Pesticides: Risks Beyond Produce

Plastics aren’t just polluting the planet. They’re showing up in our bodies in ways we never imagined. From our brain to our bloodstream, even fertility treatments, microplastics are everywhere.

This week’s guest, Dr. Robin Mesnage, toxicologist and researcher, reveals why microplastics and pesticides are far more pervasive than we realize, from our kitchen cupboards to our hospitals. Drawing on cutting-edge research, he explains how plastics interact with our hormones, fertility, and long-term health, while also giving empowering, practical steps to reduce exposure without fear or overwhelm.

Together we explore:

– How microplastics end up in our brain, heart, and reproductive organs

– Why BPA-free labels often don’t mean “safe”

– The surprising truth about glass vs. plastic bottles

– How IV drips and hospital environments expose us to hidden toxins

– The fertility crisis: sperm count decline, egg retrieval, and endocrine disruptors

– Pesticides, organic vs. non-organic food, and what’s really worth paying more for

– Practical, realistic swaps in the kitchen, home, and daily life to lower toxic load

– Why small, sustainable changes are the most powerful path forward

Love,

Sarah Ann 💛

***

This episode is sponsored by Spatone – the No.1 iron-rich water supplement.

This is a product I genuinely believe in — one I’ve used personally and recommended in the clinic for years. Spatone is a natural iron-rich water that’s incredibly gentle on the stomach. No harsh tablets, no digestive upset — just one naturally sourced ingredient that works.

If you’re looking for iron support that actually feels good to take, this is the one I trust. You can pick up Spatone at Boots: Spatone Apple Daily Iron Shots + Vitamin C 28 Sachets - Boots

**

This episode is also sponsored by London Nootropics, the best-in-class adaptogenic coffee I trust. Made with Hifas da Terra mushroom extracts, it supports focus, calm, and energy, and helps you stay sharp throughout the day.

Enjoy 20% off with code LIVEWELLBEWELL at https://londonnootropics.com/

***

If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:

Your “Healthy” Food Is the Problem | How Ultra-Processed Foods Affect Women’s Hormones & Gut Health

http://youtube.com/watch?v=VN5wS6ZpsoE

***

Connect with Dr. Robin Mesnage:

🌐 Website: https://mesnage.github.io

📚 Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=dcmZjHMAAAAJ

🏫 King’s College London Profile: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/people/robin-mesnage-1👉Book: Herbicides: Chemistry, Efficacy, Toxicology, and Environmental Impacts

https://www.amazon.com/Herbicides-Chemistry-Toxicology-Environmental-Analytical/dp/0128236744

***

Sign up to Sarah’s Compassionate Cure newsletter: 

Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/

***

Highlights:

Intro (00:00)

What Are Microplastics Doing Inside Our Bodies? (4:06)Are Glass Bottles Really Safer Than Plastic? (08:03)

Microplastics in IV Drips and Hospitals (11:48)The Kitchen: Biggest Source of Microplastics (15:02)

Why “BPA-Free” Doesn’t Mean Safe (20:44)Endocrine Disruptors, Autism, and the Global Fertility Crisis (28:00)Everyday Swaps to Lower Plastic Exposure (36:09)

Do Saunas Remove Toxins, and Is Organic Food Worth the Cost? (41:57)

How Harmful Are Pesticides? (48:41)Building Sustainable Habits Around Plastics (52:16)***

Let’s be friends!

📷 Instagram:  / sarahannmacklin

📹 Subscribe:   / @livewellbewellsarah  

🐦 Twitter:  / sarahannmacklin  

📱 TikTok:  / sarahannnutrition  

💌 Newsletter: https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/

***

Love what you’re hearing? My small ask is to please rate and review Live Well Be Well. This helps the show expand and allows me to keep producing these with the best quality guests. It means a huge amount to me, so thank you.