Three words: Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS). Struggling with unexplained weight gain during perimenopause? It might be time to take a closer look at what’s in your laundry room. Specifically, those innocent-looking bottles of laundry detergent could be sneaking harmful chemicals into your home, impacting hormone balance and contributing to weight gain.
This isn’t just about changing your detergent, though. It’s about reducing your overall toxic load and supporting your body’s natural systems during a time of hormonal shifts.
The Hidden Culprit in Your Laundry Detergent: Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Chances are, Sodium Laureth Sulfate is in your laundry detergent right now. Go grab the bottle (you might need your reading glasses too!) and look for it on the label. If it’s there, it’s time to learn why eliminating this ingredient could make a big difference in your overall health and well-being, especially as you approach menopause.
What is SLS (Sodium Laureth Sulfate)?
SLS is a cheap, widely used surfactant, meaning it’s responsible for creating many of the suds and foaming action in detergents, shampoos, and soaps. While it sounds benign enough, research has shown that SLS can have a far-reaching impact on the body.
The Endocrine System and Hormonal Imbalance
Your endocrine system regulates hormones throughout your body. But studies have found that Sodium Laureth Sulfate can disrupt this delicate system, as it mimics estrogen in your body, leading to an imbalance in hormone levels. For women in perimenopause, this effect can be particularly harmful, potentially exacerbating estrogen dominance. The result? A frustrating struggle with weight gain, mood swings, and other symptoms tied to hormone imbalance.
The Bigger Problem Behind Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Here’s where it gets even more concerning. While SLS on its own hasn’t been directly linked to cancer, that doesn’t mean it’s safe. When combined with 1,4-dioxane, a by-product that’s often found in detergents, it becomes even more harmful.
- Toxic Load – Your liver, the organ responsible for detoxifying your body, struggles to metabolize 1,4-dioxane effectively. This leads to longer retention of toxins in your body, increasing the overall toxic burden on your system.
- Absorption Risks – SLS is a penetration enhancer, meaning it can make its way into your bloodstream via your skin. Research from the University of Georgia Medicine found that SLS can permeate vital organs including the liver, brain, and heart.
- Environmental Impact – It doesn’t stop at harming your health. SLS is also used as a pesticide and herbicide in organic farming and is a known water pollutant. Once it’s washed down the drain along with your laundry, it contributes to environmental damage, harming marine ecosystems.
Calling Out the Usual Suspects
You’ve likely heard of arguably one of the most popular laundry detergent brands (rhymes with ride). Its iconic scent may transport you back to your childhood, but those strong memories come with a hidden cost. Here’s why mainstream detergents are problematic:
- SLS and Fragrance – “Fragrance” is an umbrella term for a cocktail of potentially thousands of synthetic chemicals, none of which need to be disclosed on labels.
- Undisclosed Ingredients – Common household detergents have been found to contain 1,4-dioxane, a probable human carcinogen according to the EPA. Testing has shown that exposure can damage the liver and kidneys and has even caused tumors in animals. Shockingly, 1,4-dioxane isn’t listed in ingredient labels on most because it’s classified as a by-product. This legal loophole leaves consumers in the dark, unaware of the risks.
Back in 2012, independent testing revealed the presence of 1,4-dioxane in popular household products. Despite public outcry, harmful ingredients like these remain present in many conventional brands today.
What Can You Do?
Empowering yourself starts with reducing your exposure to hazardous chemicals. Start small by swapping out your current detergent for safer, more natural options.
Safer Laundry Solutions
Here are a few alternative options to try:
- DIY Detergent – I’ve been using my Enagic K8, a water ionizer, to make my own detergent with strong alkaline water and essential oils. It’s simple, effective, and chemical-free!
- Cleaner Brands
- Branch Basics – a plant- and mineral-based solution that’s tough on stains but gentle on your body and the planet.
- BioKleen – A no-nonsense detergent free of phosphates, chlorine, and other nasties.
- Molly’s Suds – Safe for sensitive skin and formulated with just a handful of non-toxic ingredients.
Why Small Changes Matter
Switching your laundry detergent may seem like a minor adjustment, but it’s a significant step toward lowering your overall toxic load. Every small improvement adds up, especially during perimenopause when your body is working harder than ever to maintain balance.
Protect Your Wellness, One Load at a Time
The habits we don’t think twice about often have the greatest impact on our day-to-day lives. By being mindful of what’s in your laundry detergent, you’re taking control over a critical aspect of your health and setting yourself up for a smoother transition into menopause. Start small, dream big. And if switching to a new laundry detergent could make a difference in how you feel and function, why not give it a try?
Yours in health and harmony,
Dr. LeB
Explore more of my blog posts and reach out if you have any questions.
The information provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Dr. Francesca LeBlanc. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician. Do not use the information provided in this post for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. Please, do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read on this website.
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