If you’re concerned about your health, you probably already think a great deal about how the food you eat impacts your wellbeing. But as it turns out, the non-food items in your kitchen might be some of the most surprising sources of toxins. According to wellness expert and cellular health specialist @drpompa, several everyday products used for cooking, storing, and cleaning may contain “hormone disruptors”—chemicals that interfere with the body’s natural hormone balance and have been linked to serious health risks, including certain types of cancer.
In a recent Instagram Reel, Dr. Pompa identified three of the most concerning culprits. Luckily, replacing them is easier than you might think. From switching up your cookware to rethinking your cleaning supplies, here are the three biggest hormone disruptors in your kitchen that could be affecting your long-term health.
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1. Nonstick Cookware
Nonstick pans may make cleanup a breeze, but Dr. Pompa warns that they could also be releasing "forever chemicals"—synthetic compounds known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These chemicals can leach into your food when heated and have been linked to hormone disruption, reproductive issues, and certain cancers. Instead, opt for stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic cookware, which are safer and just as effective once properly seasoned or cared for.
2. Plastic Food Containers
If you’re still using plastic containers for meal prep or leftovers, it might be time to make a change. Plastic often contains compounds like BPA and phthalates, both of which are known endocrine disruptors. Dr. Pompa warns that these toxins are especially prone to "leaching" into food when containers are heated or used with "hot, fatty foods." "The answer is so simple," he says. Switch to glass containers, which are durable, non-toxic, and won’t contaminate your food or beverages. The same goes for plastic water bottles. He recommends replacing them with reusable glass.
3. Fragranced Soaps and Detergents
That fresh or fruity scent in your dish soap or laundry detergent might actually be harmful. According to Dr. Pompa, synthetic fragrances often contain hormone-disrupting chemicals that can enter your system through your skin or the air. To protect yourself and your family, he says you should look for fragrance-free products. When in doubt, read the label—if "fragrance" or "parfum" appears without further detail, it’s best to steer clear.
You don’t have to overhaul your entire kitchen overnight, but making small swaps in your daily household products can have a big impact on your long-term health.
