EP 13 // Obesogens: Chemicals Fueling Fat Storage

  • In this episode, we dive into the hidden world of obesogens—chemicals that disrupt your hormones, slow your metabolism, and make fat loss harder even if you’re doing everything “right.”

    You’ll learn how these toxins impact your thyroid, sex hormones, brain function, and where they’re hiding in your everyday environment.


    Show Notes Outline:

    Obesogens — endocrine-disrupting chemicals that promote fat storage and hormonal imbalance.


    PART 1: What Are Obesogens?

    • Definition: Chemicals that disrupt hormonal balance and increase fat storage

    • Mechanism:

      • Activate fat-storing switches in cells

      • Can affect metabolism before birth

    • Impact on Key Hormones:

      • Disrupt insulin → leads to cravings, weight gain, risk of Type 2 diabetes

      • Slow thyroid function → reduces metabolism, energy, and fat-burning

    • Trigger inflammation + mitochondrial damage → chronic fatigue, fat gain, fatty liver risk

      PART 2: How Obesogens Disrupt Sex Hormones

      • Estrogen Mimics: BPA overstimulates estrogen receptors → worsens PMS, irregular cycles

      • Testosterone Suppression: Phthalates reduce levels → affects libido, muscle tone, energy

      • Hormonal Disorders:

        • Links to PCOS, fertility issues, early puberty

        • Developmental exposure = long-term reproductive system changes

      • Perimenopause & Menopause:

        • Amplifies symptoms like hot flashes, fatigue, mood swings

        • Makes weight loss more difficult

  • PART 3: How Obesogens Affect the Brain

    • Target the Hypothalamus:

      • Disrupt hunger and fullness signals → overeating and cravings

    • Early Exposure:

      • Alters brain development in utero → “higher fat set point” for life

    • Brain Inflammation:

      • Impairs decision-making, motivation, impulse control

      • Raises risk for emotional eating, anxiety, depression


    PART 4: Where Obesogens Hide & How to Avoid Them

    Top 10 Sources & Swaps:

    1. Plastic Food Containers → Use glass/stainless steel

    2. Canned Foods → Choose BPA-free or fresh/frozen

    3. Nonstick Cookware → Swap for ceramic/stainless/cast iron

    4. Fragranced Products → Choose fragrance-free or phthalate-free

    5. Personal Care Products → Use clean/EWG-verified options

    6. Household Cleaners → Opt for non-toxic alternatives (vinegar, baking soda)

    7. Drinking Water → Install a high-quality filter

    8. Receipts → Minimize handling thermal paper

    9. Flame-Retardant Furniture → Choose natural materials

  • 10. Pesticide-Heavy Produce → Buy organic “Dirty Dozen”


    CONCLUSION & HOLISTIC PERSPECTIVE

    • Awareness is power: small swaps can yield massive hormonal benefits

    • Hormone balance isn’t about one thing—it's about your full lifestyle

  • Encourage a holistic approach: reduce exposure, support detox, and restore hormonal health


    RESOURCES & LINKS:


    https://www.ewg.org/

    EWG Website to check your local water contamination & researched list of healthier non-toxic everyday products like household cleaners and personal care products.


    www.theenergizedlifestyle.com

    Get more info on The Hormone Revolution membership program and sign up