By some estimates, environmental factors may be the cause of 24% of human diseases and disorders around the world, according to the Endocrine Society.¹ Moreover, such factors play "a role in 80% of the deadliest diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and others.”¹ 

Hormone-disrupting chemicals (endocrine-disrupting chemicals or EDCs) include both natural and artificial compounds that interfere with or mimic the body's hormonal system, contributing to various health concerns. The Endocrine Society suggests that environmental EDCs may contribute to a number of hormone-based disorders, such as diabetes, reproductive and neurological disorders, inflammation, and compromised immune function.¹

Endocrine disruptors may also have a significant impact on hormone balance in menopause. Because menopausal symptoms significantly impact the quality of life for many women, understanding and mitigating the effects of EDC exposure is crucial.  

Understanding how endocrine-disrupting chemicals affect hormone balance is especially important during menopause, when hormonal shifts can amplify their impact.

In this blog, we’ll explore how EDC exposure may influence menopausal symptoms, where these disruptors are commonly found, how to test for them, and what clinical strategies can help reduce their effects and support healthier outcomes.

Table of Contents

What Are Endocrine Disruptors?  

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals may be synthetic or naturally occurring compounds. These chemicals are found in everyday products such as cosmetics, food and beverage packaging, pesticides, plastics, household cleaners, carpets, consumer goods, and industrial materials. Exposure often occurs through skin contact, inhalation, diet, and water consumption.  

EDCs interfere with the endocrine system by mimicking a hormone that tricks a cell's hormone receptors. Hormones are natural chemicals in the body that act as chemical messengers, regulating essential bodily functions such as metabolism, reproduction, stress response, and homeostasis.  

EDCs disrupt hormone balance by binding to receptors and either increasing or blocking natural hormonal activity. This can trigger a hormone response and disrupt normal hormonal processes.²

How EDCs Disrupt Hormone Regulation in Menopause

Hormones regulate everything from fertility and pregnancy to growth, metabolism, and menopause. In particular, during menopause, estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate dramatically. Exposure to endocrine disruptors during this time is especially concerning.  

Research suggests that EDCs can intensify menopausal symptoms, making the transition from perimenopause to menopause more challenging.  

Common symptoms of menopause include:  

• Hot flashes  

• Mood swings  

• Osteoporosis and joint pain  

• Anxiety and depression  

• Insomnia  

• Dry, itchy skin  

EDC exposure may also accelerate reproductive aging and increase the risk of chronic conditions such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, anxiety, and depression. The interaction of environmental toxins and hormones affects menopause in several ways. 

Estrogen Disruption and Xenoestrogens 

The hormone estrogen plays a vital role in reproductive health, bone density, cardiovascular function, and cognitive processes. EDCs can interfere with estrogen levels in two primary ways:  

• Mimicking Estrogen (Agonistic Effect): Xenoestrogens are a specific class of EDCs that structurally resemble natural estrogen and bind to its receptors. These chemicals include bisphenol A (BPA) in plastics, parabens in cosmetics, and phthalates in personal care products. Prolonged exposure can lead to estrogen dominance, defined as too much estrogen relative to progesterone, which contributes to irregular periods, weight gain, uterine fibroids, breast tenderness, headaches, bloating, and disrupted estrogen feedback loops.  

• Blocking Estrogen Receptors (Antagonistic Effect): Certain pesticides and industrial chemicals bind to estrogen receptors without activating them, leading to symptoms of estrogen deficiency, such as dry skin, hot flashes, mood swings, decreased libido, and bone loss.  

Progesterone Disruption  

Progesterone helps balance estrogen, protect the uterine lining, and regulate mood and sleep. EDCs can interfere with progesterone by:  

• Reducing Progesterone Synthesis: Chemicals like atrazine, an herbicide, can inhibit progesterone production, worsening symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, irritability, and estrogen dominance.  

• Blocking Progesterone Receptors: Some EDCs prevent progesterone from exerting its calming effects, heightening cortisol levels, and exacerbating PMS-like symptoms, irregular cycles, and mood instability.  

Cortisol Dysregulation  

Cortisol, produced by the adrenal glands, regulates stress, blood pressure, metabolism, and immune function. During menopause, the adrenal glands take over some estrogen production, making adrenal health even more critical.  

