Microplastics in Our Brains: Should We Be Worried?

Plastics have occupied a significant portion of our lives. Clothes, mobile phones, cars, food containers, and water bottles are all made from plastic. This has led to the accumulation of microplastics in abundance in the environment which is affecting our brains. 

Let’s find out what microplastic is and how it affects our brains. 

What are Microplastics?

We all know that plastics are non-biodegradable. However, they are broken down into smaller particles called microplastics. They are sometimes much smaller than even five millimetres. 

Interestingly, studies have indicated the presence of microplastics in water and food. This means we are regularly exposed to their risks of accumulation. 

It is an alarming health concern from chronic exposure to microplastics in food. 

How Does Microplastics Reach Your Brain?

Microplastics in food and water are the typical sources of their entry into human bodies. The first thing they target inside your body is your gut microbiome. This triggers gut inflammation, affecting your entire body via your immune system and gut-brain complex. 

There are microplastics present in the air, too. You breathe them, and they find their way into your lungs. They further pass via your bloodstream to various body organs. 

To get to your brain tissues, they first cross the blood-brain barrier. This intricate cellular layer protects your brain from different things carried by your blood. 

Is the Presence of Microplastics in the Human Brain A Health Concern?

There is no thorough evidence of how microplastics affect your brain. Some laboratory experiments have, however, demonstrated strong coordination between microplastics in the brain and brain inflammation, cell damage, and changes in brain structure. 

Besides their harmful effects, microplastics may even carry potential environmental toxins or bacteria. At times, microplastics leach out from several plastic chemicals and are known to contain hormone-disrupting chemicals called BPAs. 

However, it is still quite challenging to understand the impacts of microplastics on your brain. Besides their small size, they are made from several chemical components. The surrounding environment, your digestive processes, and even weather them. 

Can You Prevent the Entry of Microplastics in Your Brain?

Yes, you can do so by limiting your exposure to it. Here are some ways to do it - 

1. Say No To Single Use Plastics 

Avoiding single-use plastics and switching to recyclable bottles and coffee mugs is one of the most significant steps in limiting microplastic exposure. 

2. Avoid Cooking in Plastic Containers 

Avoid using plastic containers in your microwave. 

3. Use Metal or Glass Kitchen Items 

Mixing, cutting, and storing should be done in either metal or glass kitchen containers or items. 

4. Prefer Natural Fibers 

Avoid synthetic nylon, acrylic, and polyester and switch to natural fibres. 

5. Filter Your Drinking Water

Microplastics in water can easily flow down your drinking water supply and make a way to your home. Filter your source of drinking water at home to keep a safe distance from microplastics in water. 

6. Reduce Your Dust Exposure 

An air and vacuum cleaner is best for reducing or lowering your exposure to dust particles. 

7. Consume Less of Your Meat 

Limiting your meat consumption can be helpful. The processed ones, especially, are more prone to microplastic contamination. 

8. Eat Healthier 

Eating healthy starts with fresh fruits and vegetables. These are best for improving your resilience to toxic chemical exposure. 

Takeaway 

Microplastics in food and water are the primary sources from where they enter our body and subsequently to our brain via the gut-brain complex. As these are widespread in your environment, keeping them away is difficult but possible. This is just the start of understanding how these microplastics affect your brain. Until we have more evidence, what we can do is ideally reduce its exposure.