Microplastics are everywhere – in our blood, lungs, guts and even brains. Researchers estimate the average person carries about a teaspoon of plastic inside them.
Austrian scientists found that microplastics can disrupt gut bacteria in ways linked to depression and cancer. “Reducing exposure is a wise precaution,” said Dr Christian Pacher-Deutsch, who led the study.
Microplastics come from packaging, clothes, cosmetics and tyres. They’re tiny enough to enter cells. “We’re finding them in almost every tissue,” said Dr Jaime Ross, whose research showed mice exposed to microplastics had brain changes similar to dementia.
Human studies have found plastic in the brains of dementia patients and in arteries of people with heart disease. But experts warn against panic. “We don’t yet know how harmful these levels are,” said Prof Stephanie Wright of Imperial College London.
Still, researchers advise cutting exposure where possible. Avoid heating food in plastic, use glass or metal containers, switch to wooden boards, and choose natural fabrics and loose-leaf tea.
Microplastics can’t be avoided entirely, but small changes may help reduce their impact — on both our bodies and the planet.
