Could pollutants be contributing to your fatigue?

Summer is often associated with healthy-looking hair. Longer days, more sunshine, outdoor activities, and increased vitamin D production should, in theory, create the ideal conditions for strong, shiny hair. Fatigue is not always just about sleep, stress or lifestyle.

Some everyday environmental pollutants may interact with our hormonal system — potentially affecting pathways involved in energy, metabolism and overall well-being.

Microplastics, phthalates, bisphenols and heavy metals are among the pollutants being investigated.

Plastic exposure is everywhere

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that can enter our environment and food chain.

They have been detected in food, drinking water and even fruits and vegetables. Some exposure may also come from plastic packaging and food-storage materials.

The concern is not simply the plastic itself: plastics can also expose us to chemicals such as phthalates and bisphenols.

When pollutants interfere with hormones

Phthalates and bisphenols are widely used chemicals that can behave as endocrine disruptors.

Research has found associations between exposure to certain phthalates or BPA and changes in hormones including thyroid hormones, IGF-1, estradiol and testosterone.

Because hormones play an important role in energy and metabolism, environmental exposure is an interesting factor to consider when looking at persistent fatigue.

BPA: more than a plastic problem

Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the best-known endocrine-disrupting chemicals.

Research reviewed in the presentation links BPA exposure with effects involving reproductive, metabolic and neurobehavioral functions, with estrogen pathways appearing to play an important role.

Other studies have also reported associations between BPA exposure and altered thyroid or reproductive hormone levels.

Association does not necessarily mean causation — but it gives us good reason to reduce unnecessary exposure.

What about heavy metals?

Environmental exposure isn’t limited to plastics.

Heavy metals such as lead and cadmium can also enter the food chain. The presentation highlights that contamination can vary considerably depending on the type of food and how it is processed.

This is another reason why food quality, sourcing and processing deserve attention when thinking about long-term health.

Reduce exposure where you can

You cannot eliminate environmental pollutants completely — but you can reduce unnecessary exposure.

Choose glass, ceramic or stainless steel for food storage when possible. Limit plastic contact with food, particularly plastic kitchen utensils and heavily plastic-wrapped foods. Consider appropriate water filtration and favour less processed foods.

Persistent fatigue deserves a comprehensive approach. Alongside sleep, nutrition, stress and hormonal health, environmental exposure may be another piece of the puzzle.