Microplastics are now found in our blood, lungs, guts and even our brains. Scientists estimate the average person carries about 5g of plastic inside them — roughly a teaspoon’s worth.
Austrian researchers recently showed that microplastics can alter gut bacteria in ways linked to depression and colorectal cancer. “Reducing exposure is a wise precaution,” said Dr Christian Pacher-Deutsch.
The particles come from packaging, clothing, tyres and cosmetics. Some are tiny enough to enter organs and cells. “We’re finding them in almost every tissue studied,” said Dr Jaime Ross from the University of Rhode Island, whose mice exposed to microplastics showed brain changes seen in dementia and depression.
Although plastic has been found in human brains and arteries, experts urge caution. “We don’t yet know how harmful it really is,” said Prof Stephanie Wright of Imperial College London.
Different plastics and sizes behave differently, and research is still young. But scientists agree that cutting exposure can only help.
How to Reduce Exposure
- Don’t heat food or drinks in plastic.
- Use glass or metal instead.
- Avoid teabags sealed with plastic glue.
- Choose natural fabrics and wooden boards.
- Check cosmetics for plastic-based ingredients.
We can’t escape microplastics completely — but we can start to limit how much ends up inside us.