EDCs can disrupt cortisol balance by interfering with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to:  

• Increased stress response  

• Blood sugar imbalances  

• Sleep disturbances   

The Cumulative Toxic Burden and Its Impact on Metabolism and Neurological Health  

In addition to the specific impacts on the reproductive hormone system, EDCs contribute to an overall toxic burden that disrupts multiple systems in the body. Over time, chronic exposure can lead to:  

• Metabolic Dysfunction: Increased insulin resistance, weight gain (especially around the midsection), and difficulty maintaining muscle mass 

• Neurological Effects: Increased risk of anxiety, brain fog, mood swings, and cognitive decline due to the impact on neurotransmitters and brain function  

How Endocrine Disruptors Affect Menopausal Symptoms 

Limited research exists on EDC exposure and its relation to menopausal symptoms. However, because EDCs interfere with hormone production, metabolism, and signaling, they contribute to imbalances that can worsen symptoms like hot flashes and sleep disturbances. 

Key Menopausal Symptoms Affected by Toxic Exposure  

The cumulative impact of EDCs on hormonal balance can worsen several common menopausal symptoms:  

• Vasomotor Symptoms: Xenoestrogens can cause unpredictable fluctuations in estrogen levels, intensifying vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats.  

• Mood Swings and Anxiety: Certain endocrine disruptors interfere with neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, increasing susceptibility to anxiety, depression, and mood swings.⁹ 

• Brain Fog and Cognitive Decline: Some chemicals, particularly those found in plastics and pesticides, have neurotoxic effects that can worsen memory, focus, and overall cognitive function.⁸

Testing for Hormone Imbalances in Menopause  

With advanced functional hormone testing, care providers can zoom in on the root cause of hormone balance rather than treating each symptom individually. Vibrant Wellness's essential tests for toxic overload and hormone imbalances in menopausal women can help identify underlying hormonal imbalances that may contribute to symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, weight gain, and hot flashes.  

Advanced testing technology allows providers to take a functional medicine approach to hormone balance and give their patients more personalized nutrition and lifestyle interventions. The following tests are beneficial for evaluating environmental toxins and their impact on hormonal health, particularly for menopausal women.

1. Total Tox Burden  

The Total Tox Burden test assesses the exposure to environmental toxins and metabolic stress. Toxins can persist in the body for many years by breaking down very slowly or not breaking down at all. This may cause greater susceptibility to infections or the buildup of other toxins over time, leading to oxidative stress and compromised immunity.  

This test helps determine how the body's toxic burden impacts menopause. It helps providers develop a personalized detox and wellness plan to help ensure better health for their menopausal patients.   

2. Hormone Zoomer

The Hormone Zoomer is a comprehensive urine test that measures adrenal and sex hormones, including estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA-S, and cortisol, along with their key metabolites. It also assesses endocrine-disrupting chemicals and bone health markers to provide a fuller picture of hormone-related risk during menopause.  

This panel helps providers identify patterns in hormone production, metabolism, and clearance, while also highlighting environmental exposures that may be contributing to imbalances. It’s especially useful for evaluating estrogen methylation efficiency, adrenal function, and cortisol rhythm. The Hormone Zoomer includes personalized supplement suggestions based on lab results and symptom questionnaires to help guide targeted nutrition and lifestyle planning.

3. Salivary Hormones Panel

Salivary hormone testing provides a non-invasive way to assess bioavailable levels of cortisol and DHEA-S, two key markers of adrenal function. This test is especially useful for evaluating diurnal cortisol patterns and identifying HPA axis imbalances that may worsen during menopause. 

Chronic stress and toxic burden can disrupt cortisol regulation, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, and mood swings. Salivary testing offers real-time insight into how stress hormones fluctuate throughout the day, helping providers fine-tune lifestyle and therapeutic strategies for adrenal support. 

Strategies for Reducing Endocrine Disruptor Exposure & Supporting Hormone Balance  

Exposure to EDCs is one factor that may influence hormone balance during menopause. These chemicals in everyday products can interfere with estrogen, progesterone, and other key hormones.  

These actionable strategies can reduce EDC exposure, support detoxification, and enhance hormonal health.  

Reducing Exposure to Endocrine Disruptors  

Making small but intentional changes to the diet, personal care routine, and home environment can significantly lower exposure to harmful chemicals.  

 Dietary Changes 

• Choose fresh, organic foods whenever possible, especially for high-pesticide produce (refer to the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists).  

• Filter tap water to help reduce the exposure to heavy metals, chlorine, and BPA.  

