Diet: A Source of Endocrine Disruptors

Abstract

Background: Food is indispensable for human life and determines the health and wellbeing of the consumer. As food is the source of energy for humans, it also emerges as one of the most important sources of exposure to deleterious chemicals both natural and synthetic. The food exposed chemicals cause a number of detrimental health effects in humans, with endocrine disruption being of serious concern amongst these effects. Such chemicals disrupting the health of endocrine system are known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). The food exposed EDCs need to be identified and classified to effectuate a cautious consumption of food by all and especially by vulnerable groups.

Aim: The aim of the present review was to discuss food as a source of exposure to common endocrine disruptors in humans. This review presents the occurrence and levels of some of the critical endocrine disruptors exposed through frequently consumed diets.

Methods: The major source of data was PubMed, besides other relevant publications. The focus was laid on data from the last five years, however significant earlier data was also considered.

Conclusion: The food as a source of endocrine disruptors to humans cannot be neglected. It is highly imperative for the consumer to recognize food as a source of EDCs and make informed choices in the consumption of food items.

Keywords: Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs); adverse health effects; diet; exposure; phytoestrogens; xenoestrogens..