{"id":13375,"date":"2020-11-23T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2020-11-23T08:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/how-microplastics-are-impacting-pollution-and-health-2\/"},"modified":"2023-06-02T02:01:37","modified_gmt":"2023-06-02T09:01:37","slug":"how-microplastics-are-impacting-pollution-and-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/how-microplastics-are-impacting-pollution-and-health\/","title":{"rendered":"How Microplastics are Impacting Pollution And Health"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Microplastic<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">s<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Pollution\u00a0And\u00a0Health\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">You likely<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0use plastic every day<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Just\u00a0take a look\u00a0around\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">you<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0right now and you\u2019ll likely see a dozen plastic things<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: a\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">plastic wrapper for your protein bar, plastic frames for your glasses and case for your cell phone are just a few examples.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Daily we use p<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">lastic bottles, packaging, furniture, carpets, toothbrushes, paint, clothing<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0and\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">the list goes on.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Plastics have only been around for a hundred years and only in such large amounts since after World War 2. It takes so long for plastic (hundreds of years) to biodegrade that <strong>all plastic that has ever produced still exists<\/strong>. I find this staggering!<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Of course\u00a0plastic has allowed for innovation in medicine, transportation\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">and<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0other industries, but it also has taken a toll on the environment. Much of the plastic produced is for single or short-term use. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Most plastic doesn\u2019t get recycled\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">(only about 9 percent\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">does)\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">and ends up in landfills, by the side of the road or in the ocean. Not only is it unsightly, but plastic pollution is a<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">lso a<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0huge global issue.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><strong>Plastic pollution has increased by 8.7%<\/strong> each year since the 1960s and Big Plastic is a\u00a0$600 billion dollar\u00a0global industry. We are learning more about the impacts o<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">f plastics and microplastics\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">not only<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0on<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0the environment, but\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">on\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">human health as well. The two go hand in hand.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>In this article, you will learn more about:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What microplastics are<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Where microplastics are found\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">How they impact human health<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">And,\u00a0what you can do about it<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What\u00a0<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Are Microplastics?<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Since plastic doesn\u2019t readily break down in the environment, larger plastics simply break down into smaller and smaller pieces over time.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">According to the\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/oceanservice.noaa.gov\/facts\/microplastics.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, NOAA, microplastics include all types of plastics in pieces smaller than 5 millimeters, or about the size of a grain of rice. Microscopic plastic particles are called\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">nanoplastics<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">We\u2019ve known about\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/reduce-toxicity\/microplastics-go-mainstream\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">microplastics<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0since articles were published in the 1970s about tiny pieces of plastics found in coastal waters, but the term microplastic is\u00a0fairly recent. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It is now estimated that 4.8 to 12.7 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean each year, out of the more than 275 million metric tons produced\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">annually<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. These figures are based on 2010 data from 192 coastal countries.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Once plastic is in the ocean<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0or environment<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, it breaks down into smaller particles with sunlight and\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">movement<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. A conservative estimate is that<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">microplastics in the ocean<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">total at least<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a05.25 trillion\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">particles.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Although, some microplastics are intentionally produced such as the microbeads, found in body washes and toothpastes. Prior to their US ban in 2015, it was estimated that 8 billion microbeads entered the environment each day, and they are still there.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">M<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">icroplastics are found around the globe in the water, air, soil and animals, even in very remote areas.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This is the hidden cost of plastic production and use.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Where\u00a0<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Are Microplastics Found?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In short, <strong>microplastics are everywhere.<\/strong> We are exposed directly through the air we breathe and the water we\u00a0drink\u00a0and indirectly as plastic particles and chemicals associated with plastic accumulate through the food chain.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0Here are some of the most common places you\u2019ll\u00a0get exposed to\u00a0microplastics:\u00a0<\/strong><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Water<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Municipal water treatment plants weren\u2019t designed for microplastic removal and although this issue is talked about and technology is being developed, it isn\u2019t mandated. Currently, up to 93 percent of the water in the US is contaminated with microplastics. Bottled water is no exception\u00a0and also\u00a0a large source of microplastic exposure.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Microplastics in water<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0are also transferred to other products, such as beer.<\/span> Plastic isn\u2019t the only source of pollution in the water supply, I\u2019ve recently written about\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/blog\/algal-blooms-the-environment-and-your-health\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">algal blooms<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0affecting our health.