Plastic Posing ALARMING New Threat
Concerns are growing over microplastics.
Some of these tiny particles are created to be small, like glitter, the microbeads used in cosmetic products, and the tiny fibers used to make fabrics (like fleece).
Others are made when larger pieces of plastic break down into smaller pieces.
And it turns out microplastics aren’t just polluting our environment. New research reveals these invaders could also be sabotaging our HEALTH.
And one organ in particular may be affected in an alarming way.
Microplastic pollution is already widespread in the environment. In fact, particles smaller than 5 millimeters across have been found in food, soil, water, and the air.
That means it isn’t just animals that are in danger. HUMANS are consuming and absorbing them, too.
And now scientists warn that these microscopic invaders could pose a serious threat to our health.
New research published in the International Journal of Molecular Science reveals microplastics can reach the brain. And this has scientists understandably alarmed.
You see, your brain is protected by something called the blood-brain barrier. It’s made of specialized cells that act as guards to shield your brain.
But it turns out microplastics can sneak past those guards, triggering inflammation and cellular damage.
Researchers put a small amount of the tiny particles into the drinking water of lab mice. And they found that the microscopic plastics accumulated in many of the animal’s organs.
But they were shocked to see they ALSO managed to breach the blood-brain barrier, making it into the BRAINS of the mice.
Even worse, the mice quickly began showing behaviors that mimic human dementia.
This isn’t the first time we’ve seen concerning health effects associated with the tiny particles. Earlier studies have linked behavioral changes in animals to microplastics, indicating they could ALSO have an impact on hormones and brain function.
Scientists are growing increasingly concerned about how long-term exposure to these plastics in our environment may impact our brains and overall health.
Unfortunately, since microplastics are already in the air, dust, water, and food, they can’t be avoided entirely.
But you CAN reduce your exposure…
- Don’t heat foods in anything made from plastic, including microwaving foods in plastic food containers, boiling foods in plastic bags (like instant rice), or using plastic liners for slow cookers.
- Replace plastic cooking and eating utensils when possible, and handwash plastic containers and utensils instead of exposing them to the dishwasher’s heat.
- Skip bottled water and opt for tap water filtered with a reverse osmosis filter instead.
- Switch to natural fiber products, including clothing, bedding, and towels.
- If you’re a tea drinker, make sure you’re using tea bags made from natural fibers or loose tea with a glass or metal strainer.
Don’t obsess over microplastics. But don’t ignore them either. Taking small steps like these could drastically reduce your exposure and risk.
P.S. H2O WARNING: Before your next sip, read THIS!
Source:
“Acute Exposure to Microplastics Induced Changes in Behavior and Inflammation in Young and Old Mice.” Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24, 12308. doi. org /10.3390/ijms241512308
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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