Scientists have discovered that the amount of microplastics in human brains is increasing, with concentrations rising by 50% between 2016 and 2024. This finding has sparked concern among researchers, who are now examining the impact of ultra-processed foods on brain health.
Studies have shown that people who consume ultra-processed foods have a higher risk of depression, anxiety, and poor sleep. Researchers believe that microplastics, which can cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in alarming quantities, may be contributing to these outcomes.
Microplastics found in ultra-processed foods like chicken nuggets contain 30 times more microplastics per gram than chicken breasts. The researchers propose developing a Dietary Microplastic Index to quantify people’s exposure through food consumption.
While reducing exposure to microplastics through better food choices and packaging alternatives is crucial, researchers also need to investigate methods for removing these particles from the human body. One potential method is apheresis, but more research is still needed.
The findings highlight the urgent need for further investigation into this potential association between ultra-processed foods, microplastic exposure, and adverse mental health outcomes.
Source: https://fortune.com/well/2025/05/20/the-plastic-spoon-of-microplastics-in-your-brain-could-stem-from-these-foods-that-are-wrecking-your-health-researchers-say