Let's talk about Toxins, where they are found and the big words they cause like Endocrine and Carcinogen ....
- naturalbehonest
- Jul 20
- 3 min read
Here is a quick reference list to those big words that we don't really understand.
Glossary of Common Toxins
Toxin | What It Is | Why It’s Harmful |
Phthalates | Plasticizers found in cosmetics, plastics, and fragrances | Endocrine disruptors; linked to infertility and hormone imbalance |
Parabens | Preservatives in beauty products and pharmaceuticals | Mimic estrogen; may contribute to breast cancer and fertility issues |
BPA (Bisphenol A) | Found in plastics, cans, and receipts | Hormone disruptor; associated with reproductive harm and metabolic issues |
Formaldehyde | Preservative in hair products and household goods | Carcinogen; causes skin and respiratory irritation |
Fragrance (Parfum) | Catch-all term for undisclosed chemical blends | May contain allergens, hormone disruptors, and phthalates |
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) | Foaming agent in soaps, shampoos, and toothpaste | Skin irritant; can strip natural oils and cause dryness |
Triclosan | Antibacterial chemical in soaps and toothpaste | Hormone disruptor; may contribute to antibiotic resistance |
BHT / BHA | Preservatives in food and cosmetics | Potential carcinogens; disrupt hormone function |
Talc (when contaminated with asbestos) | Used in powders and makeup | Potential link to ovarian cancer and respiratory issues |
PEGs (Polyethylene Glycols) | Emulsifiers in creams and personal care products | May be contaminated with carcinogenic compounds like 1,4-dioxane |
PFOA / PFAS | Found in non-stick cookware and water-resistant items | Persistent “forever chemicals” linked to cancer, immune issues, and fertility problems |
Heavy Metals (Lead, Mercury, etc.) | Found in cosmetics, water, and some food dyes | Neurotoxins; harmful to brain development and reproduction |
Artificial Colors (Red 40, Yellow 5/6, etc.) | Synthetic dyes in food and cosmetics | Linked to behavioral issues and possible carcinogenic effects |
TBHQ | Food preservative in processed snacks and frozen meals | Linked to immune system harm and potential tumor growth |
Mineral Oil / Petroleum-Based Oils | Derived from crude oil, used in moisturizers and makeup | May be contaminated with carcinogens; clogs pores |
Flame Retardants (PBDEs) | Found in furniture, mattresses, electronics | Hormone disruptors; harmful to fertility and brain development |
Methylisothiazolinone / Methylchloroisothiazolinone | Preservatives in shampoos and cleaners | Skin sensitizers; linked to allergic reactions and nervous system toxicity |
Glossary of Scientific Terms (in plain English)
Term | What It Means | Why It Matters |
Endocrine System | A network of glands that produce hormones to regulate functions like growth, mood, metabolism, and reproduction | Toxins that disrupt this system can mess with your hormones and fertility |
Endocrine Disruptor | A chemical that interferes with how hormones work in your body | Can lead to issues like infertility, early puberty, thyroid problems, and even cancer |
Hormones | Chemical messengers that control many bodily functions like mood, fertility, and metabolism | Even small changes in hormone levels can cause major health issues |
Mimic Estrogen | When a chemical acts like estrogen, a key hormone in both men and women | This can confuse your body’s natural hormonal balance and increase cancer risk |
Carcinogen | A substance known or suspected to cause cancer | Many toxins in beauty, food, and home products fall into this category |
Neurotoxin | A chemical that damages the brain or nervous system | Can impact memory, mood, focus, or even child development |
Reproductive Harm | When a chemical affects the ability to conceive or carry a healthy pregnancy | Can cause infertility, miscarriage, or birth defects |
Bioaccumulate | When a toxin builds up in the body over time rather than getting flushed out | Even small exposures can add up and cause health problems later on |
Persistent Chemical | A substance that doesn’t break down easily in the environment or your body | PFAS (forever chemicals) are a prime example — they stick around for years |
Allergen | A substance that can trigger an allergic reaction | Some people are especially sensitive to preservatives or fragrances in products |
Irritant | A chemical that causes inflammation or discomfort, especially on skin, eyes, or lungs | Often found in shampoos, soaps, and household cleaners |
Sensitizer | A chemical that might not bother you at first but causes a reaction after repeated exposure | Common in preservatives and fragrances — can lead to lifelong allergies |
Detox Pathways | The body’s natural systems (like the liver, kidneys, and skin) that remove toxins | Toxin overload can weaken these systems and make you feel unwell |
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