Tiny Toxic Threat Lurking in the Air You Breathe

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted December 28, 2024

Imagine taking a deep breath of fresh air, only to realize that—along with oxygen—you’re also inhaling tiny plastic particles.

It may sound like a scene from a science-fiction film, but new research reveals microplastics have found their way into the very air we breathe—and they may pose serious risks to your health.

Recently, scientists discovered that even wild dolphins are exhaling microplastic fibers. This startling finding underscores just how widespread plastic pollution has become.

But it’s not just dolphins at risk—we are breathing in microplastics, too, and the consequences could be devastating.

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that are less than 5 millimeters in size. They come from the breakdown of larger plastic items like bottles, bags, and clothing.

Over time, plastics degrade into these tiny fragments, which then make their way into our environment—on land, in the water, and even in the air.

While many of us are familiar with the problem of microplastics in our oceans, the fact that we’re inhaling them through the air is less well-known. And that’s exactly what researchers found when studying dolphins in Florida and Louisiana.

These dolphins were exhaling plastic fibers similar to those found in human lungs.

Studies show that inhaling microplastics can lead to a range of health problems, including:

• Lung inflammation: When inhaled, microplastics can irritate lung tissues, leading to chronic inflammation. Over time, this can result in tissue damage, excess mucus production, and conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia.
• Scarring and lung damage: Microplastics can cause scarring in the lungs, similar to what’s seen in people with long-term exposure to dust or other pollutants. This scarring reduces lung function over time.
• Increased cancer risk: Studies suggest that long-term exposure to inhaled plastics could raise the risk of developing lung cancer. While more research is needed, this is a concern given how pervasive plastic pollution is.

It’s easy to assume that microplastics are only a problem for marine life, but the truth is they’re everywhere. You’re most likely being exposed to microplastics in your daily life through:

• Air: Microplastics can become airborne through wind or the action of ocean waves releasing them into the atmosphere. Once in the air, they can travel long distances and reach urban and rural areas.
• Food and water: Microplastics are found in various foods and beverages, including bottled water, seafood, and salt.
• Household dust: Plastics are present in everyday items like synthetic clothing, carpets, and packaging materials. As these items degrade, tiny plastic fibers are released into your home’s air, which you breathe in.

The idea of inhaling tiny plastic particles may feel overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to reduce your exposure:

Use an air purifier: A high-quality air purifier with a HEPA filter can help trap airborne microplastics and other pollutants, reducing the amount you breathe in at home.

Ventilate your home: Keeping windows open and using exhaust fans can help reduce the concentration of indoor pollutants, including microplastics.

Choose natural fabrics: Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon shed plastic fibers over time. Opt for natural materials like cotton, wool, and linen whenever possible.

Filter your drinking water: Install a water filter designed to capture microplastics, especially if you drink bottled water or live in an area with known water pollution.

Avoid single-use plastics: Reducing plastic consumption can help lower the demand for plastic production, reducing plastic pollution over time. Simple swaps like reusable bags, bottles, and containers can make a difference.

Microplastics have infiltrated nearly every aspect of our environment—from the oceans to the air we breathe. While research on their long-term health effects is ongoing, the evidence we have so far is enough to raise serious concerns.

Limiting your exposure to microplastics can help protect your health and reduce your contribution to this growing problem.

P.S. Are microplastics invading your gut barrier?

Source:

Dziobak, M. K., Fahlman, A., Wells, R. S., Takeshita, R., Smith, C., Gray, A., Weinstein, J., & Hart, L. B. (2024). First evidence of microplastic inhalation among free-ranging small cetaceans. PLOS ONE, 19(10), e0309377.

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

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