Microplastics: An invisible enemy in your body
A recent article by The Guardian about a study by the National Institutes of Health shows that microplastics are infiltrating not only the environment, but also the body in worrying ways. The study found that, on average, about 0.5% of brain tissue is plastic. Microplastics are now found in almost all vital organs of the body. This discovery shows how seriously plastic pollution affects the body and health and highlights the urgent need to address this problem worldwide. The brain is described in the study as “one of the most plastic-contaminated tissues sampled to date.”
Microplastics in your brain: The problem and danger
Microplastics, tiny plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, are everywhere in the environment - from the air we breathe to the food we eat. New research has shown that these particles are now infiltrating the brain as well. This problem is not just limited to the brain; microplastics are found in almost every major organ, such as the lungs, liver and kidneys.
The presence of microplastics in the brain and other organs is of concern because the long-term health effects are still unknown. Microplastics can potentially lead to inflammation, cell damage and other health problems such as cardiovascular disease and reduced fertility. The risks are compounded by the harmful chemicals added to plastic that enter our bodies along with microplastics.
Here's how you can help against microplastics: Reduce plastic pollution
Everyone can contribute to reducing plastic pollution. Here are some ways you can help:
• Avoid single-use plastic: Try to avoid products that are only used once, such as plastic bottles and cutlery. Choose products that come in sustainable or reusable packaging, such as a Dopper bottle for water.
• B Corps products without microplastics
B Corporations meet high social and environmental standards. By purchasing B Corps products and services, you are supporting companies committed to sustainability and reducing plastic use. Examples of B Corps that actively contribute to reducing plastic pollution are:
- Smyle, Brighter smyles, Cleaner Planet. Oral care completely plastic-free and without microplastics
- Yoni, No perfume, plastic or synthetics. But 100% organic cotton tampons, pads, pantyliners. Plastic-free menstrual products, pantyliners and tampons you can buy from Yoni.
- Greentom, Greentom products are made from recycled plastic and are PBA, phthalates or PVC and parabens free
- The Good Roll, 100% tree-friendly and sustainable toilet paper. The Good Roll is made from 100% European recycled paper, with no chlorine, dyes or fragrances. The toilet paper and packaging is 100% plastic free.
- Naïf Skin Care, plastic-free personal care and baby care products. Naïg believes in a world where only the best ingredients are used for baby's skin and where microplastics cannot be found in a baby bath or care routine.
- Seepje, wash your hair, body and laundry without unnecessary fossil ingredients and without microplastics.
• Choose sustainable options: In addition to using reusable bottles, you can also make other sustainable choices, such as reusable shopping bags and biodegradable products. Check out sustainable stores such as Dille & Kamille for more sustainable options.
• Reduce your carbon footprint: Consciously consuming and producing less waste helps reduce the demand for plastic products. Avoid plastic packaging and choose alternatives such as beeswax wraps from Bee's Wrap.
• Participate in cleanups: Participate in local cleanups to remove plastic waste from natural areas, beaches and parks. Organizations such as the Plastic Whale Foundation organize such initiatives to directly address plastic pollution and raise awareness. You can also easily organize a clean-up yourself; all you need is a trash bag and a trash grabber.
Small actions, big impact: make sustainable choices
The presence of microplastics in the brain is a serious warning about the need to address plastic pollution worldwide. This discovery highlights the importance of reducing plastic consumption and living more consciously.
By choosing reusable products, such as a Dopper bottle instead of disposable bottles, and by supporting B Corps committed to sustainability, we can directly contribute to reducing plastic waste. Supporting companies with high social and environmental standards helps to make a greater impact on the environment.
In addition, reducing one's carbon footprint is crucial. This can be done by making sustainable choices, such as using reusable shopping bags, choosing biodegradable products and buying less plastic packaging.
Every small step counts in the fight against plastic pollution. By working together and changing our habits, we can contribute to a cleaner and healthier planet. Together we can make a difference and ensure a more sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.
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