Researchers are showing that microplastics can make their way into the brain, heart, lungs, and kidneys, and have found that microplastic levels are higher in the brains of people with dementia. Studies have found nano plastics in the plaques of carotid arteries in humans with a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, or death. Microplastics are suspected to have a potential link to colon and lung cancer. Microplastics are more of a concern for older adults, as our bodies are not able to repair the harm they cause.
While we can’t avoid plastics altogether, there are ways to reduce our exposure.
1. Cut back on single-use plastics.
Choose alternatives to the plastics you use once and then toss, such as plastic wrap, bags, cutlery and food and beverage containers, whenever possible.
2. Opt for water from the faucet rather than bottled.
One 2024 study found that an average liter of bottled water contained 240,000 tiny pieces of plastic. Fill up a reusable stainless steel or glass bottle.
3. Don’t mix plastic containers and heat.
Don’t place hot foods in plastic or reheat food in place and some foods shouldn’t even be stored in plastic. For example, oil can cause plastic to leach into food.
4. Extend that caution to hot beverages.
Disposable cups are most likely lined with plastic and when hot liquid hits that plastic, microplastics are released into your drink. Bring your own reusable, non-plastic cup and as a bonus some coffee shops will give you a small discount. Micro and nanoplastics are found in teabags so instead looseleaf tea in a reusable stainless-steel steeper.
5. Look for alternatives to plastic cutting boards and cooking utensils.
Plastic cutting boards are a potential source of microplastics in food. Instead uses boards made of metal, glass, marble, bamboo or wood. Swap out silicone or metal for plastic cooking utensils
6. Focus on minimally processed foods.
A 2024 study looked at 16 types of protein, including fish and shellfish, pork, beef, and chicken, and plant-based proteins such as tofu and meat replacements, and found microplastics in 88 percent of the samples. Steer clear of processed foods, which contain more microplastics than minimally processed foods. And try to avoid plastic packaging altogether.
The above information is a summary of an article by Katherine Hobson in AARP magazine. You can read the full article here.
