Plastic particles are found in living organisms and in remote areas of the world. While there is no study that definitively proves that plastic is harmful, it makes sense to avoid it. This was reported by MedicalXpress.
Scientists at the University of California, San Francisco, analyzed dozens of studies and concluded that microplastics harm human reproductive function. Their effects have also been linked to respiratory, metabolic and digestive disorders.
Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than five millimeters in size. They enter the environment and the human body from dishes, clothing, and tires. Some studies show that microplastics can trigger inflammation in the body. Some plastics can also block molecules that the body produces to protect against oxidation. Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation have been linked to cancer.
Microplastics also disrupt the endocrine system, which regulates hundreds of body functions, including mood, sleep, reproduction and metabolism. Many plastics contain bisphenol-A. It is similar to the hormone estrogen, and the body sometimes confuses the two. Estrogen helps control puberty, menstruation and pregnancy. BPA prevents the hormone from doing its job. Studies have linked it to endometriosis, infertility, asthma, obesity and fetal development disorders.
Another example is phthalates from plastic. They prevent the body from producing the hormone testosterone. This is especially dangerous for the embryo. Testosterone helps the male reproductive system develop during fetal development. Therefore, phthalates can affect sexual development.
“It’s important to remember that these effects are small on an individual level. This means that your biology can tolerate exposure to plastic without loss of function. Or maybe it can’t. Plastics can push people into disease when they’re already on the verge of organ failure,” explained Professor Tracey Woodroffe.
Scientists have recommended that the government ban or restrict it. Its effectiveness has been proven using other pollutants. There is also sufficient research data to recommend that people avoid plastic products as much as possible.
Previously was named Dangerous ingredient in nail polish.