Brain Loaded With Microplastics?

In recent years, the potential impact of microplastics on health has drawn widespread attention. Microplastics refer to plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in diameter, which are ubiquitous in the environment. 

Humans mainly ingest microplastics through food, water, air, and skin contact. Although research is still preliminary, there is evidence suggesting that microplastics may have negative effects on human health. 

The sources of microplastics are diverse — including the breakdown of plastic products, industrial emissions, and microbeads in personal care products. Studies estimate that humans may ingest substantial amounts of microplastics daily via diet, breathing, or skin absorption. For instance, it is claimed that Malaysians on average ingest 0.5 grams of microplastics daily, primarily derived from contaminated fish — highlighting the severity of water pollution. 

Furthermore, autopsy reports over the past eight years show that microplastic concentrations in human brains and kidneys have increased by 50%. In particular, microplastic concentration in the brain was found to be 30 times higher than in the liver and kidneys. Some researchers estimate that a modern human brain may accumulate up to 10 grams of microplastics — roughly the size of a crayon. Given that these studies used standardized microplastic samples, actual amounts may be underestimated. 

Laboratory experiments — mainly on animals and cells — suggest microplastics could affect human health in multiple ways:

• First, microplastics may disrupt gut microbiota, leading to inflammation and digestive problems. 

• Second, inhalation of microplastics — especially sharp-edged particles — could cause physical damage to the lungs. 

• Third, microplastics may interfere with reproductive hormones and development, cause oxidative stress leading to cellular damage, and impair immune system functions. 

Limitations of Current Research

Despite these concerning findings, current research has significant limitations. Most studies are conducted on animals, making it difficult to directly extrapolate their results to humans. Moreover, microplastics vary widely in type, size, and composition; those found in the natural environment often contain additives that make them harder to break down. 

In addition, there is a lack of standardized detection protocols internationally, which makes it challenging to compare and integrate different studies. 

As of now, scientists can only show associations between microplastics and certain health issues — but cannot confirm causality. For example, one observational study found that brains of dementia patients had higher microplastic levels than those of healthy individuals; and vascular patients whose blood vessels contained microplastics had 3.5 times higher risk of stroke and death. However, these results could be influenced by many confounding factors such as diet, socioeconomic status, or genetics. 

How to Reduce Exposure — Even Before Causality Is Confirmed

Given the uncertainties, many researchers argue it’s smarter to adopt preventive measures now, rather than wait for definitive proof. Some practical steps you can take:

1. Boil drinking water — Even if your home has filters, boiling water can remove up to 97% of microplastics, because they tend to bind with minerals in water and precipitate. By contrast, reverse osmosis (RO) water treatment may not have the same effect. 

2. Reduce plastic use — Use stainless steel or glass bottles and tableware to minimize plastic contact. 

3. Avoid microwaving plastic containers — Even if containers are labeled “microwave safe,” it’s safer not to heat food in plastic. 

4. Use traditional tea brewing methods — Avoid tea bags; use a teapot instead. 

5. Cook at home whenever possible — Reduce reliance on takeaway or packaged food to lower the chance of food–plastic contact. Even paper containers might have plastic coatings. 

In summary, even before science fully clarifies all the risks, it’s wise to minimize microplastic exposure as a precautionary principle. 

Original Article From Nanyang Daily:  https://www.enanyang.my/news/20250316/Supplement/673564(Written By Edward Lau, Founder of Ingrelicious and Diet Clinic)