COSMOS MAGAZINE
Microplastics — tiny plastic particles found in everything from food and water to air and even the human brain — are rapidly becoming a significant public health concern.
These particles, which are smaller than 5mm, are increasingly detected in human tissues, including organs like the brain, lungs, and liver, with some studies linking higher brain levels to conditions like dementia.
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Although the full impact on human health remains unclear, microplastics have been shown to cause inflammation, hormonal disruptions, and other harmful effects in animals.
A great shearwater and 194 plastic fragments found in its stomach. Credit: Yamashita et al. (2021)
To reduce exposure , experts suggest to :
Drink tap water instead of bottled water – Bottled water contains nearly as many microplastic particles as all other sources combined. Switching to tap water can cut your exposure by almost 90%.
Credit: Oliver Helbig
Chinese researchers have also found that simply boiling “hard” tap water could help remove nearly 90% of nano and microplastics.
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Avoid microwaving food in plastic – Heating food in plastic containers releases large amounts of microplastics. Using glass or stainless steel alternatives helps reduce exposure.
Credit: Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ)
Choose fresh foods over processed foods – Industrial processing increases microplastic contamination. For example, chicken nuggets contain 30 times more microplastics per gram than fresh chicken breast.
Credit: Kateryna Kon/Science Photo Library/Getty Images
Wear and wash natural fabrics – Synthetic clothing (like polyester and acrylic) sheds microplastics during wear and washing. Opt for natural fabrics like cotton, wool, or hemp.
Reduce plastic in personal care products – Many cosmetics contain microbeads, which contribute to microplastic pollution. Check labels and choose microplastic-free skincare and hygiene products.