Your thyroid gland is a part of the endocrine system and is responsible for producing several hormones that help manage energy levels, metabolism, and much more. When the thyroid is healthy and working properly, the systems in your body work together seamlessly. When the thyroid is exposed to toxins, it can begin to malfunction and cause a number of health issues. Let’s read here 6 toxins that threaten thyroid health!
Toxins Harming Your Thyroid Health
Toxins are found throughout our environment. They can be found in our food supply, our water supply, our household products, and our personal care items. It is almost impossible to eliminate all exposure to toxins; however, you can limit your exposure, thus minimizing the risk of experiencing health issues. You should use an iodine supplement and limit your exposure to the following six toxins that harm the thyroid gland.
Heavy Metals – Most people have heard about the dangers of lead; however, there are numerous other heavy metals that can negatively impact the thyroid gland. These include aluminum, cadmium, lead, and mercury.
In the past, lead was used in paint and gasoline. Cheap jewelry and children’s toys can contain lead. Cadmium is found in plastics, certain fertilizers, pigments, sewage, and batteries. Aluminum and mercury disrupt iodine uptake. Mercury can be found in dental fillings and seafood. Aluminum is used in cookware, vaccines, deodorant, antacids, and certain food additives. As you can see, in today’s world, we are constantly exposed to heavy metals in our daily life.
Herbicides and Pesticides – Herbicides and pesticides are used in industrial farming and are hard to avoid. One way to reduce the risk of consuming foods that contain pesticides and herbicides is to choose organic foods. Unfortunately, because of runoff, herbicides and pesticides can enter our water supply.
Herbicides and pesticides reduce the thyroid’s ability to use iodine. These chemicals have been associated with an increased risk of hypothyroidism. Pesticides and herbicides cause excess thyroid hormone to be removed from the body. The more herbicides and pesticides that you are exposed to, the higher your risk of developing thyroid issues.
Flame Retardants – The chemical used to reduce the flammability of fabrics, clothing, furniture, and carpeting can cause thyroid dysregulation. Flame retardants contain bromine (halogen) which mimic thyroid hormone and are transported in the blood competing to attach to thyroid hormone receptors. Bromine, the chemical found in flame retardants, can be found in pool cleaners, pasta, drinks, and everything in between.
BPA – BPA is an industrial chemical that is used during the manufacturing of plastics and epoxy resins. BPA is used in commonly used food storage containers and beverage containers like water bottles. BPA is also used in the epoxy used to line metal food cans, water supply lines, and bottle caps. Finally, BPA can be found in certain dental composites and sealants.
BPA exposure can cause a plethora of health problems. In addition to damaging the thyroid gland, BPA exposure can cause cardiovascular problems (hypertension, heart attack, peripheral artery disease, and coronary artery disease), reproductive disorders (infertility, libido, and impotence), and an increased risk of breast and prostate cancer. In addition to this, BPA can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, weight gain, and an increased risk of asthma and wheezing.
Fluoride – Many people are surprised to learn that fluoride can disrupt the thyroid gland. Although fluoride is added to water to prevent cavities, it can damage your thyroid health. Research has shown that consuming as little as two to five milligrams of fluoride over a few months can lower thyroid functions. Unfortunately, that is about the amount of fluoride that you drink in fluoridated water each day. Therefore, drinking fluoridated water could possibly lower your thyroid function.
PFCs – PFCs (perfluorinated chemicals) disrupt thyroid function, especially in women. PFCs are used in the manufacturing process of several items, including takeout containers, pizza boxes, and even certain mattresses. PFC is an endocrine disruptor that takes the body a long time to break down. Although PFCs are being phased out in the United States, an imported product could still contain PFCs.
Toxicity Questionnaire
The Toxicity Screening Questionnaire helps identify symptoms that are useful to detect underlying causes of illnesses.
Although it is practically impossible to avoid exposure to all toxins, you can help minimize your exposure with the following tips. As you reduce toxin exposure, your thyroid will begin functioning better. Follow these tips to reduce exposure and improve your thyroid health.
Avoid using herbicides and pesticides in your home and yard
Use a water filter for your drinking and bathwater
To help protect your health and improve your well-being, you need to ensure that your thyroid is as healthy as possible. Eat a well-rounded diet filled with organic fruits and vegetables and opt for filtered, purified water.
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