• Avoid plastic containers, bottles, and packaging — opt for glass or stainless steel to prevent exposure to BPA and phthalates.  

• Limit fast food and other ultra-processed foods, which may contain EDCs, especially from the packaging.   

Personal Care Product Swaps 

• Look for fragrance-free products to avoid phthalates.  

• Use paraben- and sulfate-free shampoos, lotions, and cosmetics whenever possible.  

• Switch to natural deodorants without aluminum.  

• Choose mineral-based sunscreens over chemical ones.  

Home Environment Modifications 

• Replace plastic food storage with glass or silicone.  

• Use non-toxic cleaning products or alternatives like vinegar and baking soda.  

• Reduce synthetic fragrance exposure by switching to essential oil diffusers instead of air fresheners.  

• Choose low-VOC paints and furniture to minimize indoor air pollution.  

• Use an air filter at home to filter air particulate matter that contains EDCs. 

Detoxification Strategies for High Toxic Burden  

If lab testing such as Vibrant Wellness's total tox burden test indicates a high toxic burden, targeted detoxification strategies can help eliminate stored toxins.  

 Support Liver Detoxification  

• Sulfur-rich foods such as eggs, beef, turkey, fish, nuts, seeds, whole grains, legumes, garlic, onions, and shallots increase glutathione production.   

• Eat high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support regular bowel movements and toxin elimination.   

• Hydrate with filtered water and herbal teas to aid detox pathways.  

Read this blog to learn more about supporting detoxification through nutrition.

Encourage Toxin Elimination Through Sweat & Movement  

• Regular exercise such as walking or yoga helps with circulation and lymphatic drainage.  

• Use an infrared sauna or warm Epsom salt baths to promote sweating and toxin release.  

Read this blog to learn about the role of detoxification in supporting female athletes.

Optimize Gut Health  

• Consume fermented foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir, kombucha, yogurt, tempeh, and miso to support microbiome balance.  

• Include prebiotic fiber in foods like dandelion greens, Jerusalem artichokes, garlic, leeks, and onions to nourish beneficial gut bacteria that assist with detoxification.  

Read this blog to learn more about healing hormones through gut health.

Nutritional and Lifestyle Interventions for Hormone Balance in Menopause  

Beyond reducing EDC exposure, key dietary and lifestyle habits can further support hormonal health.  

Consume Protein & Healthy Fats  

• Aim for 20-30g of protein per meal to support the maintenance of lean muscle tissue and metabolic health.  

• To reduce inflammation, include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as wild-caught salmon, mackerel, walnuts, and ground flaxseed.  

Balance Blood Sugar  

• Eat a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fiber, protein, and healthy fats to prevent spikes in insulin.   

• Limit refined sugars and processed carbs as much as possible.  

Prioritize Restorative Sleep & Stress Management  

• Follow a consistent sleep routine, aiming for 7-9 hours per night.  

• Incorporate mindfulness, deep breathing, or gentle yoga to manage cortisol and support adrenal health.  

Recognizing Endocrine Disruptors To Improve Menopause Symptoms 

Menopausal women face unique challenges due to fluctuating hormones. Exposure to endocrine disruptors can exacerbate symptoms.  

Lifestyle changes, dietary interventions, and safer personal care choices can significantly reduce the impact of EDCs and enhance long-term health outcomes. By minimizing EDC exposure, adopting functional testing, and implementing detoxification strategies, providers can help their patients navigate menopause with improved hormonal balance and overall well-being.  

About the Author

Leslie Weidner is a dedicated and passionate registered dietitian nutritionist with over a decade of experience in nutrition and dietetics. As the founder of Leslie Weidner Nutrition, a virtual nutrition coaching business, she specializes in guiding women through the complex journey of perimenopause, helping them navigate hormonal changes with personalized nutrition plans and lifestyle adjustments. Over the past five years, Leslie has empowered dozens of women to make sustainable, healthy habit changes.

References:  

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The general wellness test intended uses relate to sustaining or offering general improvement to functions associated with a general state of health while making reference to diseases or conditions. This test has been laboratory developed and its performance characteristics determined by Vibrant America LLC and Vibrant Genomics, a CLIA-certified and CAP-accredited laboratory performing the test. The lab tests referenced have not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Although FDA does not currently clear or approve laboratory-developed tests in the U.S., certification of the laboratory is required under CLIA to ensure the quality and validity of the test.