Endocrine Disruptors Make Mice Fat And Lazy

We already know that endocrine disruptors–like BPA in cans and cash register receipts, or phthalates in perfume–are linked to obesity, reproductive problems, and even cancer. But could they also make you fat and lazy?

That’s the finding of a new study from the University of Missouri, where researchers exposed female mice to BPA and and ethinyl estradiol–or EE, the estrogen found in birth control pills–and found that their daughters showed decreased metabolism and less of an inclination to exercise, later in life.

Of course, humans are not mice. But if you consider the skyrocketing rates of obesity, this is big news. Check out these six steps to reduce your family’s exposure to endocrine disruptors.