Microplastics, tiny plastic particles less than five millimeters in size, are becoming a growing concern for human health. Despite ongoing research, much remains unknown about their effects, largely due to variations in their type, size, shape, and concentration. Additionally, there is no international consensus on the precise definition of microplastics, complicating the study of their impacts.
One alarming discovery is that microplastics are ubiquitous in our environment, easily entering our bodies through ingestion and inhalation. A study by Prata revealed that microplastics are present in the atmosphere, suggesting that we could inhale them. Chronic exposure to these particles might contribute to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, depending on individual susceptibility and the characteristics of the particles.
When ingested, microplastics can cause significant harm to our digestive systems. They can physically irritate the gastrointestinal tract, potentially leading to inflammation and various symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating. Furthermore, microplastics may disrupt the balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria in our intestines, exacerbating these gastrointestinal issues.
Research has also shown that nano-sized plastics can damage mitochondria in human respiratory cells. These microplastics can carry other toxins, such as polystyrene, which is harmful to lung cells and can increase the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Moreover, microplastics can interfere with hormone regulation, potentially causing endocrine disruptions that lead to metabolic, developmental, and reproductive disorders.
Currently, doctors do not have standardized methods to screen for microplastics in patients. However, many microplastics can be expelled from the body relatively quickly through the digestive tract or mucosa. Therefore, the best way to address this issue for now is to reduce exposure.
Given these potential risks, it’s important to take steps to minimize our exposure to microplastics:
- Reduce Plastic Use: Opt for glass, stainless steel, or other alternatives to plastic containers and packaging.
- Filter Drinking Water: Use a water filter that can remove microplastics from tap water.
- Avoid Synthetic Clothing: Choose natural fibers like cotton or wool instead of synthetic materials that shed microplastics during washing.
- Proper Waste Management: Recycle and dispose of plastic waste responsibly to reduce environmental contamination.
- Don’t Microwave Food in Plastic: Heating plastic can release microplastics and harmful chemicals into your food. Use glass or ceramic containers instead.
- Reduce Shellfish Consumption: Shellfish often contain higher levels of microplastics, so cutting back can reduce your intake.
By making these small changes, we can help protect our health from the unseen threat of microplastics.