Understanding Microplastics

While plastic products are convenient, they may do more harm than good. Plastic is everywhere, even in places we don’t want, like our homes, in the water we drink, and food we eat. Microplastics end up in body tissue and put our health at risk. This week on Fox17, Dr.Bitner shares what microplastics are, how they affect us, and tips to avoid them. 

Fact #1

Microplastics are small plastic particles ranging in size from 5 mm to a nanoplastic size of 1mm. They do not just pollute the oceans; they’re in everyday items like plastic products, household dust, food, drinking water, and cosmetics. Once ingested, they can enter our bodies and lead to long-term health issues.

Fact #2

Microplastics have been found in major organs like the heart, liver, kidneys, reproductive organs and the brain. While more research is needed, new studies have shown a range of negative health effects. The particles:

• Invoke an inflammatory response
• Contain hormone-imitating chemicals
• Disrupt necessary bodily functions
• Increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and other major health risks 

Fact #3

We must limit our plastic use and clean up existing waste. In an effort to reduce pollution, The UN has secured commitments from 175 nations to create a binding agreement.The initiative aims to reduce single-use plastics, improve disposal methods, and cut the 11 tons of plastic entering our oceans annually. At the consumer level, people must demand affordable alternatives to everyday necessities like food wrapping and drinking water. 

Fact #4

To reduce your consumption of microplastics:

• Remove your shoes at the door to reduce plastic-containing dust in your home.
• Add an air filter to reduce dust and other microplastic containing particles.
• Use non-plastic wrapping to store food.
• Stop using plastic water bottles (240,000 plastic particles per 1 liter).
• Reduce processed foods. 
• Do not microwave food in plastic containers.
• Ask for a paper bag at the grocery store. 
• Don’t use plastic cutting boards. 
• Ask for meat to be wrapped in paper.

We can’t eliminate microplastics, but we can reduce our intake by choosing alternatives such as wooden cutting boards, wrapping food in parchment paper, and using glass containers like mason jars.

Patient story:

Jane, 60, read a new study about microplastics and discovered they are found in many body tissues and could increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and dementia. She worried this might affect her and her family’s health and was unsure how to implement changes to reduce microplastics. 

After some more research, Jane began to change her habits. She avoided plastic as much as possible in her kitchen and food by wrapping meat and fish in paper and avoiding plastic food wrap, cutting boards, cups, and water bottles. Jane also installed a HEAP filter and furnace in the house and made her home a no-shoe house. Jane knew it might not be much, but she felt at ease knowing she was doing all she could. 

Takeaway Tip:

Prioritize your future well-being by eliminating the convenience of plastic products and reducing your exposure to microplastics. Your health deserves the best, so make mindful choices today to age well. 

Watch the full segment here.