As various studies have already demonstrated, larger and large amounts of microplastics accumulate in the human body. The tension in the brain is particularly high. “Microplastics are omnipresent in the food we eat, in the water we drink, and in the air we breathe”, three Canadian researchers write in a recent evaluation of the latest results and show how the intake of small particles can be drastically reduced.
The drastic increase in the plastic concentration in the brain within just eight years is extremely disturbing, said the most important author of the commentary, Nicholas Fabiano from the University of Ottawa. Small particles in particular were discovered in the brain, of less than 0.2 micrometer in size. They mainly consisted of polyethylene, which is located in countless everyday objects. Because of their small size you can overcome the so-called blood brain barrier.
The effects are still unclear. Particles between one micrometer (0.001 millimeter) and five millimeters are considered microplastics. Nanoplastic particles are smaller.
Plastic bottles must be avoided
Everyone can reduce their recognition from Nano and Microplastics, explain Fabiano and his colleagues. For example, if a person has only made his water needs of plastic bottles, he can take more than 20 times as many particles as someone who uses tap water only, the researchers write to an earlier study. Water made from glass bottles also contains more plastic particles than tap water, while researchers write in an analysis of 21 studies. This can be caused by filling processes, among other things.
Plastic tea bag as a further source
Another source for micro and nanoplastic is plastic tea bags. Leaving a plastic tired bag at 95 degrees can release significant quantities of the researcher’s remark. It is therefore better to avoid such tea bags.
Moreover, the exemption from plastic containers can be effective for food. “Heating dishes in plastic containers- especially in the microwave- can release large quantities of micro and nanoplastic,” warned commentator Brandon Luu of the University of Toronto. According to the researchers, even long -term storage at room temperature or in the refrigerator leads to a significant release of particles. “The use of glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic is a small but important measure to minimize exposure,” said Luu.
Industrially processed foods more stressed
Food in tin can contain substances that come from plastics, for example bisphenol-a (BPA). In a study, test subjects received dosing soups for five days in a row, after which their BPA values climbed many times in the urine. The authors of the comment also emphasize: “The duration of this BPA top values and their health effects are, however, unclear and require further research.” Another American study has shown that highly processed food contained considerably more microplastics than processed minimally.
Too few studies into the effects on the body
There are indications for cell culture and animal experiments that the plastic particles of inflammation, immune disorders, a changed metabolism, can promote an abnormal organ development and cancer, write the commentators. Until now, the data situation is poor. Large studies with people are needed to determine the possible danger of microplastics for health. At the same time, studies should better evaluate the effectiveness of different reduction strategies.
Source: Krone
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