Exploring The Dark Side Of Farmed Seafood & Mass Produced Meat/Dairy
Written By: Kristi Caruana
In the modern era, our dietary choices have become a complex landscape of potential health implications. From the very beginning of a food's growth to its final consumption, a variety of harmful compounds have been known to infiltrate our food. The interplay between our diet and hormone health is now more evident than ever, as compounds present in modern foods pose direct threats to our body's balance, structural integrity, and most intimate regions like our reproductive health.
Growth Hormones:
The use of growth hormones in livestock farming has raised significant concerns. These synthetic hormones are administered to animals to accelerate growth and enhance production— Animals treated with growth hormones can carry residues of these compounds into the meat, milk, and other animal products we consume. Exposure to synthetic hormones has been associated with disruptions in our own hormonal balance, contributing to concerns about reproductive health, early onset puberty, and increased cancer risks.
Pesticide Residues:
Conventionally grown fruits and vegetables are often sprayed with pesticides to protect against pests. However, these residues can linger on the produce, and when ingested, they have been shown to act as endocrine disruptors. Pesticide residues can even remain on the surface of fruits and vegetables after washing! These compounds interfere with hormones, leading to disruptions in reproductive health, thyroid function, metabolic health, and overall hormone balance. To minimize pesticide exposure, consider choosing organic produce whenever possible. Organic farming practices restrict the use of synthetic pesticides, reducing the risk of residue accumulation.
PCB Chemicals in Farmed Fish/Seafood:
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are industrial chemicals that have been banned due to their toxic nature. These chemicals are absorbed by small aquatic organisms, which are then consumed by larger fish and shellfish. Over time, PCBs build up in muscle tissue, making seafood a direct source of exposure for humans. Similar to microplastics, when consumed PCBs interfere with hormonal signaling, affecting reproductive health, immune function, neurological development, and are strongly associated with a variety of cancers.
Heavy Metals:
Fish and shellfish, although rich in nutrients, can harbor toxic heavy metals like mercury, lead, and cadmium, which regularly contaminate our food chain through pollution. Seafood, especially larger fish, can contain high levels of methyl mercury, a highly toxic form of mercury that accumulates in fish and shellfish. Larger carnivorous fish, such as shark, swordfish, and tuna, have statistically higher levels of mercury due to their position in the food chain. When we eat mercury-contaminated fish it accumulates in the body, interfering with hormone signaling pathways and leading to disruptions in reproductive and neurological health, particularly in developing fetuses and young children. Cadmium and lead are other heavy metals that can contaminate seafood— These metals can enter aquatic environments through industrial runoff and pollution. Cadmium in particular has been associated with osteoporosis and kidney damage, whereas lead targets cognitive development in both adults and children.
Xenoestrogens:
Xenoestrogens are synthetic compounds that mimic the action of estrogen in the body. Compounds of controversy like BPA, PFAS Chemicals (aka Teflon/nonstick), parabens, and phthalates are all examples of xenoestrogens. These compounds are found in anything from plastics, to personal care products, and even food packaging. When treated food packaging comes into contact with food, especially fatty or acidic foods, the chemicals can leach into food and potentially disrupt hormonal signaling. Xenoestrogens can be introduced into aquatic environments through pollution and accumulate further into animal tissue. Livestock that are treated with hormones and fed antibiotics can carry a variety of xenoestrogens in their tissues. When we consume these animal products, we inadvertently also ingest the xenoestrogens present in their systems. Xenoestrogens have been associated with adverse effects on fertility, hormone-related cancers, and other reproductive health issues.
In an era where our dietary decisions profoundly influence our health, understanding the risks associated with hormone disruptors in our food is crucial.
From artificial growth hormones and pesticide residues to heavy metals and PCB chemicals, these substances have been shown to severely and negatively impact hormone balance, neurological health, and overall vitality. In the world of a modern diet, one thing rings true: where our food comes from truly matters, and our choices have a big impact. Whether we're going for hormone-free and organic, supporting farms that take care of the earth, or pushing for cleaner ways to produce, our decisions aren't just about what's on our plate. They affect our health and the environment.