Plastic in Our Brains: What You Need to Know About Microplastics and Your Health
In recent years, scientists have uncovered a startling truth: microplastics, which are tiny fragments of plastic less than 5 millimeters in size, are not just polluting our oceans and food chains; they’re accumulating inside our bodies, including our brains.
Microplastics Found in the Human Brain
A groundbreaking study by researchers at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center revealed that microplastics are present in human brain tissue at concentrations significantly higher than in other organs like the liver and kidneys. By analyzing brain samples from 47 deceased individuals, the study found that microplastic levels in the brain have increased by approximately 50% between 2016 and 2024.
Alarmingly, some individuals had up to 7 grams of microplastics in their brains, which is the equivalent weight of a plastic spoon. These particles were predominantly polyethylene, a common plastic used in packaging and containers.
How Do Microplastics Enter the Brain?
Microplastics can infiltrate the human body through various pathways:
- Inhalation: Breathing in airborne microplastics, especially in urban environments, can introduce these particles into the respiratory system.
- Ingestion: Consuming food and water contaminated with microplastics, such as seafood or bottled water, is another common route.
Once inside the body, these tiny particles can cross the blood-brain barrier, which is a protective shield that typically prevents harmful substances from entering the brain. Additionally, studies have found microplastics in the olfactory bulb, suggesting that inhaled particles can travel directly to the brain via the nasal passages
Potential Health Implications
While the full impact of microplastics on human health is still under investigation, their presence in the brain raises several concerns:
- Inflammation: Microplastics can trigger inflammatory responses, potentially leading to tissue damage.
- Neurological Effects: Some studies have observed higher concentrations of microplastics in the brains of individuals with dementia, suggesting a possible link, though causation has not been established
- Chemical Exposure: Microplastics can carry harmful chemicals like phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), which are known to disrupt hormonal functions and may contribute to various health issues
Steps to Reduce Microplastic Exposure
While it’s challenging to eliminate microplastic exposure entirely, certain lifestyle changes can help minimize it. Try switching to non-plastic alternatives like glass, stainless steel, or ceramic, particularly for food storage and heating. Install a water filter to minimize the tiny plastic particles in your tap water. When choosing personal care items, avoid ingredients like polyethylene or polypropylene – especially in your clothing, bedding, children’s toys, furniture, furnishings, and any other items within your living space.
Additionally, many personal care products, like facial scrubs, body washes, shampoos, toothpaste, and even some anti-aging creams, contain tiny plastic beads called microbeads. These are often added to give a scrubbing texture or to help with exfoliation. Although some countries have banned microbeads in certain products, many still slip through in items like cosmetics and specialty creams. These microbeads don’t break down and can easily enter our water systems, and eventually, our bodies. Checking product labels and choosing natural alternatives can go a long way in reducing your exposure.
Cutting back on processed foods can also help, since these are often packaged or made in ways that introduce more plastic particles. Buy in bulk to cut down on plastic use. Lastly, improve your indoor air quality by ventilating your space regularly and using air purifiers to help filter out airborne microplastics.
The Bigger Picture
Finding microplastics in the human brain shows just how widespread plastic pollution has become, and how it might affect our health. While scientists are still learning more about what these tiny plastic pieces do to our bodies, it’s important for both everyday people and decision-makers to take action now to use less plastic and lower our exposure. By making smart choices and supporting efforts to protect the environment, we can help create a healthier future for ourselves and the planet.
For more information, feel free to check out our info sheet on Avoiding Plastics : Do’s and Don’ts.
