Microplastics – what’s the deal?

Microplastics – what’s the deal?

Microplastics are found on virtually every part of the planet and scientists are researching these tiny nanoparticles to learn more about their impact. They’re everywhere – from our oceans, air, land and even our own bodies. Microplastics are pollutants formed by the breakdown of plastics or are released from textiles. While these teeny tiny plastic bits have crept into our tissues, bloodstreams, and even in the air we breathe, there’s no need to panic.  There are proactive steps we can take to help our bodies detox and reduce exposure.

Here’s what the research currently suggests about reducing microplastic levels in the body and enhancing the body’s natural detox pathways.

Understanding microplastics in the body

Microplastics, particles under 5 millimetres, can arise from a variety of sources, including degradation of larger plastic products. They enter the body mainly through ingestion or inhalation, for example when eating food that’s been stored or heated in plastics containers.  Plastic water bottles are currently being investigated as a major source of microplastics.

These particles can lodge in various tissues, from the liver to the brain. Research shows they may carry potentially harmful substances called bisphenol A (BPA) and bisphenol S (BPS) that could influence things like hormone balance and heart health.

A study found 15 types of microplastics in human faeces, with higher concentrations in individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) compared to healthy individuals. The amount of microplastics in faeces was also shown to correlate with the severity of the disease.

The more we learn about microplastics, the better we can protect ourselves and our loved ones.

1.    Reducing Exposure in Daily Life

Preventing microplastic accumulation starts with reducing exposure.  Try these tips:

  • Filtered water: since tap water and bottled water can contain microplastics, filtered water offers a cleaner alternative.  Look for filters with activated carbon or reverse osmosis, which are particularly effective.
  • Alternative packaging: skip plastic containers, especially for heating, as this can release microplastics. Even disposable paper coffee cups are often lined with plastic that leaches microplastics when exposed to hot liquids.  Hot tip (pun intended): go sustainable with a reusable coffee cup!  One of our favourites is the Project Pargo cup, which keeps drinks hot for up to 6 hours and is free of BPA and other toxins and an added bonus, it should fit under your favourite barista’s coffee machine group head!
  • Mindful food choices: minimising processed foods and those wrapped in plastic can reduce your exposure. This is especially critical for items you may use a lot, like salt, which often contain microplastics due to its production process. Although more research is still needed in this area, Celtic sea salt currently appears to be a decent option.  Try our WholeLife brand.

2.    Supporting natural detoxification: the liver’s role

The liver is crucial in detoxifying various substances, including some microplastics, via two primary processes, called phases:

  • Phase 1:  liver uses enzymes to break down toxins, neutralising them into less harmful compounds.
  • Phase 2: the liver then transforms these compounds into water-soluble compounds that can be eliminated through urine.

Sulforaphane, a potent compound in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, plays a key role in enhancing Phase 2 detoxification. Studies indicate that increasing sulforaphane intake—through diet or supplements—can support the liver in processing and eliminating microplastic-related toxins. Known commonly as “broccoli extract,” sulforaphane is available in certain supplements. Our favourite is

3.    Fibre for microplastic excretion

Dietary fibre binds lipophilic (fat-loving) molecules, like bisphenol A (BPA) and bisphenol S (BPS), aiding their removal through the digestive tract. A high-fibre diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains help bind and eliminate microplastic-associated toxins. According to a study by Wang et al., fibre can significantly mitigate microplastics impact on the gut, thereby reducing their ability to be absorbed by our body.

4.    Sweat it out

Exercise that gets you sweating may support detoxification, especially for certain plastic-related toxins. Recent research even suggests that sweating can help eliminate BPA through the skin.   Infrared saunas or a good workout could help with eliminating toxins, but more research is needed to determine how effective sweating is for clearing microplastics.

Stay Updated on New Findings

Science is still unpacking the full impact of microplastics on health. While dietary choices and lifestyle adjustments may help, no approach can guarantee total detox. However, these steps can lower your risk and potentially support the body’s ability to manage these particles.

Microplastics are an unavoidable part of modern life, but they don’t have to dictate our health. With simple lifestyle adjustments—like choosing filtered water, eating more fibre, and supporting liver detox pathways—you can reduce your exposure and support your body’s natural defences.

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