Endocrine Disruptors List: 12 Everyday Sources That May Affect Breast Health

Hormonal balance plays a vital role in every aspect of women’s health. From mood and metabolism to fertility and breast tissue health, hormones are part of the female body’s intricate communication system. However, modern environments expose us to chemicals that can interfere with these natural signals.

These chemicals, known as endocrine disruptors, can mimic, block, or interfere with hormone activity in the body. Exposure has been linked to hormonal imbalances, fertility challenges, and even an increased risk of breast and thyroid concerns. (1)

Understanding how to reduce exposure is empowering. Making informed choices about your food, water, and household products can support hormone balance and breast health, especially during midlife, when natural hormonal shifts already occur.

In this article, I outline the top 12 everyday sources of endocrine disruptors and offer practical, AIP-friendly strategies to minimize contact and protect your long-term health.

What Are Endocrine Disruptors?

Endocrine disruptors are synthetic or natural chemicals that interfere with the endocrine system. They can bind to hormone receptors and imitate hormones such as estrogen, or they can block hormone activity altogether. Over time, this interference can disrupt metabolism, immunity, and reproductive function. (2)

Women with a family history of autoimmune disease or breast cancer may be more sensitive to these effects. Research shows that hormonal disruption can influence immune balance and cellular growth in breast tissue. (3)

Common sources include plastics, personal care products, pesticides, and industrial chemicals. Even small exposures, when combined over time, can create cumulative effects on the body. These substances are now widely studied due to their potential toxic effects on hormones and long-term health.

Endocrine Disruptors List: 12 Everyday Sources

1. Bisphenol A (BPA)

Found in: Plastics, canned foods, and store receipts.
BPA can mimic estrogen and interfere with hormonal signaling, affecting how the body manages estrogen metabolism over time. It leaches into food and beverages, especially when plastic containers are heated.
Tips: Choose BPA-free products, use glass or stainless steel containers, and avoid microwaving plastic.

2. Phthalates

Found in: Personal care products, fragrances, and soft plastics.
Phthalates are used to make plastics flexible and to preserve scents in cosmetics. Studies link them to reduced fertility and hormonal disruption, especially concerning for those wondering what are xenoestrogens and how these substances mimic natural hormones. (4)
Tips: Use fragrance-free or phthalate-free cosmetics and cleaning products.

3. Parabens

Found in: Shampoos, lotions, and makeup.
Parabens act as preservatives but can mimic estrogen in the body. They have been identified in breast tissue samples, raising concerns among health authorities and consumers alike about their potential connection to hormone-related diseases such as breast cancer.
Tips: Select paraben-free skin and hair care products.

4. Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)

Found in: Old electrical equipment and contaminated fish.
Although banned in many countries, PCBs persist in the environment. They accumulate in fatty tissues and can affect hormone balance.
Tips: Avoid high-risk fish such as farmed salmon and bluefish. Dispose of old electronics through proper recycling programs.

5. Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs)

Found in: Nonstick cookware and stain-resistant fabrics.
These chemicals are known to disrupt thyroid and reproductive hormones. They also linger in the environment for years, prompting authorities to assess and implement stricter regulations.
Tips: Use stainless steel or cast iron cookware and avoid stain-resistant sprays.

6. Atrazine

Found in: Herbicides and contaminated water.
Atrazine is a common agricultural chemical associated with hormonal disruption and reproductive effects. (5)
Tips: Filter tap water using a high-quality carbon filter and buy organic produce when possible.

7. Dioxins

Found in: Charred foods and industrial emissions.
Dioxins form during certain combustion processes and accumulate in the food chain. They can disrupt estrogen metabolism and immune function.
Tips: Limit consumption of charred meats and support sustainable, organic farming practices.

8. Triclosan

Found in: Antibacterial soaps and some toothpastes.
Triclosan can interfere with thyroid hormones and contribute to antibiotic resistance. It has been identified by several authorities as a toxic chemical that should be phased out through better regulation.
Tips: Use standard soap and water for handwashing. Check product labels and avoid triclosan-containing formulas.

9. Glyphosate

Found in: Herbicides and conventional crops.
Glyphosate residues can disrupt gut health and hormone function. It is among the most widely used agricultural substances, now under global assessment for potential endocrine-disrupting effects.
Tips: Wash produce thoroughly and choose organic options whenever available.

10. Flame Retardants (PBDEs)

Found in: Furniture, mattresses, and electronics.
These chemicals can interfere with thyroid hormones and accumulate in household dust.
Tips: Choose PBDE-free furniture and vacuum with a HEPA filter regularly.

11. Oxybenzone

Found in: Chemical sunscreens.
Oxybenzone acts as a UV filter but can mimic estrogen and may increase oxidative stress in skin cells. Some experts now recommend mammogram alternatives alongside reducing toxic exposures to support breast health and early detection.
Tips: Use mineral-based sunscreens containing non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide instead.

12. Heavy Metals (Mercury, Lead, Cadmium)

Found in: Contaminated seafood, old paints, and water supplies.
Heavy metals can disrupt enzyme function and increase oxidative stress, which impacts hormonal health. These have been identified as some of the most toxic endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDC) by environmental authorities.
Tips: Limit high-mercury fish such as swordfish, use filtered water, and avoid older homes with lead-based paint.

How to Support Breast Health and Reduce Exposure

Reducing exposure to endocrine disruptors begins with everyday choices.

• Choose organic produce. Organic farming limits pesticide use and reduces chemical exposure.

• Avoid plastic containers. Store food in glass or stainless steel.

• Use natural cleaning and beauty products. Look for products labeled phthalate-free, paraben-free, and fragrance-free.

• Support liver health. The liver helps detoxify and eliminate harmful compounds. Include foods such as cruciferous vegetables, wild-caught salmon, and fresh herbs. For added support, consider Liver Support to promote natural detoxification pathways.

• Support estrogen metabolism. Ingredients such as DIM and calcium D-glucarate help balance estrogen levels. EstroProtect provides targeted nutrients to promote healthy estrogen metabolism.

• Stay active. Regular exercise supports lymphatic flow and hormone balance.

• Manage stress. Chronic stress impacts hormone production and detoxification efficiency.

For more information and support on breast cancer, I encourage you to take a listen to the episode Take Back Your Health™ podcast with Dr. Jenn Simmons. We explore the importance of addressing root causes of cancer, nutrition, and lifestyle choices for breast health, and the revolutionary technology redefining breast cancer screening.

Take Control of Your Hormonal Health

Reducing endocrine disruptor exposure is one of the most powerful steps you can take to protect breast health and hormonal balance. Begin by making one small change, such as switching to a glass water bottle, upgrading your skincare, or choosing organic produce. Over time, these small shifts add up.

Your body has an incredible capacity to heal and rebalance when given the right support. Nourish your liver, and focus on clean, nutrient-rich foods. Together, we can take back control of our health, one informed choice at a time.