What Does Microplastic Do To Your Body?

What are microplastics?

Let’s start with the basics. Microplastics are tiny bits of plastic, usually smaller than 5mm, that come from all sorts of places. Think of that plastic water bottle you tossed last week or the packaging from your latest online order. Over time, these items break down into smaller pieces, becoming microplastics. They’re sneaky little things, popping up in our oceans, soil, and even the air we breathe. At Plastic Expert, we’re all about tackling plastic waste, but the truth is, microplastics are already everywhere – and they’re causing a bit of a stir when it comes to our health.

These plastic particles don’t just stay put either. They’re created from bigger plastics breaking apart or from things like cosmetics and synthetic fabrics shedding tiny bits. The amount of microplastics floating around is mind-boggling, and it’s no surprise people are asking what they’re doing to us.

Quick Fact! There are approximately 51 trillion microscopic pieces of plastic, weighing 269,000 tons in the ocean. That’s about the same as 1,345 adult blue whales. 

How do microplastics get into your body

So, how do these pesky microplastics particles end up inside you? It’s simpler than you might think. Every day, you’re exposed to them without even realising it. Drinking water is a big one – yep, even that glass you just poured might have tiny bits of plastic in it. Studies have shown that tap and bottled water alike can contain microplastics, thanks to plastic pollution in the environment.

Then there’s food. Fish and shellfish, for instance, often ingest microplastics from the sea, and when you eat them, those bits can transfer to you. It’s not just seafood either – salt, sugar, and even honey have been found with traces of these tiny invaders. Breathing them in is another way they sneak into the human body including your lungs. Dust in your home or particles in the air? Some of that could be microplastics too.

At Plastic Expert, we see businesses dealing with plastic waste daily, and it’s clear that reducing plastic use is key. But the exposure to microplastics is already happening, and it’s tough to avoid completely.

What happens when microplastics enter your system

Once microplastics are in your body, they don’t just sit there quietly. They can travel through your gastrointestinal tract, potentially causing trouble along the way. Some of these particles are so small they might even slip into your bloodstream or tissues. Animal studies have shown that microplastics can build up in organs like the liver, kidneys, and intestines.

The thing is, these plastics often carry chemicals, like endocrine disrupting compounds, that can mess with your hormones. Imagine them as unwanted guests that gatecrash your body’s carefully balanced party. Scientists are still figuring out the full picture, but the idea of plastic bits wandering around inside you isn’t exactly comforting, is it?

The impact of microplastics on your health

Now, let’s get to the big question – what’s the impact of microplastics on your health? Research is still catching up, but what we know so far isn’t great. For one, there’s evidence linking microplastics to inflammation in the body. When your system tries to deal with these foreign invaders, it can spark irritation, especially in places like your gut.

There’s also talk of metabolic disorders being a potential risk. These tiny plastics might interfere with how your body processes energy, which could lead to issues like obesity or diabetes down the line. Reproductive systems could be affected too, thanks to those hormone-disrupting chemicals hitching a ride on the plastic particle.

The effects of microplastics on human health are still being studied, but some worry about adverse effects like cell damage or even cancer risks from long-term exposure. It’s not all doom and gloom – your body is pretty good at flushing out unwanted stuff – but the sheer amount of microplastics we’re dealing with makes it a growing concern. At Plastic Expert, we’re all about cutting down plastic pollution, and this is one big reason why.

Can you avoid microplastics

Here’s the tricky bit – completely dodging microplastics is near impossible. They’re in the air, your food, and even those plastic water bottles you might grab on the go. But don’t lose hope! There are ways to cut down your exposure and help tackle the problem.

Start small – swap out single-use plastics for reusable options. A stainless steel water bottle beats plastic any day. Eating less processed food can help too, as packaging often adds to the microplastics load. And when it comes to the bigger picture, using businesses that recycle waste, like us at Plastic Expert, can make a dent in plastic waste overall for businesses.

It’s not about perfection – it’s about reduced plastic use where you can. Every little bit helps shrink the microplastics mess we’re all in. Plus, it feels good knowing you’re doing your part, right?

FAQs

Are microplastics only in water?

No, they’re not just in drinking water. You can find microplastics in food, air, and even soil. They’re pretty much everywhere, thanks to how widespread plastic use is.

Can your body get rid of microplastics?

Your body can flush some out, especially through your gastrointestinal tract. But really tiny bits might stick around longer, and that’s where the worry comes in.

How can I tell if I’m eating microplastics?

You can’t really spot them yourself – they’re too small to see. Studies have found them in things like seafood, salt, and even honey, so it’s more about knowing they’re there than spotting them.

Is it worth worrying about microplastics?

It’s worth keeping an eye on. Scientists are still figuring out the full effects of microplastics on human health, but the early signs suggest it’s something we should care about – and try to reduce.

What’s the best way to cut down on microplastics?

Switching to reusable stuff, like bags and bottles, is a great start. Also, supporting proper recycling efforts – like what we do at Plastic Expert – helps tackle the root of the problem.