Thyroid: 10 Actions Against Disruptors

When my Levothyrox was no longer enough

Diagnosed as Hashimoto at age 38. The doctor prescribed me Levothyrox and told me: “It’s for life, we will adjust the dosage. »

For 4 years, my dosages continued to increase. From 25 to 50, then 75, then 100 micrograms. With each blood test, my TSH was out of whack again.

I was gaining weight, I was exhausted, I was cold all the time.

My endocrinologist explained to me that this was “normal” with Hashimoto’s. The gland is gradually destroyed.

But a naturopath asked me a different question: “What is your thyroid exposed to on a daily basis? »

I discovered that the endocrine disruptors present in our household products can:

• Block the absorption of thyroid hormones
• Interfere with the production of T3/T4
• Aggravate autoimmune thyroid diseases

In 1 year of cleaning up my house, my Levothyrox dosage went down from 100 to 75. My TSH has stabilized. I’m not « cured », but my thyroid is better.

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The scientific link: PE and thyroid function

How PEs attack your thyroid

The thyroid is a hormonal gland particularly vulnerable to endocrine disruptors. Several mechanisms:

1. Mimicry: Certain PEs resemble thyroid hormones and take their place
2. Blocking: Others block thyroid receptors
3. Disrupted transport: PEs interfere with proteins that transport T3/T4
4. Autoimmunity: Certain EDs stimulate the autoimmune response (Hashimoto, Basedow)

The most dangerous EDs for the thyroid

| Substance | Sources | Mechanism |

| Triclosan | Antibacterial soaps | Blocks iodine uptake |
| PFAS | Teflon, waterproofing | Disturbed T3/T4 |
| Bisphenols | Plastics, canned goods | Mimics thyroid hormones |
| Phthalates | Perfumes, plastics | Free T4 drop |
| Perchlorate | Tap water | Blocks iodine uptake |
| Flame retardants | Textiles, electronics | Structure similar to T4 |

What the studies say

A systematic review in Thyroid (2020) analyzed 112 studies:

• Exposure to ED = increased risk of hypothyroidism (+30-50%)
• Hashimoto and PE: Strong correlation (aggravated inflammation)
• More vulnerable women (more complex hormonal system)

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The 10 actions to protect your thyroid

1. Ban triclosan

The worst enemy of the thyroid. This “antibacterial” blocks the uptake of iodine by the gland.

Where to find it:

• “Antibacterial” soaps
• Certain toothpastes
• Household “disinfectant” products

Action: Check the labels. Avoid any product that says “triclosan,” “microban,” or “antibacterial.”

Alternative: Classic soap (Marseille soap) eliminates 99% of germs by mechanical action. No need for triclosan.

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2. Switch to chemical-free cleaning

The principle: Less exposure to detergents = less exposure to PE.

The miracle solution: High-performance microfibers clean with water alone. No product = no risk.

My choice: The H2O at Home microfibers. Since I have been cleansing without products, my thyroid is more stable. Coincidence? My endocrinologist doesn’t believe it.

How it works: Microscopic fibers mechanically capture dirt and bacteria. More effective than many chemicals, according to tests.

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3. Eliminate Teflon (PFAS) utensils

The Problem: Teflon contains PFAS (“forever pollutants”) which directly disrupt thyroid function.

Alternatives:

• Stainless steel pans
• Enameled cast iron
• Real ceramic (not ceramic coating on aluminum)

Caution: “PFOA-free” coatings often contain other, equally problematic PFAS.

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4. Filter your water

Perchlorate present in tap water in some regions blocks the absorption of iodine by the thyroid.

Solutions:

• Activated carbon filter (carafe or tap)
• Reverse osmosis for severe cases
• Glass bottled water (temporary)

Find out information: Consult the water analyzes of your municipality on the ARS website.

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5. Avoid plastics in the heat

The problem: Bisphenols are released massively when heated.

Actions:

• Never plastic in the microwave
• Glass containers for hot food
• No plastic bottles left in the sun
• Avoid canned foods (BPA coating)

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6. Choose PE-free detergent

Traditional detergents often contain fragrances (phthalates) and disruptive preservatives.

Criteria:

• Fragrance-free (really free – check)
• Ecocert or Nature & Progrès labels
• Short ingredient list

My thyroid protocol: Fragrance-free organic laundry detergent + softening white vinegar + double rinse.

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7. Ventilate to evacuate VOCs

VOCs present in indoor air include substances that disrupt the thyroid.

Protocol:

• 15 min morning and evening minimum
• During and after cleaning
• After purchasing new furniture

Focus Hashimoto: Inflammation is aggravated by respiratory irritants. Good air quality reduces overall inflammation.

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8. Beware of flame retardants

Where are they found:

• Sofas and armchairs
• Mattresses
• Electronic equipment
• Rugs and carpets

Actions:

• Ventilate rooms with electronics
• Vacuum regularly (they accumulate in dust)
• Prioritize natural textiles without treatment

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9. Support your thyroid naturally

In parallel with sanitation:

Food:

• Iodine: seaweed, fish, eggs (in moderation if Hashimoto)
• Selenium: Brazil nuts (2-3/day max)
• Zinc: seafood, meat
• Avoid: excess soy, large quantities of raw cruciferous vegetables

Lifestyle:

• Quality sleep (in a healthy bedroom)
• Stress management
• Moderate physical activity

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10. Monitor and document

Keep a journal:

• Thyroid symptoms (fatigue, weight, temperature)
• Environmental exhibitions
• Blood results (TSH, T3, T4)

Share with your doctor: More and more endocrinologists recognize the environmental impact on the thyroid.

| Product | Thyroid risk | Alternative | Efficiency |

| Antibacterial soap | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Marseille soap | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Household spray | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | H2O Microfiber + water | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Teflon pan | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Stainless steel / cast iron | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Scented laundry detergent | ⭐⭐⭐ | Fragrance-free organic laundry detergent | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Food plastics | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Glass / stainless steel | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |

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FAQ: Thyroid and environment

Can PEs cause thyroid disease?

They can contribute. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, for example, has a genetic component BUT environmental factors (including ED) play a major role in its onset and progression.

Can I stop my treatment if I sanitize my house?

NO. Never change your thyroid treatment without medical advice. Sanitation can improve your situation and allow dosages to be reduced, but always under medical supervision.

How long does it take to see improvement?

Variable. Some see improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks. The impact on blood tests may take 3-6 months. The thyroid takes time to “detoxify.”

Is Levothyrox affected by EDs?

Potentially. Some EDs interfere with the absorption of Levothyrox. Taking the medication on an empty stomach, away from meals, is even more important if you are exposed to EDs.

Are my children at risk?

Yes, particularly. Children are more vulnerable to PE because their hormonal systems are developing. Sanitation of the house also protects them.

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Your thyroid deserves a clean home

The thyroid is a discreet but vital gland. It regulates metabolism, energy, temperature, mood…

What my Hashimoto journey taught me:

• EPs are documented thyroid abusers
• Reducing exposure can stabilize the disease
• Product-free cleaning is the foundation of a thyroid-healthy home