Silent Dangers of Microplastics and How You Can Protect Yourself
Silent Dangers of Microplastics and How You Can Protect Yourself
The Team at Ultiself
Table of contents
Silent Dangers of Microplastics and How You Can Protect Yourself
Table of contents
You’ve already known this. The world has had a serious problem with plastic waste management in the last couple of decades. The human species is responsible for 350 million metric tons of plastic waste annually, which poisons marine biology and creates toxic landfills throughout the world.
Even worse, this number is expected to increase exponentially in the coming years, multiplying by three times by 2060 if we continue our current trajectory.
However, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. For decades, we as a species have been setting up for a major global health catastrophe
As a society, we have been overly reliant on plastics, from the food we buy at the grocery store to the containers we use, to water bottles, and even synthetic clothes and vanity products.
Recent research has revealed that plastic materials break off, releasing tiny plastic particles that are spread in the air we breathe.
Multiple studies have shown that we, along with thousands of animal species on the planet, have been silently harboring microplastics in our organs. On average, we are exposed to microplastics of about the size of 1 credit card each week.
This begs the question, how exposed are we to microplastics, and what’s its real impact on our health?
In this article, we will dive deeper into the biological effects of microplastics and provide you with practical ways to mitigate your exposure to them.
What are microplastics?
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that measure less than 5 millimeters in size. These minuscule fragments are the result of the breakdown of larger plastic items, such as bottles, bags, and packaging materials. Additionally, microplastics can originate from synthetic clothing fibers, personal care products, and even car tires
One of the most concerning aspects of microplastics is their ability to spread through the air as particles, which can be inhaled by both humans and animals. Once airborne, these particles can be carried by wind currents and travel long distances, potentially contaminating even the most remote areas of our planet.
Ingestion is another common route of microplastic exposure. Humans can unintentionally consume these particles through contaminated food and beverages. For example, marine life often mistakes microplastics for food, leading to the accumulation of these particles in the food chain. As a result, humans who consume seafood may be inadvertently ingesting microplastics. article-74-pic-02.png100.99 KB
These tiny particles can easily enter our bodies through inhalation, ingestion, and even skin contact. Studies have found microplastics in human lungs, blood, and placenta, highlighting the urgent need to address this issue. Once inside the body, microplastics can potentially interact with tissues and cells, which may cause chronic inflammation and cell damage.
Health impacts of microplastic
To date, we have no clear way to eliminate our exposure to microplastics. Everyone on the planet is affected by it. At the same time, researchers are still figuring out the true extent of microplastics in our health.
Potential health hazards of microplastics
1. Leads to inflammation and cell damage
Upon contact with microplastics, our immune system may recognize these foreign particles as a threat and trigger an inflammatory response. Inflammation is a natural defense mechanism that helps our body fight off invaders and heal damaged tissues. However, when inflammation becomes chronic, it can lead to a host of health problems.
Chronic inflammation has been linked to the development of various serious health conditions, such as:
Cancer: Prolonged inflammation can create an environment that promotes the growth and spread of cancer cells. Microplastics may contribute to this process by continuously irritating tissues and triggering ongoing inflammatory responses.
Cardiovascular Diseases: Chronic inflammation can damage the lining of blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems. Microplastics circulating in the bloodstream may exacerbate this damage and contribute to the development of these life-threatening conditions.
Autoimmune Disorders: Chronic inflammation can also disrupt the body's immune system, causing it to mistakenly attack healthy tissues. This can lead to the development of autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis.
2. Disrupts hormones
Many of the chemicals found in plastics, such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), are known endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs). These substances can mimic or interfere with the body's natural hormones, leading to a wide range of adverse health effects.
Hormones are chemical messengers that play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including growth and development, metabolism, and reproductive health. When microplastics containing EDCs enter our system, they can bind to hormone receptors and disrupt the normal functioning of these vital signaling pathways.
Here are some of the possible effects of microplastics on your hormones:
Delayed growth spurt
Disruption in metabolism
Decrease reproductive function
Impaired brain functions
The effects of hormone disruption caused by microplastics can be particularly concerning for vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women and young children. Exposure to EDCs during critical windows of development can have lasting impacts on an individual's health and well-being. 3. Causes infertility
The issue of declining fertility rates has become a growing concern in recent years, particularly in Western countries. According to a comprehensive study published in 2017, the average sperm counts of men in these nations have dropped by more than 50% over the past 40 years. This alarming trend has led researchers to investigate the potential causes behind this decline, and microplastics have emerged as a possible contributing factor. article-74-pic-04.png96.8 KB
While no definitive link has been established between overexposure to microplastics and infertility, recent studies have uncovered some concerning findings. One such study revealed that humans have three times higher concentrations of microplastics in their testicles compared to animals. This discovery suggests that humans may be more susceptible to the harmful effects of microplastics on reproductive health.
Studies have shown that microplastics can decrease sperm counts, which is a critical factor in male fertility. A reduced sperm count makes it more difficult for a man to successfully fertilize a woman's egg, thereby decreasing the chances of conception. Exposure to microplastics has been linked to testicular inflammation. Inflammation of the testicles can cause damage to the delicate tissues responsible for sperm production, leading to a decline in sperm quality and quantity. Chronic inflammation may also contribute to the development of more severe conditions, such as testicular cancer. 4. Causes accumulation of toxic chemicals
Due to their small size and large surface area, microplastics act like tiny sponges, attracting and accumulating various pollutants, such as pesticides and heavy metals.
