What are the effects of microplastics on the human body?

From the Guidelines

Microplastics pose a significant risk to human health, potentially causing harm through inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular damage, and it is crucial to minimize exposure to them through drinking water and other sources. The presence of microplastics in drinking water has been reported in several studies, including a critical review and assessment of data quality published in 2019 1. This study highlights the challenges in assessing the risks of microplastics to humans and the environment due to the variability of their physical and chemical properties, composition, and concentration.

Some of the key mechanisms by which microplastics can harm the human body include:

• Accumulation in organs such as the lungs, liver, kidneys, and potentially crossing the blood-brain barrier
• Causing inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular damage
• Carrying harmful chemicals like plasticizers, flame retardants, and heavy metals that leach into body tissues
• Disrupting the gut microbiome, potentially affecting digestion and immune function
• Interfering with hormone systems and potentially contributing to chronic diseases

To reduce exposure to microplastics, several steps can be taken, including:

• Using glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic
• Avoiding single-use plastics
• Filtering drinking water
• Eating less packaged foods
• Properly ventilating your home

It is essential to note that while complete avoidance of microplastics is impossible in modern life, minimizing exposure can help reduce the potential risks associated with these particles. Further research is needed to fully understand the long-term health effects of microplastics, but taking proactive steps to reduce exposure can help mitigate potential harm. The study published in 2019 1 emphasizes the need for a systematic review of methodologies used and study characteristics to better understand the risks associated with microplastics in drinking water.

From the Research

Effects of Microplastics on the Human Body

• Microplastics have been found to be ubiquitous in the environment, and humans are exposed to them through ingestion of food and drink, as well as inhalation 2, 3.
• The effects of microplastics on human health are not yet fully understood, but studies suggest that they may provoke immune and stress responses, and induce reproductive and developmental toxicity 2.
• Microplastics have been shown to cause oxidative stress, DNA damage, organ dysfunction, metabolic disorder, immune response, neurotoxicity, and reproductive and developmental toxicity in experimental models 3.
• The size, shape, chemical composition, surface charge, and hydrophobicity of microplastics can influence their toxicity 4.
• Microplastics may also act as obesogens, contributing to the development of obesity and related disorders 4.

Mechanisms of Microplastic Toxicity

• Microplastics can enter the human body through ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact 3, 5.
• Once inside the body, microplastics can cause damage to cells and tissues, leading to inflammation and other adverse effects 5, 4.
• Microplastics can also leach chemicals, such as phthalates and bisphenols, which can cause additional toxicity 4.

Health Risks Associated with Microplastic Exposure

• Exposure to microplastics has been linked to a range of health problems, including cancer, diabetes, and allergic reactions 6.
• The ingestion of microplastics has been estimated to be in the tens of thousands to millions of particles per year, highlighting the need for further research into the health effects of microplastic exposure 4.
• The potential health risks of microplastic exposure are a concern, and further studies are needed to fully understand the effects of microplastics on human health 2, 3, 6.