It's highly likely that you have microplastics in your body.
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size. They are found everywhere, from the air we breathe to the food we eat.
How Microplastics Enter Our Bodies
- Inhalation: We breathe in microplastics that are present in the air, especially in urban areas and near industrial sites.
- Ingestion: Microplastics are found in food and water, and they can also be ingested through contaminated soil.
- Skin absorption: Microplastics can be absorbed through the skin, especially from personal care products that contain plastic microbeads.
Research on Microplastics in Human Bodies
Studies have found microplastics in human blood, lungs, placentas, and breast milk. These findings suggest that microplastics can travel throughout the body and potentially impact human health.
Potential Health Risks of Microplastics
While research is ongoing, there are concerns about the potential health risks associated with microplastic exposure. These risks may include:
- Inflammation: Microplastics can trigger inflammation in the body.
- Hormonal disruption: Some microplastics can mimic hormones and disrupt the endocrine system.
- Cellular damage: Microplastics may damage cells and tissues.
Reducing Microplastic Exposure
While we can't completely avoid microplastics, there are ways to reduce our exposure:
- Choose reusable products: Opt for reusable water bottles, bags, and containers instead of single-use plastic items.
- Buy loose produce: Avoid pre-packaged fruits and vegetables, which may contain microplastics from packaging.
- Filter your water: Use a water filter that removes microplastics.
It's important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the long-term health effects of microplastics on humans.
