How Environmental Toxins Can Lead to Weight Gain

Obesogens are synthetic, endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in our environment that are linked to susceptibility to weight gain and promotion of fat accumulation. At least 20 of these chemicals have been identified in our water, air, food, personal products and household products.

They are in most products that many of us are in contact with and use on an everyday basis. They impact our metabolism and alter fat storage by disrupting our hormones and changing the way fat cells develop.

Common obesogens are parabens, phthalates, BPA, PCBs, and BFOA. These are chemicals that are found in many products including:

• Herbicides

• Pesticides

• Non-stick cookware

• Microwave popcorn bags

• Plastic food and drink storage containers

• Plastic dinner ware

• Soil

• Building materials

• Water

• Cash register receipts

• Antibiotics

• Air fresheners

• Vinyl products/Shower curtains

• Detergents

• Paint

• Personal body care products and cosmetics

While it may not be possible to eliminate all exposure to these dangerous, hormone altering chemicals, you can take as many steps as possible to reduce your exposure.

How to Reduce your Obesogen Exposure:

• Eat only organic foods avoiding exposure to herbicides and pesticides.

• Eat only wild-caught fish and free-range meats to avoid antibiotic exposure.

• Avoid storing food and beverages in plastic containers to avoid phthalates and BPA exposure.

• Do not microwave your food in plastic containers or wrap.

• Use only organic and natural skin, body care and cosmetic products-read all ingredient labels.

• Look for BPA and Phthalate-free containers when purchasing foods such as canned items.

• Avoid air fresheners and items with artificial fragrances.

• Use a phthalate-free shower curtain.

• Use only stainless steel or cast-iron cookware to avoid exposure to BFOAs in non-stick cookware.

• Drink only filtered water from glass or stainless-steel water bottles.

Start by taking small steps to do what you can to eliminate your exposure to these obesogens. When your hormones are balanced and working properly, you are setting yourself up for good health and in conjunction with a nutritious diet, good stress management and healthy movement, a more sustainable weight loss.