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Salt<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. With\u00a0all of\u00a0the plastic pollution in the ocean it makes sense that that would find its way into the salt that we get from the ocean. In a study in China, plastic particles were found in sea salts, lake salts and rock salts, with sea salts being the highest.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Likely the largest source of salt in the diet is from eating packaged, processed food.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Fish and shellfish<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. Although microplastics are likely to be found in many, if not most, species, fish and shellfish are particularly vulnerable as plastic accumulates in their bodies through the food chain. In addition<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0plastic particles are often the same size as the food, such as plankton, that many small fish eat.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Microplastics Effects<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">How Do Microplastics Impact Human Health?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">All in all<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0humans eat, drin<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">k\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">and breathe more\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">an estimated\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">74,000 to 121<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">000 particles\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">of plastic\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">per year<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. Although we don\u2019t fully understand the implications of this plastic exposure and there are lots of holes in the research, there is cause for alarm.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><strong>Microplastics are used in medicine<\/strong> to deliver pharmaceuticals into human tissue so we know some about how the<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">y<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0absorb into the body, move through the bloodstream and lymph system and accumulate in fat tissue\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">and<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0organs. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In those who have plastic put into their body, such as a knee replacement, we know that the plastics wear down<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0releasing microplastics into circulation.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In addition to getting plastic in the body through eating and drinking, we know that\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">nanoplastics<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0can be inhaled and enter the lungs. One study found plastic in 83 percent of lung tissues examined.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Interesting research has been done on <strong>microplastic exposure in zebrafish.<\/strong> Studies show alterations to the\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/reduce-toxicity\/pucker-up-can-kissing-change-your-microbiome\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">microbiome<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, including changes to diversity and abundance of beneficial\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">bacteria. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The zebrafish showed changes in metabolic function, <strong>decreased glutathione<\/strong><\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, increased oxidative stress and inflammation.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Humans aren\u2019t zebrafish, but I wouldn\u2019t be surprised to see similar effects in us.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In addition to the exposure of the plastic itself, plastic contains toxic ingredients, such as\u00a0<\/span><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/reduce-toxicity\/5-ways-to-avoid-bpa-exposure-from-your-paper-receipts\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">BPA<\/a><\/strong><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, that act as estrogen mimic<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">ker<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">s, affect metabolism and reproduction and alter the immune system. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Microplastics can also\u00a0<i>absorb<\/i><\/strong><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><strong>\u00a0other toxins from the environment.<\/strong> <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Through microplastic exposure, you might become<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0exposed to these chemicals or classes of chemicals:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><strong>POPs<\/strong> \u2013 persistent organic pollutants<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0including dioxin, PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and other man-made chemicals or waste products of industry that have toxic effects for humans and don\u2019t break down in the environment<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><strong>PBDEs<\/strong> \u2013\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">p<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">olybrominated diphenyl ethers<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, or flame retardant chemicals found in furniture, clothing and children\u2019s products<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><strong>PAHs<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u2013<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">p<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">olycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">are naturally occurring toxins that form when\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">coal,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0oil, gas, wood and other products are burned. PAHs attach to small particles in the air, such as microplastics.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/blog\/pfas-health-risks-and-how-to-protect-yourself\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\"><strong>PFAS \u2013 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances<\/strong><\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0found in waterproof clothing, carpeting, food packaging and cookware<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0are persistent in the environment<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0and highly toxic to humans<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><strong>Phthalates<\/strong> \u2013\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">and other<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0endocrine disrupting chemicals are added to plastics to make the plastic softer. They are also\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">frequently\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">found in personal care products.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Although we don\u2019t have a lot of data on the specific ways the microplastics are impacting humans, we know that the scope of the issue is profound and do have data linking the chemicals listed here to negative consequences to the environment and human health. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>The cumulative effect\u00a0<\/strong><span data-contrast=\"auto\">of<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0all\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">toxin\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">exposures is likely staggering. