Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic (the size of a sesame seed or less) that come from broken down larger plastic pieces, as well as microbeads – intentionally tiny plastic pieces used in products like some exfoliants, cleansers and toothpastes. These tiny particles pass through water filters and end up in lakes, rivers, oceans, and our water supply.
Although many studies have shown that microplastics are harmful to human health, a new study looked specifically at the effect of microplastics on the gut. This is relevant because so many health conditions, including of our immune system, are affected by the health of our digestive tract. In fact, our gut is one of the biggest defence zones in the body – a majority of immune cells are located here, micro-policing the barrier with a surface area the size of half a badminton court.
Here’s what we know microplastics can do in the gut:
- Cause oxidative damage and inflammation
- Damage gut barrier cells
- Reduce the mucus layer
- Disturb the microbiome
- Toxic to immune cells
Although microplastics are widely dispersed, we can still take steps to reduce our exposure and contribution to the microplastics problem:
1. Filter water using microfiltration, activated carbon, or reverse osmosis (just remember with reverse osmosis that you’ll need to ensure adequate mineral intake from other sources)
2. Avoid synthetic fabrics, which release microfibers, a type of microplastic, during washing and machine drying. And while you transition, use a laundry ball (like a Cora ball) to catch microfibers in your dryer so they don’t enter the water system.
3. Avoid cosmetics containing microbeads – many countries, including the US, are now banning these
4. Reduce plastic use in general, especially single-use plastics
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33933760/
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