Scientists are increasingly finding tiny plastic particles, called microplastics, inside our bodies. These particles have been found in our blood, lungs, and even our brains. Some research suggests that microplastics might affect our gut microbes, which play a key role in our health, including digestion and mental well-being. Although more research is needed, experts advise reducing our exposure to plastic where possible.
Microplastics come from many everyday items like food packaging, clothing, paints, and car tyres. Very small particles can enter our bloodstream and organs. What happens to them there is still largely unknown.
Dr. Jaime Ross, a neuroscientist, explains that it’s hard to design experiments because we are constantly exposed to these particles. However, studies show we are accumulating more plastic now than in the past. Dr. Ross’s research on mice found that those exposed to microplastics showed different behaviour and had a key protein linked to brain health depleted. This pattern was similar to what is seen in depression and dementia.
Human studies have also raised concerns. Microplastics were found in the brains of patients with dementia and in the hardened arteries of people with heart disease. Those with plastic-laden arteries were more likely to have serious health issues like strokes or heart attacks.
A new test, Plastictox, offers an estimate of microplastics in our blood. While it can show how much plastic we have, experts caution that we don’t yet know what a “safe” level is. Professor Stephanie Wright, a microplastics researcher, states that consumer tests are “very premature” because we don’t know if the results are good or bad, or what the particles are doing.
Comparing results between studies is difficult because different methods are used. Also, not all microplastics may be equally harmful. Their type, shape, and size can influence their effects. Smaller particles are more likely to enter organs and cells.
While direct links between microplastics and human diseases are still being studied, many researchers are personally reducing their plastic use. Studies suggest that microplastic levels in our bodies might be rising, but interestingly, older people do not seem to have more than younger people. This offers hope that we might be able to remove them from our bodies.
Here are some practical ways to reduce your exposure to microplastics:
* **In the Kitchen:** Avoid heating food or drinks in plastic containers. Use glass or stainless-steel alternatives. Avoid cooking with plastic utensils and consider switching from teabags to loose-leaf tea, as some teabags can release microplastics. Use wooden chopping boards instead of plastic ones.
* **Bedding and Personal Care:** Choose natural fibres for bedding, like cotton or linen, as synthetic materials can shed microplastics. Check the labels on cosmetics and personal care products, as some may contain microplastics. Opt for 100% cotton or silicone menstrual products.
* **Air Quality:** In indoor environments, synthetic furnishings can release microplastics. Outdoors, tyre wear is a source. Minimise exposure by avoiding busy roads when possible and keeping car windows closed.
* **Reduce Waste:** Repurpose plastic items instead of recycling them if they might not be recycled, as this contributes to wider plastic pollution.
While it’s impossible to avoid microplastics completely, making conscious choices in our daily lives can help reduce our exposure.