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Let's talk about Toxins, where they are found and the big words they cause like Endocrine and Carcinogen ....

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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