iThei mdcdaelcinfd o c elllllrllll cdt heChlorine
Chlorine-containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have been shown
to be toxic to thyroid cells and to promote the onset of Hashimoto’s
thyroiditis. Studies show PCBs increase TSH, thyroid autoantibodies,
and thyroid size. In addition to industrial products, chlorine is found in
water systems, pools, cleaning products, and plastics. It is also found in
the crop pesticide organochlorine, which accelerates thyroid hormone
elimination and can play a role in autoimmunity.
Xenoestrogens
Xenoestrogens are endocrine-disrupting chemicals that mimic the effects
of estrogen and include soy, BPA, phthalates, and parabens. The con-
tinued use and accumulation of these substances may lead to estrogen
dominance and can have a profound impact on the immune system and
adrenal and thyroid function as well as causing birth defects, infertility,
and cancers.
Soy isoflavones are found in many processed foods as well as some supple-
ments. Always be sure to read your food and vitamin packaging. Better
yet, avoid all processed food like the plague!
BPA (bisphenol-A) is found in plastics such as containers, baby formula
cans, and even in the coating of store register receipts. It has been linked
to cancers as well as reproductive and developmental disorders. BPA also
antagonizes T3 receptors, essentially shutting them down. You should
look for “BPA-free” plastic products. The best option is to avoid cooking
or storing your food in plastics.
Phthalates are found in many detergents, laundry products, and washable
items. In addition, they are present in cosmetics, plastics, moisturizers,
soaps, house paint, and perfumes. Implicated in cancers, endocrine disrup-
tion, diabetes, and obesity, phthalates may be listed on product packaging
(e.g., diethyl phthalate), or they may be disguised under the word “fra-
grance.” Check the ingredient list of your beauty products and only use
those that do not contain dibutyl phthalate (DBP). Avoid using personal
care products, detergents, and cleansers that contain “fragrance” in the in-
gredient list as this usually denotes phthalate ester (DEP).
Triclosan is found in antibacterial soaps, deodorants, hairsprays, and
toothpastes. The structure of triclosan resembles the structure of thy-
roid hormones and has been associated with altered levels of thyroid hor-
mone in animals. Avoid the use of “antibacterial” products. They are not