Spoiler Alert: The Microplastic Situation Is Even Worse Than We Thought Though You Can Take Action!
Microplastics are probably a much bigger problem than we realise.
Do everything possible—while staying sane—to reduce exposure. They've been found in the lungs, liver, testes, brain, even placenta.
"Microplastics were detected in 8/12 human organ systems including cardiovascular, digestive, endocrine, integumentary, lymphatic, respiratory, reproductive and urinary. Microplastics were also observed in other human biological samples such as breastmilk, meconium, semen, stool, sputum and urine." (Nur Sakinah Roslan. Et al, 2024)
Starting with Three Top Tips:
>> Get rid of your plastic kettle 🫖 or kettle with plastic parts inside - yep, it leeches, especially the roof of the kettle and the plastic bits by the spout 🫖.
Obvious right - plastic in an environment that is constantly boiled - then you drink it. Hmmm
>> Beta-Glucans Can Help Remove Microplastics (Reishi, Turkey Tail and the ENRICHD 7 are great sources of these 🍄)
One study suggests that beta-glucans found in oats may help the body eliminate microplastics. Dr Rhonda Patrick (in her interview with Chris Williamson) notes that medicinal mushrooms, like Reishi 🍄, are also a great source of Beta Glucans.
>> BPA FREE? Not a green flag. Often other plastic ingredients (just as harmful) are added.
Like we said - do what you can while keeping your sanity :)
Microplastics: The Hidden Threat and How to Reduce Exposure
What Are Microplastics?
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, typically less than 5 millimeters in size, that come from the breakdown of larger plastic waste or are intentionally manufactured for products like cosmetics, clothing, and industrial applications. These particles have infiltrated every corner of the planet—from deep ocean trenches to the air we breathe and even our bodies.
The Health Risks of Microplastics
Recent research suggests that microplastics can accumulate in the body, potentially leading to inflammation, hormonal disruptions, and other health issues including cognitive problems. Scientists have found plastic particles in human lungs, blood, and even placentas. While long-term effects are still being studied, reducing exposure can be thought of as a must-do precaution. We're certainly doing as many of the suggestions below as possible!
Everyday Sources of Microplastics:
Microplastics come from a variety of sources, many of which are common in daily life:
🚫 Plastic Cooking Utensils – Swop for wood / bamboo / olive wood.
🚫 Plastic Bottles – Degradation over time releases microplastics into the liquid.
🚫 Takeaway Coffee Cups – The plastic lining breaks down in hot beverages.
🚫 Non-Stick Cookware – Teflon and other coatings shed particles during cooking.
🚫 Synthetic Clothing – Washing synthetic fabrics releases microplastics into the water.
🚫 Household Dust – Synthetic fibers shed particles that become airborne.
🚫 Food Packaging – Plastic wraps and containers can leach particles into food.
🚫 Personal Care Products – Some cosmetics and scrubs contain microbeads, and synthetic fragrances or parfum can be plastic-based.
How to Minimize Microplastic Exposure:
The good news is that there are practical steps you can take to reduce microplastic intake and help your body eliminate them.
SWOP or AVOID:
🔄 Swop plastic-lined coffee cups for a reusable ceramic, stainless steel or glass cup.
🔄 Swop Teflon and non-stick pans for a stainless steel or cast iron cookware.
🔄 Avoid touching receipts. I ignored this for a while though after listening to Dr Rhonda Patrick recently I will be avoiding touching receipts because of the thermal (heat) printing on plastic coated paper.
🔄 Swop synthetic clothes and bedding for Cotton, Bamboo hemp are all good choices.
🔄 Swop out polyester, nylon, and acrylic for natural fibers like cotton, bamboo, hemp or wool.
🔄 Swop excessive plastic packaging for fresh produce without plastic wrap.
🔄 Avoid microwaving food in plastic. If you use a microwave, use glass or ceramic containers instead.
🔄 Swop plastic bottled water for a stainless steel or glass bottle. Think of it as an investment or sort yourself a great home water filter
🔄 Avoid most chewing gum. Really? Many gums contain plastic-derived ingredients. Bonkers right!? There are some natural alternatives like CHEWSY
🔄 Avoid cosmetics with parfum, fragrace or microbeads. Check labels for polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP).
🔄 Avoid cheap synthetic air fresheners. They often contain synthetic polymers that become airborne which means they enter your lungs and can get to organs like your liver, brain, kidneys and testes and ovary fluids.
TRY THESE WAYS OF REDUCING EXPOSURE TO MICROPLASTICS:
💚 Use a high-quality water filter, including reverse osmosis. Removes microplastics and other contaminants.
Cooking Utensils – Swop for wood / bamboo / olive wood.
💚 Choose glass, metal, or ceramic. Store food in non-plastic containers.
💚 Eat more fresh, organic foods. Processed foods often contain more plastic contamination.
💚 Use a home air purifier. This helps reduce airborne microplastics indoors.
💚 Use a microfiber-catching laundry bag. Reduces microplastic shedding from synthetic clothes.
💚 Install a washing machine filter. Traps microplastics before they enter the water supply.
💚 Drink more filtered water. Helps flush out accumulated microplastics.
💚 Increase fiber intake. Fiber helps move contaminants out of the digestive system.
💚 Eat beta-glucan-rich foods. Oats and medicinal mushrooms like Reishi help remove plastics from your body.
💚 Exercise regularly. Sweating helps eliminate toxins, including microplastics.
How to Help Your Body Get Rid of Microplastics
While the body has detoxification systems, certain habits can support the elimination of microplastics.
1. Hydrate with Filtered Water
Drinking plenty of clean, filtered water helps flush out toxins through urine and bowel movements.
2. Eat More Fiber-Rich Foods
High-fiber foods like leafy greens, flaxseeds, and whole grains help move microplastics through the digestive tract more efficiently.
3. Get Enough Antioxidants
Foods rich in antioxidants—such as berries, nuts, and dark chocolate—help combat inflammation caused by microplastics.
4. Eat Beta-Glucan-Rich Foods
Studies suggest that beta-glucans found in oats and medicinal mushrooms, like Reishi, may help the body eliminate microplastics.
5. Sweat it Out
Regular exercise and sauna use encourage sweating, which helps eliminate certain contaminants, including microplastics.
6. Urinate Frequently
Urination is a key way the body removes toxins, including microplastics, making hydration essential.
7. Reduce Processed Foods
Packaged and processed foods often contain plastic contamination. Eating whole, fresh foods minimizes exposure.
8. Use Natural Skincare and Cosmetics
Many conventional beauty products contain microplastics. Opt for natural, organic alternatives.
9. Keep Your Home Clean
Vacuum and dust frequently to reduce airborne microplastic particles from synthetic materials in furniture and clothing.
Final Thoughts
Microplastics are a growing concern, but small lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your exposure and help your body eliminate them. By making conscious choices—like avoiding plastic-lined coffee cups, switching to glass or stainless steel containers, and choosing natural fabrics—you can protect both your health and the environment. Every action counts in the fight against plastic pollution!
Studies of Interest and Relevance:
1) Microplastics in Terrestrial Domestic Animals and Human Health: Implications for Food Security and Food Safety and Their Role as Sentinels
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9205308/
2) Harmful effects of the microplastic pollution on animal health: a literature review
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9205308
3) An oat fiber intervention for reducing PFAS body burden
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39647509/
4) Microplastics are in our bodies. How much do they harm us?
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/microplastics-are-in-our-bodies-how-much-do-they-harm-us
5) Detection of microplastics in human tissues and organs: A scoping review https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11342020/