by Elaina Wicks

Created on: January 19, 2011   Last Updated: February 08, 2011

Xenoestrogens are a synthetic version of the female hormone, estrogen.  Derived from the Greek word “Xeno,” meaning “foreign,” Xenoestrogens are a simulated chemical compound that mimic the function of estrogen in the human body.  Because these chemical compounds are not naturally produced, they can cause severe adverse environmental side effects to humans and wildlife.

When any kind of foreign substance is introduced into a natural environment, the environment can become unstable. This instability can cause negative reactions that will eventually lead to abnormalities or other serious destruction.  There has been significant research showing that the introduction of Xenoestrogens into our natural environment has caused a domino effect of “alterations” in not only wildlife, but may even be the main source of cancers and reproductive system malfunction in women.

Side Effects in Humans

Xenoestrogens can have a negative impact on both males and females.  Studies have shown that estrogen dominance can lead to an imbalance in hormone production.  An excess of estrogen can act as a free radical, which is linked to the growth of tumors and/or cancers.  Since xenoestrogens can be found in many foods, beauty products and plastics, it is very possible to obtain an overload of estrogen which will eventually disrupt hormonal balance.  Excess estrogen in women can lead to several reproductive ailments, including ovarian and breast cancer.  In men, too much estrogen has been linked to prostate and testicular cancer.

In addition, because xenoestrogens are a conglomerate of chemical compounds, they can have an adverse effect on the immune system and other vital organs, like the liver. The impact of hazardous chemicals on the human body is substantial and can be life threatening.

Side Effects in Wildlife

Wikipedia states that, “studies have implicated observations of disturbances in wildlife with estrogenic exposure.” In summary, because xenoestrogens can be passed through human waste, an over contamination of this synthetic hormone is present in our natural water sources.  Fish that have been exposed to an excess of estrogen have experienced specific reproductive “alterations.”  Abnormalities in the sex glands of fish can cause a disruption of natural and consistent reproduction.

Xenoestrogens Exposure

There are a staggering number of everyday products that

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