Microplastics might be messing with your immune system... and heart

We've all heard the alarm bells about microplastics. These tiny fragments of plastic pollution are now everywhere – in our food, our water, and even the air we breathe. But what most people don't realise is that microplastics could be quietly undermining a vital part of our well-being: our immune system.

What are microplastics?

Microplastics are plastic pieces smaller than 5 millimeters. They come from various sources:

• Breakdown of larger plastics: Plastic bottles, bags, and other items slowly degrade into smaller and smaller microplastics.
• Microbeads: Found in some personal care products like face scrubs and toothpaste.
• Synthetic fibers: Released from clothing during washing.

How microplastics may harm our immune system

Researchers are still working to fully understand the complex ways that microplastics affect our bodies, but emerging evidence paints a concerning picture:

• Inflammation: Microplastics can act as irritants, triggering inflammation within our bodies. Chronic inflammation can put a strain on our immune system and leave us more vulnerable to infections and diseases.
• Oxidative stress: Microplastics can increase the production of harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS). Excessive ROS levels create oxidative stress, which damages cells and compromises immune function.
• Disrupting the gut microbiome: Our gut bacteria play a critical role in immunity. Studies suggest that microplastics can alter the delicate balance of the gut microbiome, potentially weakening our immune defenses.
• Carrying toxic pollutants: Microplastics act like sponges, soaking up toxins and chemicals from the environment. When we ingest or inhale microplastics, these pollutants may weaken our immune system.

Evidence from research

While more research is needed in humans, animal studies offer some insights into the potential effects:

• Zebrafish: Exposure to microplastics altered the expression of immune system genes and led to changes in immune cell activity.
• Mice: Microplastic exposure had negative impacts on gut health and immune response.
• Invertebrates: Research shows compromised immune systems in mussels, worms, and other organisms.

Protecting yourself and supporting research

While the science on microplastics and immunity is still developing, we can take precautions to reduce our exposure to these pollutants:

• Filter your water: Invest in a water filtration system that removes microplastics.
• Choose natural products: Opt for personal care products without microbeads and reduce your reliance on single-use plastics.
• Minimise plastic food packaging: Store food in glass or stainless steel containers.
• Support environmental NGOs: Advocate for policies and measures to combat plastic pollution.

Bad news for our hearts?

Emerging research is raising concerns about a potential association between microplastics and cardiovascular health. Recent studies suggest that the presence of microplastics within atherosclerotic plaques (buildup in arteries) may correlate with an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, or death. It is hypothesized that these microscopic plastic fragments could exacerbate inflammation within already compromised blood vessels, leading to adverse cardiovascular events. While further investigation is necessary to establish a definitive causal link, these findings underscore the urgency of addressing the microplastic pollution crisis to protect overall human health.

Further reading:

https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/2024/03/new-study-links-microplastics-serious-health-harms-humans

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/dec/08/microplastics-damage-human-cells-study-plastic