Microplastics are in our… BRAINS?!
You've probably seen headlines about microplastics found in places like human lungs, intestines, and even placentas. Earlier this year, researchers from the University of New Mexico published a study in the journal Nature that found micro and nano plastics in the livers, kidneys, and brains of deceased people. It turns out that the brains had the highest of the 3 organs they tested.
Not only did they find the highest levels in brain tissue, but they also found that the levels of microplastics in all tissues are increasing The study authors compared tissue samples from 2016 and 2024 and found that the number of plastic particles increased by nearly 50% in that short amount of time!
Much of the research into the presence of microplastics in human tissues has really just been about trying to identify if it's there, not what the effects are.
What this means is that we really don't know yet what this means for our health at this time.
There are some pretty strong correlations between microplastics in the body and various health conditions, including cardiovascular issues, immune responses, and possibly dementia, but research is just getting started in this area, and we have a ways to go before we have a solid understanding of what's happening.
The long-term effects of microplastic ingestion on human health are still being investigated, but potential concerns include exposure to chemicals carried by plastics, oxidative stress, and changes in gene expression.
It's not possible to avoid ALL microplastic exposure, given that they ve been found in food, water, and even the air we breathe, but we can work to lower our exposure to plastics overall.
Okay, but what are some realistic ways we can limit microplastic exposure?
I am glad you asked.
Realistic ways we can limit our exposure:
Choose durable, reusable items over single-use plastics (I personally limit things like plastic bags unless I really have a situation I need them
Avoid bottled water and carry your own reusable glass or stainless steel water bottle
Filter your drinking water (specifically look at testing of filters to see how they aid in filtering plastics) - there is also a recent study showing that boiling water can aid in removing them
Don't microwave in plastic, this is HUGE
Using wood, glass or steel cutting boards instead of plastic (this one is also so underrated and huge)
Prioritizing food packaged in glass over plastic
Minimize synthetic clothing: acrylic, polyester, and nylon (this is the main one I am currently working on - lower tox leggings and underwear)
Support initiatives aimed at reducing plastic pollution
Move away from non stick cookware (think teflon) - stainless steel and ceramic are better options
Move away from plastic kitchen utensils and go for wood or stainless steel. Based on current research, even silicone is a better option than typical plastic kitchen utensils
If you're a big seafood eater, consider your source and make sure it's reliable. Studies have shown that smaller organisms like pink shrimp may have higher concentrations of microplastics in their tissues compared to larger fish like salmon - current research suggests to limit shrimp consumption if you eat it daily
I hope this helps you make a more informed decision when it comes to living lower tox without living in fear!
Sources:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/b
oiling-tap-water-could-remove-up-to-90-of-the-microplastics-in-it#:~:text=While%20there%20are%20some%20
water,to%20make%20tea%200r%20coffee
https://www.globalseafood.org/advocate/resear chers-detect-microplastics-in-the-muscle-tissues-of-oregon-seatood/#:~:text=Researchers%20identified%20 1%2C806%20suspected%20microplastic,animal s%20that%20feed%20on%20zooplankton.%E2
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References PMID: 39901044
