ABSTRACT
Women pass on low levels of hazardous environmental contaminants and naturally occurring
substances during pregnancy and nursing. In addition to estrogenic activity, these
substances exhibit antiestrogenic, antiandrogenic, and androgenic actions, and because
they can affect thyroid metabolism, they are described as endocrine-active substances
(EAS). Specific topics related to EAS metabolism by mothers, fetuses, and infants
are discussed. There is strong evidence that the assumed risk of EAS in early human
development is exacerbated by interrupting neonatal priming provided by breastfeeding.
The benefits of breastfeeding are fundamental to attenuate possible EAS effects on
infants due to long-term intrauterine exposure. Breastfeeding is a guarantor of health
benefits, whereas its alternative (infant formula) is a predictor of some health limitations.
Mothers concerned with exposure to environmental contaminants should be advised of
the proven benefits of breastfeeding and the possible health limitations of formula
feeding.
KEYWORDS
Xenoestrogens - breast milk - endocrine disruptors - fetus
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Jose G Dorea
C.P. 04322, Universidade de Brasilia
70919-970 Brasília, DF, Brazil
