Microplastics, tiny plastic particles, are infiltrating our daily lives and entering the human body through various exposure paths. They are present in food, water, air, and even personal care products, posing potential health risks. Understanding how these particles enter the body is the first step toward minimizing exposure.
What Are Microplastics?
Microplastics are plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in diameter, originating from broken-down larger plastics or intentionally manufactured microbeads found in cosmetics and cleaning products. They are found in oceans, rivers, soil, and even the air we breathe.
Q: Where do microplastics come from?
A: Microplastics originate from the breakdown of plastic pollution, synthetic fibers from clothing, and microbeads in cosmetics. Everyday items such as plastic containers, water bottles, and textiles contribute to their spread.
Recommended Reading: “Plastic Free: How I Kicked the Plastic Habit and How You Can Too” by Beth Terry
5 Ways Microplastics Enter the Human Body
Through Diet
Q: How do microplastics enter the body through food?
A: Microplastics are present in packaged foods, seafood, and processed products. Heating plastic containers can release tiny plastic particles into food.
- Seafood contamination: Marine animals ingest microplastics, which accumulate in their bodies and are then consumed by humans.
- Plastic-packaged food: When food is stored or microwaved in plastic, small plastic fragments can leach into it.
- Processed foods: Items that undergo multiple processing and packaging steps contain more microplastics than whole foods.
Prevention Tip: Opt for fresh, unpackaged foods and use glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic.
Recommended Reading: “Slow Death by Rubber Duck: The Secret Danger of Everyday Things” by Rick Smith and Bruce Lourie
Via Drinking Water
Q: Does drinking water contain microplastics?
A: Yes. Both bottled and tap water contain microplastics, with bottled water often having higher levels due to plastic degradation.
- Studies show that bottled water contains twice as many microplastics as tap water.
- Plastic bottles shed microplastics over time, contaminating the water inside.
Prevention Tip: Use high-quality water filters, such as activated carbon or reverse osmosis systems, and opt for reusable glass or metal bottles.
Through Inhalation
Q: Can you inhale microplastics?
A: Yes. Microplastics are present in household dust, synthetic fabrics, and outdoor air pollution.
- Indoor dust contains plastic particles from furniture, carpets, and electronics.
- Synthetic clothing fibers shed microplastics during wear and washing.
- Outdoor pollution from industrial activities and vehicle emissions contributes to airborne plastic exposure.
Prevention Tip: Improve indoor air quality with HEPA filters, vacuum regularly, and choose natural fiber clothing over synthetic alternatives.
Recommended Reading: “Our Stolen Future” by Theo Colborn, Dianne Dumanoski, and John Peterson Myers
Via Personal Care Products
Q: Do personal care products contain microplastics?
A: Yes. Many exfoliants, toothpaste, and cosmetics contain microbeads, tiny plastic particles used for texture.
- Microbeads in skincare and toothpaste enter the body through skin absorption or accidental ingestion.
- Shampoos and body washes with microplastics contribute to long-term exposure.
Prevention Tip: Avoid products containing polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) and switch to natural skincare alternatives.
Through Synthetic Clothing & Household Items
Q: Do synthetic fabrics release microplastics?
A: Yes. Clothing made from polyester, nylon, and acrylic sheds microfibers when washed or worn, which can be inhaled or ingested.
- Laundry water from synthetic clothes contains millions of microplastic fibers.
- Household upholstery and carpets also release plastic dust over time.
Prevention Tip: Use washing bags or microfiber filters when laundering synthetic clothes and opt for natural materials like cotton or wool.
Health Risks of Microplastics
Q: Are microplastics harmful to health?
A: Research suggests that microplastics may:
- Disrupt hormone function (endocrine disruptors like BPA & phthalates)
- Cause chronic inflammation due to plastic buildup in organs
- Impact fertility by affecting reproductive health
- Increase cancer risk due to long-term exposure to toxic chemicals
What You Can Do: Reduce exposure by filtering water, avoiding plastic packaging, and choosing natural products.
Recommended Reading on Microplastics & Environmental Impact
Plastic: A Toxic Love Story” by Susan Freinkel
“The World Without Us” by Alan Weisman
“The Story of Stuff: The Impact of Overconsumption on the Planet, Our Communities, and Our Health-And How We Can Make It Better” by Annie Leonard
Final Thoughts
Microplastics are everywhere, but small lifestyle changes can significantly reduce exposure. By being mindful of what we consume, wear, and breathe, we can protect our health while advocating for a cleaner environment.
Next Steps: 
Filter drinking water for microplastics. Choose glass, metal, or biodegradable alternatives to plastic. Support policies that reduce plastic pollution. Stay informed and share awareness on microplastic exposure.
