Are Microplastics Harmful to Your Health?
Tiny plastic particles are found in food, water and air
Tiny plastic particles are found in food, water and air
Plastics are everywhere. It’s nearly impossible to avoid exposure to plastics in some form. They’re in product packaging, synthetic fabrics, single-use bottles and bags, kitchen utensils and many other everyday items.
These plastic products can shed small particles, called microplastics, which can end up in the food we eat, the water we drink and the air we breathe.
Microplastics have become pervasive in the environment. A growing number of studies have shown that they’re also present in our bodies. Last year, University of New Mexico researchers detailed the presence of plastic in human brains, kidneys, livers and even placentas. Although this may be alarming, it’s important to not let anxiety get the best of you, says Brian Park, DO, a family medicine physician at Scripps Clinic Encinitas.
“This has been going on for as long as we have been manufacturing anything with plastics in it. They are everywhere and we are constantly exposed to them,” he says. “But just because they are present, doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re causing harm.”
What does research say?
Research is ongoing, but it’s unclear if or when we’ll ever know the exact risks that come with exposure to microplastics.
“There are many very loose correlations — and that distinction is very important.
People hear that exposure to microplastics has links to chronic conditions, like heart disease, cancers and respiratory issues, and it's easy to think that they directly caused these issues,” says Dr. Park. “But again, just because plastics are present in people with chronic conditions doesn’t necessarily mean that they were direct causes.”
How to reduce microplastic exposure
There are a few ways to minimize exposure to microplastics:
- Avoid eating or drinking from a plastic container.
- Don’t put plastic in the microwave or dishwasher.
- Stay away from unfiltered tap water.
- Stick to wood cutting boards.
- Invest in an air purifier if you live near a busy roadway.
Take a holistic approach to reduce risk
Dr. Park recommends a holistic approach that also includes taking care of your general health by getting good sleep, eating healthy, staying active and cultivating and maintaining good relationships.
“Avoiding microplastics entirely would be impossible, but it’s good to set up our environment so that we minimize exposure, because at this point, we don’t truly know what the consequences may be,” Dr. Park says.
“Avoiding certain types of microplastics that have been shown to cause more harm would be reasonable, but practicing common sense is key. Make your overall health your first priority. Avoiding microplastics may be beneficial, but it doesn't have to be your main goal.”
This content appeared in San Diego Health, a publication in partnership between Scripps and San Diego Magazine that celebrates the healthy spirit of San Diego.