Microplastics are small plastic particles that are less than 5 millimeters in size. These particles can be found in various forms, including in microbeads, textile fibers, and fragments of larger plastic items that have broken down over time. Microplastics can enter the environment through a variety of sources, including industrial processes, consumer products, and waste disposal. They can be found in a range of environments, including oceans, rivers, and lakes, as well as in soil and air.
Microplastics are a growing concern due to their potential impact on human health and the environment. They can be ingested by animals and can accumulate in their tissues, potentially leading to health problems. In humans, microplastics have been found in various foods and beverages, including seafood, tap water, and bottled water, although the health effects of consuming microplastics are not yet fully understood. Microplastics can also have negative impacts on the environment, including disrupting ecosystems and harming marine life.
What Are Potential Problems of Consuming Microplastics?
➢ Gastrointestinal Problems: Microplastics can accumulate in the digestive tract, leading to inflammation and damage to the tissues. This can cause gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.
➢ Toxicity: Some microplastics can contain toxic substances that can be released into the body when consumed. This can cause damage to organs and tissues and increase the risk of chronic diseases.
➢ Hormonal Disruption: Some microplastics, such as bisphenol A (BPA), can mimic hormones in the body and disrupt the endocrine system. This can lead to reproductive problems, developmental issues, and other health problems.
➢ Immune System Suppression: Microplastics can trigger an immune response in the body, leading to inflammation and suppression of the immune system. This can increase the risk of infection and other health problems.
➢ Cancer Risk: Some studies have suggested that microplastics can increase the risk of cancer, possibly due to their ability to damage DNA and cause oxidative stress.
What Are Long Term Complications From Microplastic Ingestion?
▪ Health Risks: Microplastics can build up in the tissues of animals and humans, leading to health problems. There is evidence that microplastics can cause inflammation, oxidative stress, and damage to DNA, which could increase the risk of cancer, autoimmune diseases, and other chronic health problems.
▪ Environmental Damage: Microplastics can persist in the environment for hundreds of years and can harm ecosystems and wildlife. For example, they can be ingested by fish and other marine animals, potentially causing harm to the animals and those who consume them.
▪ Food Chain Contamination: Microplastics can enter the food chain and potentially accumulate in human tissues. They have been found in various foods and beverages including seafood, tap water, and bottled water.
▪ Chemical Exposure: Microplastics can release chemicals that are used in their manufacture, including additives and flame retardants, which can be toxic and potentially harmful to human health and the environment.
▪ Antibiotic Resistance: Some studies have suggested that microplastics may play a role in the development of antibiotic resistance, which is a growing public health concern.
Some Common Materials That Contain Microplastics:
✓ Cosmetics - Microbeads in exfoliating scrubs, toothpaste, and other personal care products.
✓ Synthetic Clothing - Synthetic fibers shed during washing, which can release microplastics into wastewater.
✓ Plastic Bottles - Plastic bottles and caps can break down into smaller particles over time.
✓ Tires - Tire wear particles can contain microplastics that are released into the environment during driving.
✓ Fishing Gear - Discarded fishing gear can break down into microplastics that can harm marine life.
✓ Packaging Materials - Plastic packaging materials, such as food packaging and plastic bags, can break down into microplastics.
✓ Paints - Paints can contain microplastics that can be released into the environment during application and removal.
✓ Cleaning Products - Cleaning products can contain microplastics that can be released into wastewater.
✓ Synthetic Turf - Synthetic turf can contain microplastics.
✓ Disposable Diapers - Disposable diapers can contain microplastics.
✓ Cigarette Filters - Cigarette filters can contain microplastics that can be released into the environment.
✓ Chewing Gum - Chewing gum is one of the most common sources of microplastics in the environment. Most chewing gums contain a type of synthetic rubber called polyisobutylene, which is a type of plastic that does not biodegrade. Here are some popular chewing gum brands that have been found to contain high levels of microplastics:
1. Orbit: Orbit gum has been found to contain high levels of microplastics, with some samples containing up to 100,000 particles per gram.
2. Trident: Trident gum has also been found to contain high levels of microplastics, with some samples containing up to 20,000 particles per gram.
3. Wrigley's: Wrigley's, the manufacturer of popular gum brands such as Juicy Fruit and Double mint, has also been found to contain microplastics.
4. Dentyne: Dentyne gum has been found to contain microplastics, with some samples containing up to 8,000 particles per gram.
5. Mentos: Mentos gum has also been found to contain microplastics, with some samples containing up to 5,000 particles per gram.
✓ Wet Wipes - Wet wipes can contain microplastics that are released into wastewater.
✓ Synthetic Insulation - Synthetic insulation can shed microplastics during use and disposal.
