estrogen + dioxin = ENDOMETRIOSIS?

Recent study by Chinese researchers at Shanghai Medical College investigated the link between estrogen and dioxin and endometriosis. Endometriosis is a painful pelvic condition in women characterized by the growth of endometrial (uterine) tissue outside of the uterus. Often, endometrial tissue can be found lodged on the ovaries and in the pelvic cavity. Symptoms include pain with sex and progressively painful periods.

Dioxins are absorbed in the fatty tissues of the body and can persist there indefinitely. Dioxins are mainly byproducts of industrial processes and are produced during manufacturing processes including smelting, chlorine bleaching of paper pulp, and the manufacturing of some herbicides and pesticides.

Environmental distribution of dioxins is global. The highest levels of these compounds are found in some soils, sediments, and foods, including dairy products, meat, fish and shellfish. Lower levels are found in plants, water, and air.

These researchers found that exposure to a combination of estrogen and dioxin may not only initiate endometriosis but also progress the disease.

At ALETRIS Center, we recommend reducing the consumption of meat and dairy products, as well as using natural tampons and pads (which contain no dioxin). And, of course, we value the connection between the health of the environment and the health of us as individuals dependent on the environment for life and health.