Invisible Microplastics Trigger Serious Health Concerns

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted May 14, 2025

We often joke about living in a plastic-covered world these days. But the reality is far more concerning than most realize.

Tiny plastic particles—or microplastics—have infiltrated nearly every corner of our environment, from the deepest ocean trenches to the air we breathe.

And now, alarming research reveals these microscopic menaces aren’t just polluting our planet—they’re infiltrating our bodies and triggering serious health problems.

Let’s examine this growing health threat…

Microplastics—tiny plastic fragments less than 5 millimeters in size—are frighteningly common in our modern world. They come from the breakdown of larger plastic items like bottles, bags, and synthetic clothing.

A groundbreaking study presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session uncovered a concerning link between microplastic exposure and chronic diseases.

Researchers found that the more contact you have with these invisible particles, the higher your risk of developing serious conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke.

How do they harm our health? Scientists believe several mechanisms could be at work.

When inhaled or ingested, microplastics can trigger inflammation, particularly in the lungs and digestive tract.

Additionally, many plastics contain harmful chemicals such as phthalates, bisphenols, and flame retardants. These substances can leach out of the plastic particles and act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormone function and potentially contributing to conditions like diabetes.

You can’t entirely cut off your contact with microplastics, but you aren’t helpless. Here are some things you can do to reduce your exposure:

• Filter your drinking water using a high-quality water filter designed to remove microplastics. Reverse osmosis systems are particularly effective.
• Avoid heating food in plastic containers, which can increase the leaching of chemicals into your food.
• Choose natural fabrics like cotton, wool, and linen over synthetic materials like polyester and nylon, which shed microplastic fibers.
• Reduce your use of single-use plastics like water bottles, straws, and food packaging.
• Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter to capture airborne microplastics in your home.
• Regularly vacuum with a HEPA-filter to remove microplastic particles from carpets and upholstery.
• Choose fresh, unpackaged foods over heavily processed and packaged options whenever possible.

More research is needed to fully understand the health impacts of microplastics. However, reducing your exposure could be critical to protecting your long-term health.

P.S. Not ready to invest in a water filter for your tap? You can detox your drinking water with this microplastic purging trick.

Source:

Rahul Ponnana, “Microplastic Concentration, Social, and Environmental Features and Their Association with Chronic Disease Prevalence: An Analysis Across U.S. Census Tracts,” American College of Cardiology, Meeting: American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session. Sunday, March 30, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. CT / 14:00 UTC in Moderated Poster Theater 2.

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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