Microplastics Are Getting Into Your Body—Here’s How to Reduce Them

You’ve probably heard that microplastics are everywhere.

Unfortunately, “everywhere” isn’t much of an exaggeration.

They’re in our water, food, household dust, clothing—and even the air we breathe. Scientists have also detected tiny plastic particles in human blood and tissues, including the lungs, placenta, reproductive organs, and brain.

So, what exactly are these things—and more importantly, how can we reduce our exposure?

Plastic Doesn't Really Go Away... Ever

Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters—about the size of a sesame seed or smaller. Even tinier particles are called nanoplastics.

Some microplastics are manufactured small. But many begin as ordinary plastic products.

A bottle gets old. A food container becomes scratched. Synthetic clothing sheds fibers. Tires wear down.

The plastic doesn't simply disappear.

It gets smaller. And smaller. And smaller.

Eventually, the particles can become too small for us to see—but they're still here.

They've now been detected from remote mountain peaks, like on Mt. Everest, to the deepest oceans, as well as in drinking water, seafood, salt, fruits, vegetables, and household dust.

But Are Microplastics Actually Hurting Us?

That's the big question scientists are trying to answer.

However, there is reason for concern. Laboratory and animal research suggests that microplastics may contribute to inflammation, cellular damage, changes in immune function, and other biological problems. Researchers are now studying possible connections with cardiovascular, reproductive, respiratory, digestive, and other health conditions.

In other words, there's still a lot we don't know.

But knowing plastic particles are entering our bodies gives us a pretty good reason to reduce unnecessary exposure when we can.

And thankfully, some of the easiest changes can happen right in your kitchen.

7 Simple Ways to Reduce Your Exposure

• Don't microwave food in plastic. Heat can increase the movement of chemicals from some plastics into food and may also contribute to plastic degradation. Transfer your food to glass or ceramic before heating it. Microwave safe only means the container won't melt, not that it is safe for you.

• Don't pour very hot food or drinks into plastic containers. Heat and plastic aren't a combination I want around my food. Choose glass, stainless steel, or ceramic when practical.

• Stop repeatedly refilling disposable plastic water bottles. These bottles weren't designed for long-term use. Scratching, squeezing, heat, and repeated use can degrade the plastic. Carry a reusable stainless-steel or glass bottle instead.

• Don't leave bottled water in a hot car. Heat can increase chemical migration from plastic packaging. Bring your water with you rather than letting plastic bottles bake in the car.

• Replace badly scratched or worn plastic food containers. Wear and tear can increase the shedding of tiny particles. Better yet, gradually replace them with glass or stainless steel.

• Reduce plastic food packaging where practical. Choose foods and beverages packaged in glass, paper, or other alternatives when available.

• Choose more natural fabrics. Polyester, nylon, and other synthetic fabrics can shed tiny plastic fibers. Cotton, linen, and wool can help reduce this source of exposure.

Don't Panic—Make Better Choices

Completely avoiding microplastics probably isn't possible in today's world.

But that's not a reason to throw up our hands.

And it's certainly not a reason to become fearful.

Start with what you can control.

Maybe today you stop microwaving food in plastic. Tomorrow you replace your disposable water bottle with stainless steel. When an old plastic food container wears out, replace it with glass instead of buying another plastic one.

Small choices add up.

We can't eliminate every environmental exposure, but we can stop unnecessarily adding to our body's burden.

You don't have to live in fear of your environment.

Become informed. Make better choices. And give your body the healthiest environment you reasonably can.

God bless,