According to the Mayo Clinic, there is an estimated 400 million tons of plastic produced annually, and that number is predicted to double by 2050. Microplastics and nanoplastics are miniscule pieces of plastic formed by the breakdown of larger plastic items.  Microplastics are pieces of plastics 1 micron to 5mm in diameter. Nano plastics are anything smaller than 1 micron.  Often, plastic contains chemical additives to enhance its performance. These microplastics and their associated chemicals due to their small size can be ingested through food and drinks, absorbed through the skin, or inhaled into the human body causing long-term health concerns.  

Microplastics have been found throughout the body including the blood, spleen, liver, colon, lungs, feces, placenta, and breast milk. Microplastics are known to lodge in tissue and stay there for a long time.  Research is showing a possible connection between microplastics and an increased risk of stroke and heart attacks, as well as links to harming hormone and reproductive systems according to the EWG (Environmental Working Group).  A study at the University of Rhode Island found that mice who drank tiny pieces of plastic in their water showed the plastic crossed the blood brain barrier causing significant cognitive decline, similar to dementia, after only 3 weeks of ingesting the plastic contaminated water.

The research on the health effects of microplastics and chemicals found in plastic is limited at this point and more research is needed to find out the full extent of damage caused by microplastics in the human body.  Until more conclusive research is available, it may be wise to try and limit your exposure to micro and nanoplastics.  Below are some ways you can reduce the chance of them entering your body according to the EWG:

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