Microplastics are precisely what their name implies. They’re tiny (micro) particles of plastic less than 5mm (0.2 inches) in diameter. Microplastics are under increased scrutiny, and rightly so. These small pieces of plastic can harm the health of humans, wildlife, and entire ecosystems.
Microplastics are impossible to avoid in the environment
The most concerning issue with microplastics is that they do not break down into harmless molecules, taking an unknown amount of time to decompose. While they decompose over hundreds or even thousands of years, the microplastics released enter the environment. We consume microplastics through ingestion, inhalation and even absorbing them through our skin when using microbeads in cosmetics.
Microplastics have been found in everything studied so far. Microorganisms, animals, humans, fetuses, commercial meat, seafood, agricultural products, drinking water. We are not able to remove these microplastics from water before they make their way into humans and other animals. Scientists are still not sure as to how much danger these particles pose to human health but research so far is concerning.
Worldwide most of the plastic garbage that we generate unfortunately does not get recycled. Using “single use plastics” like water bottles, soda bottles, packaging without recycling them is your biggest houseshold source of microplastic generation. Here in WA state we can recycle many types of plastic, what is accepted depends upon where you live. WA state has helpful information on how to prepare your garbage for recycling here.
Using plastics releases microplastics- tiny particles of plastic that enter the environment. This happens even when items are used as intended. Primary ways that microplastics are released into the environment include:
- Weathering
- Wear and Tear
- Breakdown of products during use
- Washing synthetic fiber clothing
- Tire wear
- Industrial processes like manufacturing, processing of plastics
- Intentional production: microbeads in cosmetics, glitter
Some of these are avoidable- you can avoid buying glitter, leaving plastic garbage outdoors where it can weather, avoid buying cosmetics with microbeads, wear natural fibers and choose a refillable water bottle rather than single use.
Health effects from microplastics
This is a topic of current research but what we know so far is definitely worthy of taking steps to reduce single use plastic use because multiple body systems are affected.
- Immune: Microplastics can trigger immune responses, leading to inflammation and potentially affecting the body’s ability to fight off infections. We do not know if autoimmune disease can be associated with microplastics.
- Cardiovascular: Recent studies have shown a correlation between the presence of microplastics in the body and an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death, particularly in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.
- Respiratory: Inhalation of microplastics can cause inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs, potentially leading to respiratory issues.
- Endocrine/hormones: Microplastics can mimic or interfere with hormones, potentially disrupting the endocrine system and affecting reproductive health, metabolism, and development.
- Digestion: Microplastics have been found in the gut and may contribute to inflammation and potentially exacerbate conditions like Crohn’s and colitis.
- Nervous sytem: Studies in animals suggest that microplastics can affect brain function and behavior, potentially causing neuroinflammation and impacting learning and memory.
For now, the best courses of action is to choose what you purchase wisely– any item you can purchase with less or no plastic packaging will reduce microplastic exposure. Carry a refillable bottle for water and drinks whenever possible. Consider reusable containers over single use sandwich bags. Use glass when possible. Silicone sheds microplastics more slowly than other plastics so it is a less harmful alternative to single use plastic bags and plastic containers. Ask your local restaurant to use cardboard containers for takeout. Carry your own fork and spoon for take out and workplace meals. Consider a reusable glass or metal straw as an alternative to plastic straws. These choices reduce your direct exposure to microplastics and reduce everyone’s exposure to microplastics in the future.
If you’d like to deep dive into this topic- consider this helpful video from Huberman Lab.
Our doctors are happy to help you with concrete steps to improve your health. Contact us to schedule your first appointment.