Estrogen Levels in Children

Processed foods disrupt natural hormone levels.

According to a study published in the Pediatrics Journal, children are exposed to many harmful chemicals that trigger excess estrogen levels. This causes a variety of physical problems for both boys and girls.

Causes

Dr. Susan Pinney from the University of Cincinnati explains that estrogen-mimicking chemicals are found in many different products such as plastics and canned-food liners. Phthalates, chemicals that are found in many scented lotions, also boost estrogen levels. Obese children often have hormone problems because estrogen is manufactured in fat cells.

Effects

Exposure to estrogens in the environment causes a variety of physical issues. In 2010 young girls began puberty as early as age 7. Dr. Robert Ferry from eMedicine warns that girls later develop problems such as ovarian cysts. Abnormal hormone exposure causes some children to take on characteristics of the opposite sex such as male breast development.

Prevention/Solution

Rodale recommends phasing out the use of plastics that leach into foods, avoiding products containing triclosan, a common ingredient found in antibacterial soaps, and eliminating scented laundry detergents and lotions. It also recommends purchasing fresh or frozen foods rather than canned products and incorporating more exercise into the child's schedule.

References

• Rodale: Early Puberty Linked to Everyday Chemicals
• eMedicine: Precocious Puberty
• eMedicine: Gynecomastia
• Pediatrics: The Role of Environmental Factors in the Timing of Puberty