Our bodies are delicate systems, and even the smallest things can throw them off balance. One example is a group of chemicals known as thyroid disruptors.

These are substances that interfere with the function of our thyroid gland, which plays a crucial role in regulating our metabolism, growth, and development.

What Is the Thyroid Gland?

The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck. It produces hormones that regulate your metabolism, which is the process by which your body converts food into energy.

When your metabolism is functioning properly, you have the energy you need to carry out your daily activities.

But when there’s a problem with your metabolism, you may experience symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and depression.

What Are Thyroid Disruptors?

Thyroid disruptors are a group of chemicals that interfere with the function of the thyroid gland. They can cause the gland to produce too much or too little thyroid hormone, which can lead to a wide variety of health problems.

Some common thyroid disruptors include:.

Perchlorate, a chemical used in rocket fuel
Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical found in plastics
Phthalates, a group of chemicals used in many different products, including plastics, personal care products, and fragrances
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a group of chemicals that were once widely used in electrical equipment and other industrial applications

How Do Thyroid Disruptors Affect Your Health?

Thyroid disruptors can have a wide range of effects on your health. Here are some of the most common:.

Weight Gain And Difficulty Losing Weight

Since the thyroid regulates your metabolism, any disruption to its function can cause weight gain or difficulty losing weight.

This can be especially frustrating for people who are trying to lose weight through diet and exercise, but find that nothing seems to work.

Fatigue And Low Energy

A disrupted thyroid can also cause fatigue and low energy levels. This can make it difficult to get through the day, even with enough sleep and a healthy diet.

Mood Changes And Depression

When your thyroid isn’t working properly, it can affect your mood and even lead to depression. This is because thyroid hormones can help regulate the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood.

Developmental Delays In Children

For children, exposure to thyroid disruptors can also cause developmental delays. This is because the thyroid is crucial for proper growth and development, especially in the early years of life.

What Can You Do To Protect Yourself From Thyroid Disruptors?

While it’s impossible to completely avoid all thyroid disruptors, there are steps you can take to minimize your exposure:.

Eat A Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can help support your thyroid function. In particular, foods rich in iodine – such as seaweed, seafood, and dairy products – can help support thyroid health.

Use Safe Cosmetics And Personal Care Products

Many personal care products, such as shampoos, lotions, and fragrances, contain phthalates and other chemicals that can disrupt thyroid function.

Look for products that are labeled “phthalate-free” or “fragrance-free” to minimize your exposure.

Avoid Plastic Products

BPA and other chemicals can leach out of plastic products and into your food and beverages. Try to avoid using plastic containers and water bottles, and opt for glass or stainless steel instead.

Choose Safe Household Products

Many household products, such as cleaning sprays and air fresheners, contain chemicals that can disrupt thyroid function. Look for products that are labeled “green” or “eco-friendly” to minimize your exposure.

Get Regular Thyroid Screenings

It’s a good idea to get regular thyroid screenings, especially if you have a family history of thyroid problems or if you’ve been exposed to thyroid disruptors in your work or home environment.

Your doctor can perform simple blood tests to check your thyroid function and determine if there are any problems.