Obesity is a major health issue that affects millions of pets worldwide. It is associated with a range of health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, joint problems, and even cancer. While genetics and diet play a role in the development of obesity, there is growing evidence to suggest that endocrine disruptors (EDCs) may also be contributing to the problem. In this blog, we will explore how EDCs are causing a massive obesity epidemic in our pets, particularly in feral rodents living in sewers, and how pet food filled with endocrine disruptors, accessing our garbage food waste are contributing factors.
What are Endocrine Disruptors?
Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that can interfere with the body's endocrine system, which controls hormone production and regulation. They are found in a wide range of products, such as plastics, pesticides, and personal care products. EDCs can mimic hormones, block hormone receptors, or interfere with hormone production, which can disrupt the body's normal functioning.
EDCs and Obesity:
Studies have shown that exposure to EDCs can disrupt the body's metabolism and lead to weight gain. In fact, some researchers believe that EDCs may be contributing to the obesity epidemic in humans and animals. EDCs can affect the endocrine system in several ways, such as:
- Altering the production and release of hormones such as insulin, thyroid hormones, and sex hormones.
- Interfering with the function of hormone receptors in cells, which can affect metabolism and energy balance.
- Disrupting the signaling pathways that regulate appetite and satiety.
@taborplace Replying to @appleuser747457 our cats and dogs are having a massive obesity epidemic.. because endocrine disruptors are having the same impacts on our pets, as they are with us too #endocrinedisruptors #endocrinedisruptingchemicals #toxicchemicals #plasticisbad #cannedfood #bpas #bisphenols #cannedcatfood #canneddogfood #catcancer #dogcancer #felinehyperthyroidism #pethealth #pfas #phthalates ♬ original sound - Beatrice, CEO of Tabor Place
Feral Rodents and EDCs:
Feral rodents are commonly found in sewers and other urban areas, where they have easy access to human food waste. Studies have shown that feral rodents living in urban areas have higher rates of obesity compared to their rural counterparts. One of the reasons for this is believed to be exposure to EDCs. A study conducted in New York City found that feral rats living in urban areas had higher levels of EDCs in their bodies compared to rats living in rural areas. These EDCs are believed to be coming from human waste, which contains a variety of chemicals that can disrupt the endocrine system.
Pet Food and EDCs:
Pet food is another potential source of EDC exposure for pets. Many commercial pet foods contain ingredients that are known to contain EDCs, such as soy products, corn, and wheat. These ingredients are often used as cheap fillers, and they may be contaminated with pesticides and other chemicals. In addition, the packaging used for pet food can also contain EDCs, such as bisphenol A (BPA), which is commonly used in plastic containers.
Garbage Food Waste:
Garbage food waste is another potential source of EDC exposure for pets. When food waste is thrown away, it can attract feral rodents and other animals that may be exposed to EDCs. These animals can then pass on the EDCs to pets that come into contact with them. In addition, garbage food waste can also contaminate the environment, which can lead to further EDC exposure for pets.
Prevention and Solutions:
There are several steps that pet owners can take to reduce their pets' exposure to EDCs. One of the most effective ways is to feed them a healthy, balanced diet that is free from EDCs. This may involve choosing pet foods that are made from natural, organic ingredients and avoiding foods that contain soy, corn, and wheat. It is also important to properly dispose of garbage food waste and avoid using plastic containers that contain BPA.