Learn about the potential dangers of plastic usage on human health, including the release of harmful compounds into food. Discover the impact of microwaving plastic containers and the integration of microplastics and nanoplastics into human tissues. Explore alternative food storage options and the importance of avoiding plastic containers. Find out about the negative effects of plastic bottled water on human health and the significance of using glass and stainless steel containers. Understand the urgency for action to reduce plastic exposure and improve human health.
Microwaving plastic containers can release millions of microplastic and nanoplastic particles into our food, posing potential health risks.
Ingesting microplastics from plastics used for food storage and packaging can lead to oxidative stress, inflammation, neurotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, and changes in intestinal microflora.
Deep dives
Plastics release microplastics and nanoplastics when microwaved
A study discovered that microwaveable plastic containers release millions of microplastic and nanoplastic particles when heated in a microwave. These particles can make their way into our food, leading to potential health ramifications. Refrigerating or storing food in plastic containers for extended periods can also release microplastics and nanoplastics. The term 'microwave safe' does not guarantee that plastics are safe for consumption as they can still release these harmful particles.
Consumption of microplastics from food and beverages
A study found that the average person consumes microplastics equivalent to a few plastic bags annually. People who consume large amounts of ultraprocessed foods stored in plastics could consume up to 50 plastic bags worth of microplastics per year. The ingestion of these microplastics has been linked to various health issues, including oxidative stress, inflammation, neurotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, and changes in the structure of intestinal microflora. Bottle-fed infants may consume over 1.5 million microplastic particles per day on average.
Plastic compounds can impact brain health and behavior
Researchers have found that exposure to microplastics and nanoplastics can induce oxidative stress, cellular damage, and increased vulnerability to neuronal and brain disorders. These compounds can also inhibit acetylcholine steroid activity and alter neurotransmitter levels, potentially leading to behavioral changes. The integration of these plastics into our brains and bodies calls for increased attention and protection.
Sweating as a way to eliminate plastics from the body
Sweating has been found to be one of the most notable ways to eliminate bisphenol A (BPA) and other plastic-related compounds from the body. Supporting processes of elimination and detoxification can help remove these plastic compounds. Regular exercise and spending time outside in the sun can stimulate sweating. Additionally, storing food in non-plastic containers, choosing glass or stainless steel, and drinking water from non-plastic bottles can help reduce plastic exposure.
Plastic has become one of the most common and convenient substances in our modern world. Especially when it comes to food packaging and food storage, plastic has infiltrated the market, frequently used for everyday items like storing leftovers, bottled water, and baby bottles. However, plastic contains thousands of harmful compounds that have the potential to disrupt your hormones, metabolism, and brain.
On today’s show, you’re going to learn the truth about how plastic usage can impact human health. You’ll hear the studies on how plastic containers can release particles into food, the truth behind plastic regulation in the food system, and the proven detrimental effects of frequent plastic usage. Most importantly, we’re going to discuss realistic ways to reduce your plastic exposure and tips for enhancing your body’s ability to eliminate toxins.
Making a positive impact on your health can be as simple as making practical tweaks to your existing routine. I hope this episode inspires you to reduce your plastic usage in a way that works for your lifestyle and family. Click play to learn more about how plastics are changing human health!
In this episode you’ll discover:
The impact of microwaving plastic food containers.
What microwave safe actually means.
The history of plastic production.
How exposure to microplastics can impact our biology.
The scary truth about using plastic baby bottles.
How microplastics and nano plastics can integrate into our tissues.
The connection between plastic exposure and risk for developing brain disorders.
What xenoestrogens are and how they can impact your body.
Why BPA free plastics can also damage your health.
The connection between BPA and fertility.
Healthier options for food storage.
What to consider about drinking from plastic water bottles.
The best ways to support your body’s natural detoxification systems.
How to approach plastic reduction in a realistic way.