Hormonal Disruption

BPA stimulates the aromatase enzyme, which converts testosterone into estrogen. BPA disrupts the endocrine system through multiple mechanisms simultaneously. The simultaneous estrogen-mimicking and androgen-increasing effects of BPA create complex hormonal disruption. Chemical additives in microplastics can mimic hormones or block hormonal action in the body. Alcohol lowers testosterone levels, compounding hormonal imbalance. Alcohol increases estrogen levels, particularly in men. Microplastic-related hormonal imbalance has cascading effects across multiple body systems including the reproductive system and thyroid. Alcohol-induced hormonal shifts promote abdominal fat storage and reduce the ability to build and maintain lean muscle mass. Hormonal disruption from microplastics is associated with reduced fertility, weight gain, and developmental problems in teenagers.