What's That Rash? How worried should you be about microplastics?
Apr 8, 2025
Microplastics are infiltrating our air, water, and even our bodies, raising concerns about their health effects. The hosts tackle listener questions, explore the origins of these tiny particles, and debunk myths, including the exaggerated notion that we consume a credit card worth per week. They take a deeper dive into potential risks linked to cancer and fertility, while also discussing the ever-present microplastics in everyday products like chewing gum. It’s a fascinating journey through the complex landscape of plastic pollution and health.
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Microplastics and Nanoplastics Defined
- Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, smaller than 5mm, while nanoplastics are even tinier.
- These particles enter our bodies through various sources like plastic packaging, clothing fibers, and degraded plastics in water.
Credit Card Myth Debunked
- The claim that humans ingest a credit card's worth of microplastics weekly is a myth.
- A revised calculation suggests it's closer to one credit card every 23,000 years.
Potential Health Risks of Microplastics
- Microplastics pose two main potential health risks: physical damage from jagged edges and chemical leaching.
- Chemicals like phthalates, used to make plastic flexible, are a concern, along with other substances that can attach to microplastics.