Scientists have issued a warning after discovering that humans contain approximately a spoon’s worth of microplastics and nanoplastics in their brains. A recent study found that people with dementia had up to 10 times more microplastics present in their brains compared to those without the condition.
The research, published in Brain Medicine, reveals that the human brain contains higher levels of microplastics than other organs, such as the liver and kidneys. The findings are alarming, particularly for patients with dementia.
Experts warn that it is almost impossible to avoid ingesting plastic, but there are ways to reduce exposure. Research suggests that drinking tap water instead of bottled water can significantly decrease microplastic intake, from 90,000 per year to 4,000. Additionally, choosing paper tea bags over plastic ones can also help minimize exposure.
The study’s authors suggest that limiting canned food consumption and opting for non-plastic or BPA-free packaged alternatives can effectively reduce exposure to microplastics. They also advise avoiding heating food in plastic containers, especially in the microwave, as this can release staggering amounts of microplastics.
Processed foods, such as chicken nuggets, contain high levels of microplastics due to industrial processing. The study’s findings suggest that there is hope for clearing microplastic accumulation from the body through sweat, urine, and faeces.
However, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of these strategies in reducing microplastic exposure and eliminating microplastics from the human body.
Source: https://www.getsurrey.co.uk/news/health/dementia-link-bottled-water-human-31202457