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">On an individual level, I do see toxin exposure affecting a larger percentage of my patient population, causing overwhelm in the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/blog\/the-importance-of-detoxification-and-how-to-detox\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">body\u2019s detoxification systems<\/a><\/strong><\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">and a host of symptoms and disease<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Action Steps &#8211;\u00a0<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">How\u00a0To\u00a0Avoid Microplastics<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As a former engineer and medical doctor, I\u2019m very data driven. However, I\u2019m not going to wait for\u00a0all of\u00a0the data to be in in order to say that microplastics are significantly impacting humans. With so much plastic already in the environment (it will certainly outlive our children), I think it is important to stop plastic production and consumption in significant ways in order to prevent further effects.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Here are some things you can do:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\"><strong>1.<\/strong> <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Filter your water<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. Although most municipalities aren\u2019t filtering water after treating it to the extent required\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">to remove<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0microplastics, many home filtration systems can. Drinking filtered water at home is preferable to bottled water for this reason. Quality water filters remove heavy metals,\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/blog\/pfas-health-risks-and-how-to-protect-yourself\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">PFAS<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0and other contaminants as well. You can read more about my water filter suggestions\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/reduce-toxicity\/how-to-find-the-water-filtration-system-that-works-best-for-you\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true,&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\"><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true,&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\"><strong>2.<\/strong> <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Reduce your plastic use<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. While overall reduction in plastics is important on both the individual and global scales, be sure to pay special attention to the plastics that\u00a0come in contact with\u00a0food. I recommend using your own reusable produce bags, buying food in bulk or in paper packaging as much as possible and using glass for food storage. Never heat foods or drink hot liquids from plastic.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true,&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">3. Reduce your toxin exposures<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0elsewhere in your life in order to reduce your total body burden of chemicals. This might mean\u00a0taking a look\u00a0at your personal care products, upgrading your cleaning products, choosing organic foods, avoiding Teflon cookware and more. For more on this topic, check out my free guide:\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/free-guides\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">How to Be Safe in a Toxic World.<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true,&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">4. Rethink your wardrobe<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. A huge source of microplastics is from the breakdown of synthetic fibers, such as polyester (which is plastic!) from clothing. As you wash and dry your clothes, small particles enter the water and air. Choosing natural fiber clothes or washing your clothes with a filter or bag designed to capture microplastics helps.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true,&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">5. Get involved.<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0Join communities across the globe to clean up waterways and beaches from plastic pollution. Or start a movement in your area.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true,&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">6. Think globally.<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0By understanding the environmental and health impacts from plastics, we can work together to support a dramatic decrease in plastic production, much of which is single use plastic. Support bans on plastic bags and plastic bottles in your area and grab your favorite reusable tote and stainless steel or glass water bottle.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">My hope is that this article helps you see the small changes that you can make to truly have a big impact. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Although you won\u2019t be able to fully eliminate all plastic exposure, you can reduce ingesting plastic \u2013 and associated chemicals \u2013 significantly by increasing your awareness and changing some daily habits. Your health will thank you.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>References\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Carpenter, E. J., Anderson, S. J., Harvey, G. R.,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Miklas<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, H. P., &amp; Peck, B. B. (1972).\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/science.sciencemag.org\/content\/178\/4062\/749.long\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Polystyrene spherules in coastal waters<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Science (New York, N.Y.)<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">178<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">(4062), 749\u2013750.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Jambeck<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, J. R., Geyer, R., Wilcox, C., Siegler, T. R., Perryman, M.,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Andrady<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, A., Narayan, R., &amp; Law, K. L. (2015).\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/science.sciencemag.org\/content\/347\/6223\/768.long\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Marine pollution. Plastic waste inputs from land into the ocean<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Science (New York, N.Y.)<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">347<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">(6223), 768\u2013771.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Smith, M., Love, D. C.,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Rochman<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, C. M., &amp; Neff, R. A. (2018).\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6132564\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Microplastics in Seafood and the Implications for Human Health<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Current environmental health reports<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">5<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">(3), 375\u2013386.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Poerio<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, T.,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Piacentini<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, E., &amp; Mazzei, R. (2019).\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6891368\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Membrane Processes for Microplastic Removal<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">24<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">(22), 4148.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Welle<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, F., &amp; Franz, R. (2018).\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/30451587\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Microplastic in bottled natural mineral water &#8211; literature review and considerations on exposure and risk assessment<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Food additives &amp; contaminants. Part A, Chemistry, analysis, control, exposure &amp; risk assessment<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">35<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">(12), 2482\u20132492.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Liebezeit<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, G., &amp;\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Liebezeit<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, E. (2014).