When microplastics enter our waterways and soil, they come into contact with a wide range of environmental contaminants. These pollutants, which may include harmful chemicals like DDT, PCBs, and lead, can easily adhere to the surface of the microplastics. Over time, the concentration of these toxins on the microplastics can grow significantly, creating a potent cocktail of hazardous substances.
The problem becomes even more alarming when we consider how these contaminated microplastics can enter our bodies. When we consume food or beverages that contain microplastics, or when we inhale airborne microplastic particles, we are also unknowingly ingesting the toxic chemicals that have accumulated on their surface. As these pollutants are released into our bodies, they can trigger a cascade of adverse health effects, depending on the specific chemicals involved.
Exposure to heavy metals found in microplastics has been linked to:
Recent studies have made alarming discoveries, finding microplastics in human placentas, which raises serious questions about the risks these pollutants pose to unborn children.
The placenta is a vital organ that plays a critical role in supporting the growth and development of a fetus during pregnancy. It acts as a lifeline, providing the fetus with oxygen and essential nutrients while also serving as a protective barrier against harmful substances. The presence of microplastics in this crucial organ is deeply troubling, as it suggests that these pollutants can cross the placental barrier and potentially interfere with fetal development.
While the exact impact of microplastics on fetal development is not yet fully understood, evidence from animal models paints a worrying picture. Studies conducted on pregnant animals exposed to microplastics have shown that these pollutants can accumulate in the placenta and even transfer to the developing fetus.
How to limit your microplastic exposure?
1. Don’t use plastic containers
s One of the most effective ways to reduce your exposure to microplastics and the harmful chemicals they contain, such as phthalates, is to opt for non-plastic food containers. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using containers made from materials like stainless steel, glass, or silicone instead of plastic. These alternatives are not only safer for your health but also more durable and environmentally friendly in the long run. 2. Avoid microwaving food in plastic
When it comes to reheating your food, it's best to avoid using plastic containers altogether. The heat from the microwave can cause chemicals from the plastic to leach into your food, increasing your exposure to harmful substances. Instead, transfer your food to a microwave-safe glass, ceramic, or stainless steel container before reheating. Additionally, it's important to keep plastic containers out of the dishwasher, as the high temperatures can break down the plastic and release chemicals. When purchasing plastic products, be sure to check the recycling code on the bottom. Avoid plastics with recycling code 3, as these typically contain phthalates, which are known endocrine disruptors. 3. Choose reusable materials
By bringing reusable bags when shopping for groceries, using a fabric garment bag for dry cleaning, and carrying a refillable travel mug for your daily coffee, you can significantly cut down on your plastic waste.
When shopping for various products, take a moment to consider the packaging. Opt for items that have minimal or no plastic packaging, and instead choose those that come in recyclable materials like paper, glass, or aluminum. Additionally, say no to single-use plastic straws and cutlery, and invest in reusable alternatives made from materials like metal, bamboo, or glass. 4. Opt for natural fabrics
The clothes we wear can also contribute to microplastic pollution, as synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon shed tiny microfibers each time they are washed. These microfibers can make their way into our waterways and even the air we breathe. To minimize this impact, choose natural fabrics like organic cotton, linen, or wool whenever possible. If you do have synthetic clothing, there are still steps you can take to reduce microfiber shedding. Using a front-loading washing machine, washing clothes in cold water, and avoiding the dryer can all help minimize the release of microfibers. You can also invest in a microfiber-catching laundry ball or bag, which helps trap the fibers before they enter
Bottomline
The presence of microplastics in our daily lives poses a significant threat to our health and well-being, and it is crucial that we recognize the severity of this problem.
The scientific evidence linking microplastics to various health concerns, such as inflammation, hormonal disruption, infertility, and the accumulation of toxic chemicals, paints a troubling picture. These tiny particles have infiltrated every aspect of our lives, from the food we eat and the water we drink to the air we breathe and the clothes we wear. As a result, we are continuously exposed to the potential dangers of microplastics, often without even realizing it.
It is important to acknowledge that microplastics are not a "micro" problem – they represent a serious health threat that affects every individual on the planet. The consequences of our plastic dependence are not limited by geographical boundaries or socioeconomic status; they have the potential to impact the health of people from all walks of life.
Lee, Y., Cho, J., Sohn, J., & Kim, C. (2023). Health Effects of Microplastic Exposures: Current Issues and Perspectives in South Korea. Yonsei medical journal, 64(5), 301–308. https://doi.org/10.3349/ymj.2023.0048
Campanale, C., Massarelli, C., Savino, I., Locaputo, V., & Uricchio, V. F. (2020). A detailed review study on potential effects of microplastics and additives of Concern on human health. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health/International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(4), 1212. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17041212
Hu, C. J., Garcia, M. A., Nihart, A., Liu, R., Yin, L., Adolphi, N., Gallego, D. F., Kang, H., Campen, M. J., & Yu, X. (2024). Microplastic presence in dog and human testis and its potential association with sperm count and weights of testis and epididymis. Toxicological sciences : an official journal of the Society of Toxicology, kfae060. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1093/toxsci/kfae060
Garcia, M. A., Liu, R., Nihart, A., Hayek, E. E., Castillo, E., Barrozo, E. R., Suter, M. A., Bleske, B., Scott, J., Forsythe, K., Gonzalez-Estrella, J., Aagaard, K. M., & Campen, M. J. (2024). Quantitation and identification of microplastics accumulation in human placental specimens using pyrolysis gas chromatography mass spectrometry. Toxicological Sciences. https://doi.org/10.1093/toxsci/kfae021
