Gruesome Effect Of Microplastics On Your Body

22 May 2025

In this article we share some concerning information about the widespread presence of microplastics in our daily lives. It's quite alarming to learn that these tiny plastic particles are now virtually everywhere, from the food we eat and the clothes we wear to the water we drink and everyday household items. Shockingly, studies conducted in the US indicate that microplastics are now found in the bodies of every American.

These microplastics can leach from plastic products into our bodies through direct contact or consumption. Over time, they accumulate and can disrupt our hormones, potentially increasing the risk of various diseases, causing skin issues like dryness and inflammation, and contributing to weight fluctuations.

A recent report from a UK recycling company highlights the potential impact of these toxins on our skin. According to Mark Hall, a plastics waste expert involved in the report, the signs of how this pollution might affect us are worrying. Research has detected microplastics, generally defined as plastic particles between 1 nanometer (nm) and 5 millimeters (mm) in size., throughout the human body, including in our blood, saliva, and vital organs such as the kidneys, placenta, and even the brain.

Further studies suggest a link between microplastic exposure and hormone disruption, as well as an increased risk of heart disease, cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and other health conditions. Scientists have also proposed that hormonal imbalances caused by microplastics could contribute to weight gain. Additionally, there are concerns that exposure to these pollutants may lead to red and irritated eyes, and respiratory problems like coughing and wheezing.

At a low level of exposure, representing microplastics encountered through food, drink, and everyday environments, the report suggests that even small amounts can interfere with hormones, leading to dry, red, and irritated skin.

With medium exposure, simulating regular consumption of processed foods (often packaged in plastic), seafood (known to contain higher levels of microplastics), and frequent wearing of synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester, researchers predict further skin irritation, hormone disruption, increased skin oil production, and accelerated aging. Notably, hormone disruptions affecting testosterone are known to increase oil production in the skin. This level of exposure is also associated with living in areas with higher air pollution, potentially causing red, irritated eyes and respiratory issues. Hormonal imbalances at this stage may also lead to weight fluctuations and digestive problems, as well as fatigue and brain fog as the body struggles to cope with the cumulative effects.

High-level exposure, which includes workplace exposure (such as in waste management or synthetic textile industries), low-quality drinking water, and consistent use of synthetic fabrics and cookware, is estimated to cause even more significant skin inflammation and premature aging. This may manifest as skin discoloration and the development of hard, non-healing lumps or lesions. Blue or purple discoloration of the lips and fingertips may also occur. Researchers also anticipate greater hormonal disruption at this level, potentially leading to hair thinning or loss, unexplained weight fluctuations, and irregular menstrual cycles.

Mr. Hall offered several practical recommendations to minimize microplastic exposure. These include reducing the use of single-use plastics, filtering drinking water, choosing natural fabrics like cotton and wool over nylon and polyester, opting for organic food when possible, limiting seafood consumption, and using wooden or glass alternatives to plastic kitchen utensils and food containers.

It's important to be aware of these potential health risks and consider these simple changes to help reduce our exposure to microplastics. The easiest change when it comes to consumption of water from plastic bottles – is to use a home water filter. These filter systems deliver filtered clear water strait to your kitchen tap.