What Are Microplastics & Why Are They Bad For You?

Almost everything we use and see daily is derived from plastic (unless you’ve made the switch to plastic alternatives). Unless you’ve been in the dark, you’re likely aware of the recent microplastic craze on social media or in news articles, and are wondering what they are and why they seem so harmful. 

In this guide, we’re informing you on all your need to know about these tiny plastic particles and completely answering the question: “are microplastics bad for you?” 

What Are Microplastics?

In short, microplastics are tiny plastic particles that measure less than 5 millimeters in length. Because they’re so small, you can’t see them. But, they’re basically everywhere around you. Literally, everywhere, including land, rivers, and seas. 

“Microplastics are the tiny fragments of plastic that essentially shed over time off anything made of plastics, especially things like single use water bottles, plastic bags and food wrappings,” Aidan Charron, a biologist and Director at EARTHDAY. “But all plastics shed these little fragments which are typically no bigger than a grain of rice. Often they can be ten times smaller and are then known as nano plastics. These nano plastics cannot be seen by the naked eye but that doesn't mean they are not there!”

Where Do Microplastics Come From?

How do microplastics end up in our bodies of water and land ecosystems? Where do microplastics come from in the first place? 

Akshaya Bhagavathula, an expert Epidemiology Professor at North Dakota State University told us that microplastics come from two original sources. “Primary microplastics that are intentionally manufactured small particles are found in cosmetics, industrial abrasives, and synthetic textiles,” he says. “Secondary microplastics result from the breakdown of larger plastic waste due to environmental exposure such as UV radiation, mechanical abrasion, and biological degradation.”

So basically, microplastics come from anything made from plastic that’s breaking down. Even items like clothes, furniture, and more that are made with nylon and polyester release microplastics over time. 

Sadly, because of the plastic pollution crises and landfill overflow, plastic items have made their way into our oceans and land ecosystems. Because of this, the discarded plastics have shed microplastic fibers into the atmosphere, which is why they’re now found in water, leaves, and even the air we breathe. 

How Do Microplastics Affect Humans?

So, are microplastics bad for you? In short, yes. Microplastics from traditional plastic items are worse than microplastics produced from biodegradable plant-based plastics. 

The microplastics you ingest, the higher the levels build in your body. Bhagavathula says these particles are found in human tissues, blood, and even fetal environments, which increases the impact they have on your personal health. “Evidence suggests they may cause inflammation, disrupt energy metabolism, and affect reproductive and nervous systems,” he says. “In a recent groundbreaking study researchers found that in-utero exposure to marine microplastics is linked to increased risks of low birth weight.”

“The problem with microplastics is not just the tiny little bits of plastics themselves, the other issue is that these fragments leach plastic chemicals into our bodies, chemicals like PFAS, Bisphenols, and phthalates,” says Charron. “Plastic particles and the chemicals they leach have been found in human brains, lungs, hearts, bloodstream, gut and even placentas. There is growing research that links microparticles and their toxic chemicals with cancers, heart attacks, infertility, miscarriages, Alzheimer’s, strokes and dementia.

How to Avoid Consuming Microplastics – Is It Completely Possible?

To cut to the chase, there’s no way to completely eliminate exposure to microplastics, but you can greatly reduce your exposure. Ditching single-use plastics (think water bottles and cutlery), swapping to plant-based plastics, and filtering the air are great ways to reduce the amount of microplastics you come into contact with. Another way is to choose biodegradable plant-based plastics any time you can. 

Biodegradable plastics aren’t completely microplastic free, but the health and environmental threat isn’t as potent. Since microplastics are found in basically anything and everything, they’re still found in these types of plastic alternatives. 

But, the difference is that biodegradable plastics contain biodegradable polymers that have been found to not break down into permanent secondary microplastics. This makes them safer to use personally and for the environment. 

Reduce Your Microplastic Consumption Today

While the recent rise in awareness of microplastics can feel overwhelming and scary, it’s good to know to try and reduce your exposure. Since microplastics are completely unavoidable, it’s best to be proactive in limiting the count in your body by switching to healthier alternatives not just for your personal health, but for the environment as well. 

Plastic containers are one of the leading culprits for releasing microplastics. Ditching traditional plastic containers for plant-based alternatives is the only solution for reducing the amount of microplastics that wind up in your body.

Start filling your kitchen cabinets with plant-based kitchenware today. Our line of baking bundles, countertop compost bins, and food prep sets are made with Astrik, a 100% plant-based plastic biodegradable material. 

We exist to help you live more sustainably and make the world a better place. If you’re ready to reduce your carbon footprint and improve your health, then shop our collection of plant-based kitchenware today!