When it comes to our bone health, we often think about factors like diet, exercise, and genetics. However, there’s another element we need to consider, one that may not be as visible but can have a significant impact on our well-being: endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Among these, micronized plastics, Bisphenol A (BPA), and microwaved plastic food containers are emerging as potential threats, with the ability to affect our thyroid hormones and, consequently, our bone density.
Microplastics have been around for more than 50 years now, and we have been eating them for years without knowing it. Researchers are now referring to this as “The Plasticine” era for obvious reasons – microplastics are now globally prevalent and can be found in Antarctic Sea ice, the gut of most marine animals, the beaches of uninhabited islands and even in drinking water across the globe.
Understanding the Thyroid-Bone Connection
To comprehend the link between EDCs and bone health, we must first grasp the role of the thyroid gland. This small, butterfly-shaped organ in our neck produces hormones crucial for regulating various bodily functions, including metabolism and bone density. Thyroid hormones play a pivotal role in maintaining the balance between bone formation and resorption. When this balance is disrupted, it can lead to decreased bone density and an increased risk of fractures.
Micronized Plastics: Tiny Particles, Big Impact
In addition, micronized plastics, often found in personal care products and now found throughout our environment, pose a unique threat. These minuscule particles can infiltrate our bodies, potentially disrupting the endocrine system and thyroid function. While more research is needed to establish a direct link between micronized plastics and thyroid hormones, early studies suggest a concerning association.
BPA Plastic: A Familiar Culprit
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a well-known EDC found in plastic containers and even in the lining of some canned foods. BPA has been shown to mimic estrogen in the body, leading to hormonal imbalances. When estrogen levels rise, it can interfere with thyroid hormone regulation and negatively impact bone density.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6864600/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10179611/
Microwaved Plastic Food Containers: A Risk to Consider
Scientists at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln found that microwaving plastic containers and reusable food pouches released billions of microplastics and nanoplastics – tiny plastic particles – into the food those containers held.
https://engineering.unl.edu/news/230721/cee/hussain_microwave_plastics/
Plastic containers marked “microwave safe” simply mean they will not explode or melt in the microwave when heated. However, this is misleading because it does not always mean that the food heated in them is actually “safe” to eat!
When we use plastic containers in the microwave, there’s a risk of chemicals and micro plastics leaching into our food. High temperatures can cause the release of EDCs, including BPA, into our meals. Over time, this exposure may contribute to thyroid dysfunction and bone health issues.
Protecting Your Health
While research on the specific links between EDCs, thyroid hormones, and bone density is ongoing, it’s crucial to take steps to reduce potential risks:
Limit Plastic Use – use glass or stainless steel containers for food storage and reheating.
Choose BPA-Free Products – If you must use plastic containers to store food look for products labelled as BPA-free to reduce exposure.
Promoting Thyroid Function
Promoting thyroid function is important for overall well-being, as the thyroid gland plays a vital role in bone health, but also regulating metabolism, energy levels, and many other bodily functions. Here are some suggested strategies to help promote healthy thyroid function:
Nutrient-Rich Diet
- Consume iodine-rich foods like seaweed, fish, dairy, and iodized salt. Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production.
- Ensure adequate intake of Selenium from sources like Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, and meats, as selenium is important for thyroid hormone metabolism. People who don’t get enough selenium may develop thyroid problems such as thyroiditis, hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid – Graves’ Disease)
- Include Zinc-rich foods like nuts, seeds, and whole grains, as zinc is necessary for thyroid function.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients like protein, calcium and vitamins D, K2 and E which can support thyroid health and bone density.
- Tyrosine is an amino acid in animal meat and some fruits and vegetables (chicken, turkey, fish, avocados, bananas, sesame, and pumpkin seeds) that is required by the thyroid gland combines with iodine to make thyroid hormone. People with an overactive thyroid, like hyperthyroidism or Graves’ disease, should avoid tyrosine supplements because it might affect already high thyroid hormone levels.
- Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation which helps with thyroid disorders arising due to inflammation. A deficiency in Omega-3 and Omega-6 is associated with goitre (nodule) formation in the thyroid. Sources include oily fish, flaxseed oil, nuts, and seeds.
Maintain Gut Health
- Maintaining the health of your microbiome (gut) is critical to ensure you are absorbing nutrients essential for thyroid function and overall health. Consider taking prebiotics and probiotics to support gut health when required, particularly after taking antibiotics.
Balanced Macronutrients
- Maintain a balanced diet with appropriate levels of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to support overall metabolic health.
Limit Goitrogenic Foods
- If you have thyroid issues reduce the consumption of goitrogenic foods like broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, and soy products. These foods can interfere with thyroid function when consumed excessively.
Adequate Hydration
- Stay well-hydrated to support the transport of thyroid hormones throughout the body.
Manage Stress
- Chronic stress can negatively impact thyroid function. Engage in stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or hobbies to manage stress levels. At OsteoStrong Centres, PEMF, Normatec, Red Light, and Hydromassage sessions help reduce oxidative stress, improving thyroid health.
Regular Exercise
- Engage in regular physical activity to support overall metabolic health and maintain a healthy weight. OsteoStrong sessions promote metabolic health, reduce joint, back and muscle pain, enabling a more active lifestyle and promoting thyroid function.
Limit Alcohol
- Excessive alcohol consumption can disrupt thyroid function, so moderate your intake.
Coffee Consumption
- Moderate coffee consumption has been demonstrated in studies to reduce the risk of metabolic disorders in addition to showing some mental health benefits. These studies also found that caffeine consumption may improve thyroid function for people with metabolic disorders.
Adequate Sleep
- Prioritize sleep and aim for 7-9 hours of quality rest each night to support hormonal balance.
Avoid Smoking
- Smoking can adversely affect thyroid health, so quitting or avoiding smoking is beneficial.
Thyroid Supplements
- If you have a diagnosed thyroid condition, take any prescribed medications or thyroid hormone supplements as directed by your healthcare provider.
Environmental Toxins
- Be aware of environmental toxins and try to limit exposure to pollutants, especially those that may disrupt thyroid function, such as BPA’s and microplastics.
Consult a Healthcare Professional
Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor thyroid hormone levels and discuss any concerns or symptoms. If you suspect thyroid issues or experience symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or mood changes, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and treatment.
Individual thyroid health varies, so consult with a healthcare provider or endocrinologist for personalized guidance.
If you’re attending Osteostrong without experiencing bone density improvements, a thyroid issue may be a factor. Consulting a health professional can help identify and address this issue. Regular sessions at Osteostrong strengthens muscles, improves balance, and reduces fall and fracture risks, even if bone density doesn’t increase.
Consulting a health professional can help you address potential thyroid and other health issues early, ensuring a smoother bone health journey at OsteoStrong.
SUMMARY
The potential impact of micronized plastics, BPA, and microwaved plastic food containers on thyroid health and bone density is a growing concern. While more research is needed, taking proactive steps to minimize exposure to these EDCs can help protect your overall health and well-being. By being mindful of the products you use and their potential impact, and being proactive about protecting your thyroid, you can take positive steps toward maintaining a healthy thyroid and strong bones …. and help protect our precious environment!
