Endocrine Disruptors and PCOS: How Chemicals Impact Your Hormones

This week’s blog dives into two timely topics: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and the importance of going organic. PCOS is a common hormonal disorder, affecting around 10% of women. While the exact cause of PCOS remains unclear, it’s believed that genetic, epigenetic, endocrine, metabolic, and environmental factors all play a role in its development. One of these environmental factors could be chemicals known as endocrine disruptors.

What Are Endocrine Disruptors?

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with the body’s hormonal balance. According to the International Programme on Chemical Safety, an endocrine disruptor is any substance or mixture that alters the function of the endocrine system, potentially leading to adverse health effects. These chemicals are prevalent in our environment, leading to daily exposure through contaminated food, polluted air, and even direct skin contact.

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can affect the body in various ways. They may bind to hormone receptors such as oestrogen, androgen, or progesterone, disrupting normal hormonal function. They can also act through non-genomic pathways, affecting G-protein-coupled receptors and causing oxidative stress, genetic mutations, and epigenetic changes like DNA methylation.

BPA and Its Impact on PCOS

Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the most common endocrine disruptors, used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. These materials are found in everything from plastic bottles and food packaging to thermal receipt paper and household dust. BPA is pervasive in the environment, and our main exposure comes through ingesting contaminated food and drinks, as well as through skin contact and inhalation.

A significant review published in 2023 found that women with PCOS had higher levels of BPA in their plasma, urine, and follicular fluid compared to women without PCOS. These elevated BPA levels have been linked to a range of PCOS-related symptoms, including:

• Insulin resistance

• Polycystic ovaries (as seen on ultrasound)

• Increased androgen levels (like testosterone)

• Liver issues (such as fatty liver)

• Chronic inflammation

Conversely, BPA has been negatively correlated with markers of ovarian reserve and hormone-binding proteins, suggesting it could harm fertility and hormone regulation in women with PCOS.

How to Reduce BPA Exposure in the UK

Reducing your exposure to BPA and other endocrine disruptors is especially important for women with PCOS. Here are some practical steps to help limit your contact with these harmful chemicals:

• Use BPA-free products: Always opt for products labeled as BPA-free, especially when buying containers for food and drink. UK law also prohibits the use of BPA in baby bottles and beakers.

• Avoid plastic containers: Choose glass, stainless steel, or porcelain containers instead of plastic, particularly for storing hot food and liquids.

• Avoid microwaving plastic: Heating plastic in the microwave can cause it to break down, releasing BPA into your food.

• Minimize takeaway food: Takeaway meals are often packaged in plastics that may contain BPA, so try to limit how often you eat out.

• Opt for BPA-free canned foods: Many cans are lined with BPA-based resins. Look for brands that use BPA-free linings, such as Biona, Mr Organic, or Organic Kitchen.

• Check recycling codes: Avoid plastics with the recycling code "7," as these may contain bisphenols like BPA.

• Eat fresh, whole foods: Processed and packaged foods are more likely to be contaminated with endocrine disruptors, so aim for fresh fruits, vegetables, and unprocessed items.

• Eat lower on the food chain: Chemicals can accumulate in the fat cells of animals, so consuming more plant-based foods may reduce your exposure.

• Wash your hands: After handling plastics or receipts, wash your hands to minimize the transfer of chemicals.

• Filter your water: Consider using a carbon filter jug or a reverse osmosis system to remove contaminants, including BPA, from your drinking water.

By making small changes, you can reduce your exposure to endocrine disruptors like BPA and potentially improve your hormonal health, especially if you have PCOS.