\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/25056358\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Synthetic particles as contaminants in German beers<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Food additives &amp; contaminants. Part A, Chemistry, analysis, control, exposure &amp; risk assessment<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">31<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">(9), 1574\u20131578.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Yang, D., Shi, H., Li, L., Li, J.,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Jabeen<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, K., &amp;\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Kolandhasamy<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, P. (2015).\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/26486565\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Microplastic Pollution in Table Salts from China.<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Environmental science &amp; technology<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">49<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">(22), 13622\u201313627.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Van\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Cauwenberghe<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, L., &amp; Janssen, C. R. (2014).\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/25005888\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Microplastics in bivalves cultured for human consumption<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Environmental pollution (Barking,\u00a0<\/span><\/i><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Essex :<\/span><\/i><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a01987)<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">193<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, 65\u201370.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Barboza, L., Dick\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Vethaak<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, A.,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Lavorante<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, B.,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Lundebye<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, A. K., &amp;\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Guilhermino<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, L. (2018).\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/30041323\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Marine microplastic debris: An emerging issue for food security, food safety and human health.<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Marine pollution bulletin<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">133<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, 336\u2013348.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Cox, K. D.,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Covernton<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, G. A., Davies, H. L., Dower, J. F.,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Juanes<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, F., &amp;\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Dudas<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, S. E. (2019).\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubs.acs.org\/doi\/full\/10.1021\/acs.est.9b01517\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Human Consumption of Microplastics<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Environmental science &amp; technology<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">53<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">(12), 7068\u20137074.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Pauly, J. L.,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Stegmeier<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, S. J.,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Allaart<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, H. A., Cheney, R. T., Zhang, P. J., Mayer, A. G., &amp;\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Streck<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, R. J. (1998).\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/cebp.aacrjournals.org\/content\/7\/5\/419.long\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Inhaled cellulosic and plastic fibers found in human lung tissue<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Cancer epidemiology, biomarkers &amp;\u00a0<\/span><\/i><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">prevention :<\/span><\/i><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0a publication of the American Association for Cancer Research, cosponsored by the American Society of Preventive Oncology<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">7<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">(5), 419\u2013428.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Wan, Z., Wang, C., Zhou, J., Shen, M., Wang, X., Fu, Z., &amp;\u00a0Jin, Y. (2019).\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/30448747\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Effects of polystyrene microplastics on the composition of the microbiome and metabolism in larval zebrafish<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Chemosphere<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">217<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, 646\u2013658.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Qiao<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, R., Sheng, C., Lu, Y., Zhang, Y., Ren, H., &amp;\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Lemos<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, B. (2019).\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/30690359\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Microplastics induce intestinal inflammation, oxidative stress, and disorders of metabolome and microbiome in zebrafish.<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Science of the total environment<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">662<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, 246\u2013253.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Gallo, F.,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Fossi<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, C., Weber, R.,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Santillo<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, D., Sousa, J., Ingram, I., Nadal, A., &amp; Romano, D. (2018).\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5918521\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Marine litter plastics and microplastics and their toxic chemicals components: the need for urgent preventive measures<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Environmental sciences Europe<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">30<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">(1), 13.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Microplastics\u00a0Pollution\u00a0And\u00a0Health\u00a0\u00a0 You likely\u00a0use plastic every day. Just\u00a0take a look\u00a0around\u00a0you\u00a0right now and you\u2019ll likely see a dozen plastic things: a\u00a0plastic wrapper for your protein bar, plastic frames for your glasses and case for your cell phone are just a few examples. Daily we use plastic bottles, packaging, furniture, carpets, toothbrushes, paint, clothing\u00a0and\u00a0the list goes on.\u00a0 Plastics [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":23299,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1,1638,2796,1637,93],"tags":[1930,4225,2681,4226],"yst_prominent_words":[2664,105,443,2547,1124,537,269],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13375"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13375"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13375\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":28301,"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13375\/revisions\/28301"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/23299"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13375"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13375"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13375"},{"taxonomy":"yst_prominent_words","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/yst_prominent_words?post=13375"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}