Parabens are artificial, hormone endocrine-disrupting chemicals that are used in products to prevent the growth of bacteria and lengthen their shelf life. They are found in products such as cosmetics, beverages, baked goods, and packaging. Parabens’ side effects may cause abnormal thyroid hormone levels and disrupt regular thyroid functioning. Abnormal hormone levels caused by exposure to parabens such as methylparaben have been linked to infertility, and reproductive organ dysfunction, and an increase in the risk of cancer. You can learn more about parabens and how they can affect your health in our blog posts.