Gut Health
GABRIELLA NAGY
2 MIN READ

Invisible Invaders: The Rising Threat of Microplastics to Human Health

Invisible Invaders: The Rising Threat of Microplastics to Human Health

Microplastics - tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimetres in size - have become widespread in our environment, infiltrating air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we consume. Recent studies have detected these particles in human organs, including the brain, raising concerns about their potential health impacts. Understanding the primary sources of microplastic exposure and their effects on the human body is crucial as we navigate this emerging public health challenge.1,2

Primary Sources

  1. Seafood Consumption
    A recent study found microplastic contamination in 99% of tested seafood samples, with fibres from clothing and textiles comprising over 80% of the detected microplastics. Shrimp and herring exhibited particularly high levels, likely due to their feeding habits. Processed seafood also showed elevated contamination rates.3

  2. Inhalation of Airborne Particles
    Microplastics are present in urban dust, originating from sources like synthetic textiles and rubber tires. Inhalation of these airborne particles constitutes a significant route of exposure.4

  3. Ingestion Through Food and Water
    Beyond seafood, microplastics have been detected in various food items and water supplies, leading to ingestion and potential accumulation in the human body.5

Health Implications of Microplastic Exposure

Research indicates that microplastics can affect multiple systems within the human body:

  1. Digestive System
    Ingested microplastics may cause physical irritation to the gastrointestinal tract, leading to inflammation and symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. They can also disrupt the intestinal microbiome, resulting in an imbalance between beneficial and harmful bacteria.6

  2. Respiratory System
    Inhaled microplastics can induce oxidative stress in the airways and lungs, causing respiratory symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and shortness of breath due to inflammation and damage. Fatigue and dizziness may also occur due to reduced blood oxygen levels.7

  3. Endocrine & Reproductive Systems
    Microplastics can interfere with hormone production, release, transport, metabolism, and elimination, potentially leading to endocrine disorders, metabolic issues, developmental problems, and reproductive challenges such as infertility or miscarriage.8

  4. Immune System
    Accumulated exposure to microplastics has been linked to chronic inflammation and changes in homeostasis, potentially compromising immune function.9

Mitigation Strategies

To reduce microplastic exposure, consider the following measures:

  • Dietary Choices: Limit consumption of processed and high-risk seafood known for higher microplastic contamination.

  • Air Quality: Use air purifiers and maintain proper ventilation to minimise inhalation of airborne microplastics.

  • Water Filtration: Employ water filters capable of removing microplastic particles from drinking water.

  • Plastic Use Reduction: Minimise the use of plastic products, especially in food storage and preparation, to decrease ingestion of microplastics.10,11

Conclusion

The presence of microplastics in our environment and their infiltration into the human body underscore the need for comprehensive research to fully understand their health impacts. In the meantime, individuals can mitigate exposure by reducing the use of plastic products, choosing natural fibre clothing, and supporting policies aimed at decreasing environmental plastic pollution. Collective action is essential to address this invisible, yet existing threat to public health.

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References
  1. ACS, 2023. Microplastics found in human heart tissues, both before and after surgical procedures. American Chemical Society. Available at: https://www.acs.org/pressroom/presspacs/2023/august/microplastics-found-in-human-heart-tissues-before-and-after-surgical-procedures.html
  2. Roslan et al. Detection of microplastics in human tissues and organs: A scoping review. J Glob Health. 14:04179.
  3. Traylor et al. From the ocean to our kitchen table: anthropogenic particles in the edible tissue of U.S. West Coast seafood species. Front. Toxicol. Sec. Environmental Toxicology.
  4. Prata, J.C. 2018. Airborne microplastics: Consequences to human health? Environ. Pollut. 2018;234:115–126.
  5. Mason et al. Synthetic Polymer Contamination in Bottled Water. Front. Chem. 6:407.
  6. Jin et al. Impacts of polystyrene microplastic on the gut barrier, microbiota and metabolism of mice. Sci Total Environ. 649:308–317.
  7. Lin et al. Metabolomics reveal nanoplastic-induced mitochondrial damage in human liver and lung cells. Environ Sci Technol. 56:12483–12493.
  8. Vandenberg, L.N., Luthi, D., Quinerly, D.A. 2017. Plastic bodies in a plastic world: multi-disciplinary approaches to study endocrine disrupting chemicals. J Clean Prod. 140:373–385.
  9. Détrée, C and Gallardo-Escárate, C. 2018. Single and repetitive microplastics exposures induce immune system modulation and homeostasis alteration in the edible mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis. Fish Shellfish Immunol. 83:52–60.
  10. Prata et al. Solutions and Integrated Strategies for the Control and Mitigation of Plastic and Microplastic Pollution*. Int J Environ Res Public Health.* 16(13):2411.
  11. Perch Energy. 2024. Easy Ways to Reduce Microplastic Pollution & Consumption In Your Daily Life. Available at: https://www.perchenergy.com/blog/lifestyle/reduce-microplastic-pollution-consumption

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