Plastic is everywhere around us. Whether it’s the constantly overflowing recycling bin in your kitchen, the alarming piles of plastic waste along our shorelines, or the minuscule microplastics that contaminate our laundry water, this synthetic material has infiltrated almost every facet of our lives, including our bodies.
Given the widespread presence of plastic, it’s perhaps not shocking that microplastics—pieces of plastic smaller than five millimeters—are entering our bodies. These tiny particles come from the food we consume, the water we drink, and even the air we inhale. One study suggests that the average American ingests approximately 50,000 microplastic particles per year.
Presence of Microplastics in Our Bodies
Remarkably, a recent biomonitoring study has revealed that plastic is not merely passing through our systems; it is actually being retained within our bodies. Research conducted in the Netherlands indicated that 80 percent of the participants had plastic particles present in their bloodstream.
It is alarming to realize that these minute, invisible particles from everyday plastic products can dislodge and enter our bodies. Even more concerning is the fact that they can be absorbed—along with any potentially harmful chemicals they carry—into the bloodstream, where they can be circulated throughout our bodies along with vital oxygen and nutrients.
While it remains unclear what portion of ingested plastic enters the bloodstream compared to what is consumed, it is evident that absorption occurs more rapidly than the body’s ability to eliminate these particles, leading to their accumulation.
Research Findings
To draw these conclusions, blood samples were taken from 22 healthy adults. Researchers tested for specific byproducts produced when plastics decompose under elevated temperatures.
They identified five primary, widely-used polymers:
- Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), which is utilized in medical applications, including dental work.
- Polypropylene (PP), found in a range of products from yogurt containers to condiment bottles.
- Polymerized styrene (PS), often seen in single-use and disposable items.
- Polyethylene (PE), the most prevalent plastic, used in items like plastic wrap, grocery bags, and milk cartons.
- Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), commonly found in plastic bottles, food containers, electronics, and fiber for clothing.
The Path Ahead
This initial study indicates that plastics are being absorbed into our bloodstream. However, more extensive research is needed to fully understand the implications of microplastics on our health and their long-term effects.
Reducing Plastic Exposure
In the meantime, there are effective strategies to minimize plastic exposure in our daily routines. Here are several suggestions to help you make a positive change:
- Maintain proper ventilation in your home to decrease exposure to airborne microplastics from household plastic items.
- Avoid using plastic water bottles, as they significantly contribute to microplastic exposure.
- Substitute cling wrap and plastic food containers with beeswax wraps and glass or metal options.
- Replace plastic bags with durable, reusable alternatives that you’ll enjoy using for years to come.
- Be selective when choosing infant feeding bottles, children’s cups, and plastic dishware to avoid hazardous chemicals. If alternatives like glass (note: they can break) or metal are not feasible, reduce microplastic shedding by refraining from heating plastic bottles, hand-washing them with warm water instead of hot, storing milk separately, and avoiding shaking liquids in plastic containers.
