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What's the Deal with Obesogens?

Published August 05, 2015

Obesogens are becoming very well known as science continues to uncover the many man-made endocrine disruptors prevalent in our environment. When we refer to obesogens, we're referring to the dozens of endocrine disruptors that play a role in obesity. The effects of obesogens on lipid metabolism have been studied intensely over the past few years, with research showing that uncontrolled weight gain may have hidden contributors that go well beyond the simple "calorie in, calorie out" rhetoric. Chemicals from plastics, like BPA, are known obesogens, and these chemicals pollute our waterways and pervade our homes.

Obesogens: A Worldwide Issue

A closer look at amphibians and the many endocrine disrupting chemicals in their environment is showing how obesogens translate to human health, particularly when it relates to metabolic disorder. ^[1] Since many chemicals from pollution and man-made items end up in the water supply, it isn't surprising to see drastic changes in fish and other aquatic mammals. These life forms receive abundant doses of PCBs, PBDEs, and other chemicals, much more so than we receive, but it does lead us to some insight into their effects. Some obesogens not only contribute to altered lipid metabolism in ocean dwellers, but it has also shown gender-bending qualities among fish. ^[2]

Research is showing that obesogenic effects can be transferred from mother to child, revealing why some people may be born with metabolic dysfunction from the start. Findings like this display the importance of avoiding chemicals during pregnancy. ^[3] The plastics industry is a heavy user of obesogenic chemicals, many of which are used in furniture, food storage, and building materials. ^[4] While completely eliminating chemical exposure is probably not realistic, incorporating specific strategies for avoidance and detoxification can be helpful.

How to Combat Obesogens

Fortunately, obesogens may not be permanent in their effects. Avoidance of chemicals as much as possible, eating an organic diet, and drinking pure, filtered water goes a long way. Definitely avoid all plastics, including those that use BPA or BPS. Performing a regular cleansing protocol may also be helpful for relieving the toxic burden that ineluctably accumulates over time. Taking a high-quality probiotic could also strengthen defenses against invasive endocrine disruptors.

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM