According to research, men's testosterone levels have declined by 25 percent since 1992, while their estrogen levels have increased by 40 percent. In addition, men nowadays have 40 percent less sperm count. One of the contributing factors to this can be found in the chemicals in our food. But it's not just our food which can affect men's testosterone levels. Chemicals can also be found in drinking water, the air we breathe, medicine, pesticides and so on. Every day, each of us is exposed to these chemicals. Reducing exposure to these chemicals can improve your health and boost your testosterone levels. Here are 8 chemicals all men should avoid:
1. Bisphenol-A (BPA)
BPA is found in plastic bottles, containers and food cans. This chemical is used to prevent foods and beverages from having a plastic or metallic taste. In particular, canned, acidic foods have high amounts of BPA due to the acid that dissolves into the food. Studies show that BPA has been linked to many health problems including infertility, diabetes, cancer and heart disease.
2. Phthalates
A chemical that can be found in soaps, detergents, plastics, plastic bags, nail polish, water pipes and hairspray. Research shows that exposure to this chemical can lead to a low sperm count, inflammation in newborn babies and other reproductive problems.
3. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)
This chemical is used to prevent things from absorbing water or oil. It is found in non-stick coatings, popcorn bags, fast food wrappers and so on, but it has been found to stay in the body for years. It has also been linked to health conditions like cancer, thyroid disorder, and high cholesterol. Reduce exposure to this chemical by avoiding non-stick pans.
4. Bovine growth hormones
Usually found in animals bred in factory farms, bovine growth hormones are given to the animals to enhance their growth and make them fatter. This chemical can be ingested through the consumption of non-organic meat or dairy.
5. Fluoride
Fluoride is found in the water we drink. It's supposed to improve our dental health but overall, tends to do the body more harm than good. Exposure to fluoride has been linked to joint pain, hormonal imbalances, low sperm count and infertility. Use a water filter to help eliminate fluoride.
6. Parabens
Found in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products, studies show that parabens mimic estrogen, reducing your conjugal desires.
7. Nonylphenol ethoxylates
NPEs is a chemical used by textile manufacturing companies that ends up being discharged to rivers and lakes. NPE has also been found to transform some male water species to female. Some clothes also contain NPE until they are washed.
8. Metalloestrogens
This chemical increases estrogen levels in the body and can be found in metals and most consumer products.
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