A number of studies have shown a relationship between environmental toxins and the risk of diabetes. These toxins can occur naturally or through industrial and manufacturing processes.
What are environmental toxins and how do they affect our health?
Environmental toxins are harmful physical, chemical or biological substances found in the environment that can have detrimental effects on our health. These toxins can originate from both natural and man-made sources and are frequently found in air, water, soil, food and household products.
Environmental toxins can increase the risk of endocrine issues (such as diabetes), cancer, cardiovascular disease and respiratory disease.
Examples of environmental toxins include:
- Air pollutants, including carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide and ozone
- Water contaminants, including heavy metals (e.g. mercury, lead and arsenic) and industrial chemicals (e.g. polychlorinated biphenyls [PCBs] and dioxins)
- Soil contaminants, including heavy metals (e.g. lead, cadmium), pesticides and herbicides, and industrial waste (e.g. solvents and chemicals)
- Household chemical compounds, including phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA)
- Toxins from waste disposal and landfills, including gases such as methane and hydrogen sulfide, and waterborne contaminants
Can environmental toxins increase the risk of developing diabetes?
Some environmental toxins, especially those known as “endocrine-disrupting chemicals,” can interfere with the normal functioning of insulin in the body. This interference may lead to insulin resistance and ultimately to type 2 diabetes.
Five environmental toxins that have been linked to an increased risk of diabetes are:
- Persistent organic pollutants. Some industrial chemicals – known as persistent organic pollutants – can remain in the environment for long periods and accumulate in food, soil and water. Common chemicals of this type include PCBs, dioxins and pesticides. They have been linked to insulin resistance and inflammation.
- Heavy metals. Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium are present in the environment through industrial pollution, contaminated water and even certain foods. Exposure to these metals has been shown to increase the risk of insulin resistance and impaired glucose tolerance.
- Bisphenol A (BPA). BPA is a chemical commonly found in plastics and can leach into food and beverages that are stored in plastic containers. Some studies have suggested that BPA exposure may alter the function of pancreatic cells and the way the body regulates blood sugar, leading to insulin resistance and other metabolic disorders.
- Phthalates are a group of chemical compounds commonly used to make plastic products more flexible and durable. They are found in a wide variety of consumer products, including plastic containers, flooring, toys and personal hygiene products (such as shampoos, deodorants and lotions). Prolonged exposure to phthalates may cause altered insulin secretion and insulin resistance.
- Pesticides and herbicides. Many pesticides and herbicides used in agriculture contain toxic chemicals that can enter the human body through the consumption of contaminated food or water. These pesticides and herbicides can cause insulin resistance and fluctuating blood sugar levels. Some herbicides have also been linked to the development of obesity, a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
Are there safe ways to reduce exposure to environmental toxins?
While the link between environmental toxins and diabetes is complex, there are several steps you can take to help reduce your risk of exposure:
- Choosing organic produce. Organic farming practices avoid or reduce the use of pesticides and herbicides, which can lower your exposure to these chemicals.
- Avoiding plastic containers. Reduce the use of plastic containers that may contain BPA. Choose glass or stainless-steel containers for food storage.
- Minimizing your exposure to pollution. Avoid areas or episodes of high air pollution and be mindful of indoor air quality, particularly in homes with poor ventilation or high levels of household chemicals.
- Using natural cleaning products. Many commercial cleaning products contain toxic chemicals that can contribute to environmental pollution. Switching to eco-friendly, non-toxic alternatives can reduce your exposure.
- Eating a balanced diet. A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats can help reduce the effects of environmental toxins and protect against diabetes and other chronic diseases.
While environmental toxins – both naturally occurring and synthetic or man-made – are present in many areas of our lives, there are ways you can reduce or avoid encountering them. This will help decrease your risk of type 2 diabetes.
