Researchers have discovered a potential link between microplastic exposure and cardiovascular disease. A recent study published in the journal Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety found that rats exposed to plastic takeout containers showed significant disruptions in their gut biome, inflammation, and extensive damage to heart muscle.
The team tested three groups of rats with water from plastic takeout containers of varying durations, from one minute to 15 minutes. After drinking this water for three months, they observed similar levels of worrying symptoms in all the rats. This suggests that even short-term exposure to microplastics can pose a risk.
Additionally, researchers surveyed nearly 3,200 people in China and found a correlation between frequent plastic exposure and an increased risk of heart failure. However, some limitations were noted, including the reliance on self-reported data from the human survey and the inability to measure plastic particles in rat bodies.
The study’s authors conclude that further research is needed to understand the health impacts of long-term exposure to plastics and to develop safety measures. In the meantime, they advise avoiding using plastic takeout containers for hot food to minimize potential risks.
Source: https://futurism.com/neoscope/study-food-plastic-containers