Diet and exercise are important for weight loss and management, but some people may not realise the part endocrine disruptors play in their size.
A doctor shared five everyday items that could be sabotaging your weight loss efforts.
Using common items such as plastic containers, non-stick cookware and air freshers could be damaging your waistline, according to Professor Franklin Joseph of Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic.
He said: “Many people are unaware that certain everyday items contain chemicals known as endocrine disruptors.
Plastic bottles can be full of chemicals
PA
“These substances can interfere with your hormones, making it harder to lose weight and easier to gain it.”
The chemicals can affect the metabolism, which controls how quickly fat is burned in the body. A review article published in 2021 looked at the link between these factors and obesity.
It said: “Exposure to EDCs has been causally linked with obesity in model organisms and associated with obesity occurrence in humans.
“Endocrine hormones such as insulin, thyroid hormone, estrogens and androgens are well known to regulate pathways that control the number and size of adipocytes and a variety of peptide hormones regulate appetite and satiety.
“The endocrine system ultimately modulates function in tissues that regulate weight and metabolism.” The doctor listed five things you may use regularly that could contain endocrine disruptors.
Plastic containers and bottles
“Plastic products, especially those containing BPA, can mimic oestrogen in the body, leading to hormonal imbalances,” the doctor advised.
“These imbalances can cause your body to store more fat, particularly around the midsection.” The expert recommended switching to glass or stainless steel containers for storing food and drinks. This could reduce your exposure to BPA and help prevent these disruptions.
Non-stick cookware
Professor Franklin said non-stick pans often contain PFOA, a chemical linked to weight gain.
He said: “Cooking with non-stick cookware at high temperatures can release these chemicals into your food, disrupting your metabolism.” Use cast iron or stainless steel cookware as safer alternatives that won’t interfere with your metabolic health.
Air fresheners and scented candles
“Phthalates, commonly found in air fresheners and scented candles, can disrupt thyroid function, which plays a critical role in regulating your metabolism,” Professor Franklin warned.
“This disruption can contribute to weight gain over time.” He added, that by choosing natural air fresheners instead, such as essential oils, and unscented candles made from soy or beeswax, this can help maintain healthier thyroid function.
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Personal care products
The doctor highlighted many shampoos, lotions and other personal care items contain parabens and triclosan. These chemicals can interfere with hormones like oestrogen and testosterone.
“These hormonal imbalances can make it harder to shed excess fat,” he warned. Choosing products labelled ‘paraben-free’ and ‘phthalate-free’ can help you avoid these endocrine disruptors and support better weight management.
Canned foods
“Canned foods are often lined with BPA-containing resins, which can leach into the food, especially when heated,” Professor Joseph said.
“This can lead to hormonal disruptions that promote fat storage.” To reduce this risk, the expert advises opting for fresh or frozen foods, or selecting BPA-free cans whenever possible.
“These small changes in your everyday life can make a big difference in your overall health and weight management. By minimising your exposure to these harmful chemicals, you’re taking proactive steps toward better long-term results.”
