Micro-Plastics – Unseen Threats to Human Health
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that are less than 5 millimeters in size and can come from a variety of sources, including plastic bags, bottles, and microbeads in personal care products. These small particles can enter the environment through wastewater treatment plants, storm drains, and agricultural runoff, and can persist in the environment for hundreds of years.
Once in the environment, microplastics can be ingested by a wide range of organisms, from tiny zooplankton to large fish and mammals. Ingesting microplastics can cause physical harm, such as blockages in the digestive tract, and can also leach chemicals into the body that can cause toxicity. Additionally, microplastics can accumulate in the tissues of organisms, providing a route for toxic chemicals to bioaccumulate and potentially causing long-term health effects.
Human beings are also exposed to microplastics through their diet, with studies showing that microplastics have been found in drinking water, seafood, and even in the air we breathe. Inhaling microplastics can cause respiratory problems, and ingesting them can lead to gastrointestinal issues and potentially cancer.
Dr. MIchael Wald, DC, Board Certified Nutritionist, Dietitian
