a recent research The study suggests that the presence of microplastics may increase the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases in heart patients. Small plastics have been found to double the risk of stroke and heart attack.

Scientists have found microplastics in almost every part of the body. lung And that stomachraising questions about how harmful they are.

The study, recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that heart patients with microplastics in the blood vessels on either side of their neck, which carry blood from the heart to the brain and head, were more likely to develop heart disease. It turned out to be double. attack or stroke. These patients were more likely to die in the next three years than those without microplastics in their carotid arteries.

Microplastics are found all over the world. Antarctica to bottom of the atlantic oceanand even cloud.

Depending on the source of the plastic, microplastics can become contaminated with toxic chemical additives during the manufacturing process. When chemical additives enter the body on microplastic particles, they can leach into the body and cause harm. hormones and reproductive system. Similarly, pollutants and microorganisms can also latch on to microplastic particles and pose health risks. human.

Scientists are studying the effects of microplastics on animals. Studies in mice have shown that exposure to microplastics can disrupt bodily functions. gut biome, Decreased sperm quality and testosteroneand impair learning and memory.

Research on these potentially problematic plastics continues. At this time, it is important to understand them and how changing your daily routine can reduce your exposure and health risks.

What is microplastic?

Plastic does not decompose like food or paper. Instead, it is broken down into smaller and smaller parts. When these pieces are less than 5 millimeters in size (about the width of a small paper clip), they become what is known as microplastic.

Microplastics smaller than a micrometer are called nanoplastics and are small enough to break through cell barriers.

Because plastic is one of the most widely used materials in the world, microplastics have found their way into almost everything, including: Animal products, water And even more air.

Due to their large size, exposure to microplastics may not be completely avoidable. However, there are ways to reduce the number of microplastics entering your body.

Tips to reduce exposure

• Dust and vacuum regularly. Removing excess dust from your home can reduce the amount of microplastic fibers in the dust that you can inhale or ingest.
• Avoid drinking from disposable plastic bottles. If you have no choice, leave it alone outside the sunin a cool, dry environment. Disposable plastic water bottles deteriorate very easily in response to temperature changes and friction.
• Please filter water. Due to the widespread use and pollution of plastics, water can contain microplastic particles. household water filter Effective in reducing many pollutants including microplastics.
• Avoid plastic cutting boards. There are many alternatives you can use, including wood, glass, and steel.
• Heat food in the microwave in glass containers rather than plastic or take-out containers. millions of Microplastic particles enter food.

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