✓ Toys - Toys that contain plastic are likely to release microplastics when they are broken or worn down. However, the toys that contain the most microplastics are likely to be those that have small, flexible plastic parts that are easily broken or chewed on. Here are some examples of toys that may contain high levels of microplastics:
1. Rubber Ducks: Many rubber ducks are made of soft, flexible plastic that can break down easily and release microplastics.
2. Balloons: Balloons are often made of thin, flexible plastic that can easily break down into small particles.
3. Action Figures: Many action figures are made of plastic, and the small, flexible parts can break down easily and release microplastics.
4. Dolls: Dolls often contain plastic parts, such as hair, clothing, and accessories, which can break down and release microplastics.
5. Building Blocks: Many building blocks, such as Lego, are made of plastic and can release microplastics when they are worn down or broken.
Can One Get Rid of Microplastics?
There is no known method to remove microplastics from the body once they have been ingested or inhaled. The best way to reduce exposure to microplastics is to minimize the use of plastic products, recycle, and dispose of plastic waste properly. Consuming a healthy diet that is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory foods may also help to reduce the potential negative health effects of microplastics.
Common Types of Microplastics:
Microplastics can come in many shapes and sizes, but the most common types are:
❖ Microbeads: These are small, spherical plastic particles found in personal care and cosmetic products, such as exfoliating scrubs and toothpaste.
❖ Fibers: Synthetic fibers shed from clothing during washing and drying, and can also be released from synthetic carpets, upholstery, and other household items.
❖ Fragments: These are small pieces of broken-down plastic debris, such as fragments from plastic bags, bottles, and packaging materials.
❖ Films: These are thin sheets of plastic that can break down into small particles, such as those used in food packaging and plastic wrap.
❖ Pellets: These are small, spherical plastic pellets used as the raw material for manufacturing plastic products.
❖ Foam: This includes expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, commonly used in packaging materials and disposable food containers.
❖ Paints: Some paints contain microplastics that can be released into the environment during application and removal.
How to Reduce Exposure to Microplastics?
Reducing our use and exposure to plastic is the best way to avoid microplastics. Here are some steps that can be taken to reduce the release of microplastics in the environment:
o Use Reusable Water Bottles and Bags: By using reusable water bottles and bags, we can avoid using single-use plastics that are a major source of microplastics.
o Avoid Products with Microbeads: Many personal care products contain microbeads. Look for products that are labelled "microbead-free".
o Choose Natural Fibers: Choose clothing made from natural fibers like cotton, wool, or silk instead of synthetic materials like polyester, nylon or acrylic, which shed fibers during washing.
o Avoid Single-Use Plastics: Try to avoid using single-use plastics such as straws, cutlery, and take-out containers.
o Recycle Properly: Proper recycling of plastic products can help to reduce plastic waste and the release of microplastics into the environment.
o Use Non-Toxic Cleaning Products: Many cleaning products contain microplastics and other harmful chemicals. Choose non-toxic cleaning products that do not contain microplastics.
Can Filters Help to Remove Plastics from Water?
Not all water filters are designed to remove microplastics. Here are some of the types of filters that may be effective in removing microplastics:
➢ Reverse Osmosis (RO) Filters: RO filters use a semi-permeable membrane to filter out contaminants, including microplastics. These filters are effective at removing microplastics and other small particles from water.
➢ Activated Carbon Filters: Activated carbon filters can remove some microplastics depending on the pore size of the filter. The smaller the pore size, the more effective the filter will be at removing microplastics.
➢ Ceramic Filters: Ceramic filters can remove some microplastics, but their effectiveness may vary depending on the pore size and quality of the filter.
➢ Multi-Stage Filters: Some multi-stage filters combine different types of filter media to remove a variety of contaminants, including microplastics.
Self-Care Tips:
Cooking or microwaving food in plastic containers, pose several health problems, specifically, from chemicals such as Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates. BPA is a chemical compound that is used in the manufacturing of certain types of plastics, resins, and other consumer products.
As discussed, BPA has been known to mimic the effects of estrogen and can interfere with the hormonal system in the body. Due to these health concerns, many countries have banned the use of BPA in certain products, especially those intended for use by children. In the United States, the FDA has banned the use of BPA in baby bottles and sippy cups, but it is still allowed in other consumer products. Many manufacturers have also started to produce BPA-free alternatives for their products.
Consider These Cooking Materials:
There are several types of cookware that are considered safe and healthy to cook with. Here are some of the safest pans to cook with:
1. Stainless Steel: Stainless steel cookware is a popular choice for many home cooks. It is durable, versatile and does not react with acidic foods.
2. Ceramic: Ceramic cookware is a great option for those who want non-stick properties without the use of chemicals. It is also easy to clean and can go from stovetop to oven.
3. Glass: Glass cookware is a great option for baking and roasting. It is non-reactive and does not contain any harmful chemicals.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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