12)

Food Packaging & Preparation

Microplastics, BPA, and BPA substitutes can leach into food from packaging, storage, and preparation methods — especially when plastic is heated. Items such as plastic cutting boards, plastic-lined containers, baby bottles, and sippy cups may contribute to exposure. Choosing glass, stainless steel, or silicone alternatives can help support healthier meals and drinks for your family. (13)

Forever Chemicals

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called “forever chemicals,” are another category of EDCs that may leach into food from non-stick cookware. Some air fryers, particularly those made with Teflon, may also contain PFAS. (14)

Skin Absorption

Your skin absorbs what you put on it. Sources of EDC exposure may include hand soap, hand sanitizer, dish soap, detergent residues on clothing, and ingredients in body care products such as lotion, deodorant, hair care, feminine hygiene products, nail care, baby powder, perfume, and cosmetics. (15) (16) (17)

BPA in Receipts

In 2010, Toxic-Free Future published a study reporting that many cash register receipts contain BPA, and paper currency may also carry trace contamination. Thermal paper receipts can be another source of endocrine-disrupting chemical exposure. (16)

Clothing and Accessories

Clothing is one of the largest sources of primary microplastics. Approximately 70% of clothing produced in 2025 was made from synthetic (plastic-based) fibers. Synthetic fabrics may release microplastics, particularly during activities such as exercise or sun exposure. “Sizing” chemicals and dyes used in natural fibers can also contribute to endocrine-disrupting chemical exposure.(17) (18) (28)

Medications & Medical Exposures

Certain medical injections and IV therapies may introduce heavy metals or microplastics into your body. Some pharmaceutical medications can also influence endocrine organs such as the adrenal, reproductive, and thyroid systems. Understanding potential exposures allows you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare provider. (19)

Inhaled Fragrance

Perfume, incense, scented candles, air fresheners, and fragranced detergents or dryer sheets can release EDCs into the air in the form of fragrance compounds. Some fragrance ingredients may interact with hormone receptors in your body and influence endocrine function. (29)

Household Materials and Children’s Products

Exposure can occur through inhalation, touch, or ingestion, particularly in children — especially with new products and packaging materials that may contain EDCs. (20)

Genetically Modified Organisms(GMO’s) and Pesticides

GMOs are plants that have been genetically altered to tolerate higher levels of certain pesticides, most commonly glyphosate, or to contain genetic material from another species. To reduce pesticide exposure, consider purchasing from local farmers or growing organic foods when possible. (22)

Heavy Metals

Sources of heavy metal exposure may include unfiltered water, canned foods and beverages, certain chocolate products, infant formula, some baby foods, and certain types of cookware. Some reports have identified cadmium and lead in a variety of chocolate brands, including both conventional and organic options. Mercury-containing dental amalgam fillings may also contribute to ongoing exposure. (23)

Microplastics

Microplastics can bind to EDCs in the environment, including in waterways, and may contribute to increased uptake within your body. Research has identified microplastics in human blood, intestines, lungs, kidneys, liver, heart tissue, reproductive organs, and placentas. Emerging studies are exploring potential associations between microplastic exposure and conditions such as cardiovascular disease, respiratory issues, metabolic disorders, and neurodegenerative changes, including Alzheimer’s disease. (24) (25)

Blue Light exposure

Artificial light can influence your body’s production of melatonin. Exposure to natural light and regular exercise — often experienced together — can support healthy sleep timing. Warm light, such as that produced by the sun, wood fires, and incandescent bulbs, may support mood and is associated with serotonin production, unlike many LED and blue-light devices. (42)

Solutions to EDC's Exposure

Your body is designed to heal.

Here’s a three-step process to support endocrine balance so your family can live their best lives together.

1. Start by Reducing Exposure

Reduce exposure where possible to tap water, p(harm)aceuticals, injections, non-organic foods, fast foods, refined sugar, artificial flavors and colors, CAFO meats, and seed oils.

Switch out body care, cosmetics, clothing, and detergents for natural and organic alternatives. Consider using a whole-home water filter or a bath/shower filter, and choose purified water for drinking and cooking. Environmental factors such as mold, chemical building materials, and excessive EMF exposure may also contribute to endocrine disruption and can be addressed when possible.

2. Choose Safer Alternatives

Choose purified or distilled spring water when available. Select body care products and makeup carefully, avoiding fragrances, preservatives, stabilizers, and fillers. Look for fragrance-free detergents and home cleaning products made with natural ingredients.

Choose hemp, linen, or organic cotton clothing for you and your family. Practice good EMF hygiene by turning off screens at least one hour before bed. Spend time outdoors by placing your feet on grass, sand, or forest ground.

3. Support Natural Detox Pathways

Support your body’s natural detoxification pathways with an organic, whole-food, plant-based diet and holistic nutrition in the therapeutic range. Practices such as sweating, exercise, intermittent fasting, and red light sauna may support your body’s ability to process and eliminate stored compounds.

Air purification within your home can further support your environment. Adding houseplants and improving indoor air quality are simple steps that can make a meaningful difference.

There are many choices you can begin making today to bring your body and your family back into balance and positively influence future generations. For further guidance, consider working with a holistic nutrition professional who can help you navigate dietary choices and supplementation in the therapeutic range.

You can start with simple steps, such as trying a 5-15 minute morning breathing practice, spending more time in natural light, and bringing plants into your home.

Healthy Choices For Healing

Foods that can help bring your body back in balance after endocrine disruption are apples, pumpkin seeds, seaweed, Brazil nuts (in moderation), chlorella, and avocados. Some supplements that can help are vitamin C, copper, zinc, milk thistle, B vitamins, omega-3s, magnesium, selenium, manganese, and glutathione. Some herbs that modulate the endocrine system include: ashwagandha, maca, tulsi, rhodiola, and eleuthero. Please consult a certified herbalist, holistic nutritionist, and/or a Naturopathic Doctor before trying any of these herbal remedies. (26)

Tools for Healthy Product Choices

Today, there are more resources than ever to support your family in creating a healthier home.

EHI Support for Parents

Here at EHI, we offer several ways to support parents who want to raise healthier families.

Below, you’ll find links to explore the options that best fit your family’s needs.

Membership

Free & Educational Guides

Independent Studies

Certifications

Final Thoughts

To support healing from endocrine disruption, focus on improving both your external and internal environment while providing your family with holistic nutritional support. Men and women hoping to conceive, as well as expectant parents, have meaningful control over what goes on and in their bodies.

With the information available today, you can begin choosing wise alternatives in nourishment, body care, and clothing. Simple steps such as regular exercise, sunlight exposure, and drinking filtered water can help reduce exposure to EDCs and positively influence the health of future generations.

About the Author

Thallia Bird, CHN, is a Certified Holistic Nutritionist and graduate of the Energetic Health Institute. She is also a certified yoga teacher, massage therapist, herbalist, and permaculture gardener. Raised in a family grounded in nature and simple living, she cultivated a lifestyle centered around faith and holistic wellness. She continues to write, teach, and share her passion for healthy living with her friends, family, and clients. Thallia is the owner and founder of Soul Flowering Holistic, where she integrates nutrition, herbal wisdom, and nature-based living to support whole-person wellness.

Graduate Spotlight

Amber McCrea, a Therapeutic Nutritionist, specializes in holistic nutrition and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). Her mission is to guide women on a transformative journey of self-connection and fostering deeper connections with others. Through her podcast Connection Over Perfection, she celebrates the beauty of holistic well-being and the power of authentic connections.

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