CHARLOTTE, NC — An alarming new study reveals chemicals which can be found in  everyday products can have damaging effects on our health. They’re called endocrine disruptors and they can be found in products that seem harmless.  “Our cosmetics are a big source of endocrine disruptors as well as the products we use. Even household products.” Dr. Sarita Mahtani said.  Dr.Sarita Mahtani is a functional medicine doctor meaning she breaks down the root causes of diseases.  She said endocrine disruptors can lead to autoimmune diseases and even cancer.  “I am seeing such an increase in autoimmune conditions. I see a lot of young people with hormone sensitive cancers.” Mahtani said.  She said those chemicals can also cause young girls to start puberty earlier and that increased estrogen can lead to breast cancer later in life.  Mahtani said  there are things you can do now to protect yourself.  “It is preventable. We don’t have to wait till you get diagnosed with something to take these actions. Part of that is having a healthy diet, but more importantly eating foods that are anti-inflammatory like green leafy vegetables or drinking green tea.  “So it’s not just a good diet, but we can see the importance of knowing what specifically can help.”   Mahtani said these tips can help women live healthier lives.  “So knowing about your environment, but knowing that there’s things that you can do just empowers women to take control of their health and live their best life possible.”