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.
View More Free Articles
Mailbag: Your Green Light Guide to Healthy Eating
“As everyone is so quick to inform us what not to eat, would you kindly inform us of what we can eat? It seems like everything has been condemned at this point.” —Hungry Hi Hungry, I understand why you’re frustrated. With all the warnings, it can feel like EVERY food in the grocery store is...
“Jack Frost” Method Supercharges Your Workouts
As the mercury drops, we instinctively want to huddle inside under a warm blanket. But before you resign yourself to a season of hibernation and comfort foods, consider this… Braving the cold could be your secret weapon for better health. While safety should always come first, of course (never venture out on icy streets), there...
Common Vitamin Protects Your Pancreas
You’ve probably heard about vitamin B12 for its role in keeping your blood and nerves healthy. But could it also be the key to protecting your pancreas? New research from Sichuan University in China suggests that this unassuming B vitamin might have even more benefits than we thought—helping to reduce the risk of acute pancreatitis,...
The Fiber That May Mimic Ozempic?
Recently, Ozempic has gained fame as a weight loss drug that works by controlling blood sugar and reducing cravings. But what if a natural solution could offer similar benefits—without the potential side effects or costs associated with GLP-1 medications? According to new research, a type of dietary fiber could help with weight loss and blood...
The TRUE Cost of Daytime Sleepiness
Are you struggling to keep your eyes open as you read this? If so, you’re not alone. A shocking new survey reveals that America is in the grip of a full-blown sleep crisis. And it’s costing us more than just a few yawns… The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) dropped a bombshell on our...
Giving Thanks and Sharing Traditions
Happy Thanksgiving! As we celebrate this season of gratitude, I want to take a moment to thank you for being part of our community at Living Well Daily. I hope your Thanksgiving is filled with warmth, joy, and cherished moments with family and friends. Holiday meals like today don’t just fill our bellies. They feed...
My Thanksgiving Cheat Sheet: Stay Healthy & Satisfied
Thanksgiving is nearly here, and while it’s a time to gather with loved ones and enjoy delicious food, we all know the feeling that often follows—a little too much of everything. From blood sugar spikes and bloating to the dreaded holiday weight gain, it’s easy to feel a bit overwhelmed by all the indulgent options....
Natural Restless Legs Solutions Deliver Better Sleep
“Is there anything to help restless legs so I can sleep?” – RestLESS Hi RestLess, Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a chronic neurological disorder. It triggers an uncontrollable urge to move your legs. Folks who battle RLS often describe it as an aching, tingly, or crawling sensation. Symptoms frequently worsen when you’re resting. RLS can...
The Dieting Mistake That’s Harming Your Health
You don’t need me to tell you that being overweight has health consequences. But if you jump from one diet to another in pursuit of weight loss… well, you should rethink that tactic. A new report suggests that this common practice—yo-yo dieting—could harm your health. In fact, it could be doing FAR more harm than...
“Time Travel” Technique Predicts Dementia 20 Years EARLY?
Did you ever watch those old time-travel movies when you were a kid? I sure did—and I loved to daydream about being able to see the future. Well, now a new international study may have just uncovered a way for us to experience something similar. It’s probably not quite how you imagined it as a...