Environmental Toxins
What are environmental toxins?
Environmental toxins are substances that have been created by large industries and carelessness. Although these toxins are undetectable until a serious medical condition occurs, they pose serious health risks to everyone who is exposed to them. Unfortunately, only 5% of all these known toxins have been studied to determine the effect they have on the human reproductive system.
What effect do environmental toxins have on fertility?
Depending on the type of chemical and the amount of exposure, certain toxins can have a severe effect on fertility.
Here are a few of the most common environmental toxins and their impact on conception:
1. Pesticides – This particular toxin is very commonly found on agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables. Pesticides are responsible for a reduced sperm count in men and for a condition in women in which your own body attacks the sperm and/or egg.
2. Car Exhaust — A common compound found in car exhaust is benzo(a)pyrene (BaP). This compound has been shown to cause a 33% decrease in ovarian weight and a reduction in ovulation.
3. Food Additives — MSG or Monosodium Glutamate is a popular food additive that has been linked to infertility problems.
4. Household Chemicals — Common cleaning products such as bug sprays, carpet cleaners, bathroom cleansers, furniture polish, and upholstery shampoos contain harmful chemicals that can decrease the ability to conceive.
5. Lead – Used less commonly today than in years past, lead can cause a decrease in the reproductive capabilities of both men and women. In addition, lead is responsible for irregular menstrual cycles.
6. Estrogen Imposters — For conception to occur the body needs to maintain a certain level of estrogen (the female sex hormone) and some chemicals such as PVC plastic and butylated hydroxyanisole , when absorbed by the body, mimic estrogen and give the impression that there are high levels of this hormone in the body. This imbalance can impact fertility.
7. Bisphenol A — This is a compound that is used to package food, make plastics, and coats the inside of aluminum cans and is responsible for decreasing the division of uterine cells. This decrease can prevent the embryo from implanting to the uterus.
8. Phthalates – Commonly found in many cosmetics, this particular chemical is responsible for causing irregularities in ovulation and decreased sperm count and quality.
Is there anything I can do to reduce my risk of exposure to environmental toxins and increase by fertility?
Yes! Although you can’t completely eliminate all toxins from your environment and your body, there are certain things you can do to reduce your exposure.
~ Buy and eat organic fruits and vegetables as much as possible.
~ Avoid using pesticides on your own lawn and plants.
~ Always work in a well ventilated area or wear a face mask/ventilator when working in an environment that exposes you to toxins. This includes doing any home repairs or painting.
~ Use natural, organic personal care products.
~ Buy organic, non-toxic household cleaning supplies.
~ Avoid chlorine, ammonia, BPA, PVC, mercury, and PFC.
~ Consult with your doctor about a safe and effective detoxification program that can rid your body of any toxins that are currently present.
The Numbers Don’t Lie:
Women who are repeatedly exposed to pesticides are 30% less likely to conceive in any given month than those who are not exposed.
During a study conducted at the Northeastern University of Illinois in Chicago found that rats who were fed MSG prior to mating have a less than 50% success rate of conception.
Common household chemicals can be linked to a 33% decrease in conception.
