The Silent Threat of Microplastics, Risk of Hormone Disruption

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - In recent times, pressing health issues such as microplastics in our food have come under the spotlight. These tiny plastic particles, measuring less than 5 mm, have infiltrated our food, posing significant health risks.

What are microplastics?

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that are formed from the breakdown of larger plastics. Due to their durability, microplastics persist in the environment and have been found in a variety of foods. Dr Sharad Malhotra, Senior Consultant & Director of Gastroenterology at Aakash Healthcare, says microplastics are tiny plastic particles that are formed from the breakdown of plastics, which are widespread in nature and thus harm wildlife and humans. Microplastics have been found in a variety of foods and can also be inhaled.

Microplastics enter the food chain through various routes:

1. Seafood

Marine animals ingest plastic debris, which then finds its way into human food.

2. Salt

Sea salt, in particular, is contaminated due to marine pollution.

3. Drinking Water

Bottled drinking water and tap water contain microplastics.

4. Honey and Sugar

Studies have detected plastic particles in these sweeteners.

5. Fruits and Vegetables

Crops irrigated with contaminated water accumulate microplastics.

6. Plastic Packaging

Washing from containers during storage or heating contributes to contamination.

Dr Bir Singh Sehrawat, Clinical Director of Gastroenterology Program & HOD at Marengo Asia Hospital Faridabad, explains that microplastics consumed through food, water or air can accumulate in the body, especially in the gastrointestinal tract, increasing the risk of certain health conditions such as intestinal inflammation, dysbiosis (imbalance of gut microbiota), and potentially increasing the risk of conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBS) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBD). Microplastics can also cause systemic inflammation, leading to other chronic conditions.

Consumption of microplastics has been linked to a range of health issues:

1. Hormone Disruption

Chemicals such as BPA and phthalates, which are associated with plastics, can disrupt hormone production.

2. Immune System Dysfunction

Microplastics can cause oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to immune system dysfunction.

3. DNA Damage

Long-term exposure can lead to genetic mutations and an increased risk of cancer.

Dr. Mandeep Singh Malhotra, Senior Oncologist at Art of Healing Cancer, warns, “They can also cause DNA damage that leads to cancer. They can disrupt our endocrine system, which is the production of hormones. Our immune system also experiences excessive oxidative stress and inflammation, causing it to malfunction.”

Some of the findings about microplastics are concerning. In one study, scientists found microplastics in human blood for the first time. In another study, they found plastic particles in the placenta of unborn babies.

“People who eat a lot of seafood or work in industries that deal with plastic may be at higher risk. In extreme cases, long-term exposure has been linked to issues like respiratory problems, hormonal imbalances, and even organ damage,” says Samiksha Kalra, Nutritionist, Madhukar Rainbow Children’s Hospital.

What Can Be Done to Reduce Microplastic Exposure?

1. Choose Fresh Food

Choose fresh produce over packaged goods.

2. Use Alternative Containers

Swap plastic containers for glass or stainless steel containers.

3. Avoid Heating Food in Plastic

Do not microwave food in plastic containers.

4. Choose Personal Care Products Wisely

Avoid products containing microbeads

Dr. Bir Singh suggests choosing fresh foods and avoiding plastic water bottles, using glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic. Avoid heating food in plastic containers, especially in the microwave as the heat can cause the plastic to break down and release microplastics into your food.

"Use glass or ceramic containers instead. Choose personal care products wisely as many face scrubs and toothpastes contain tiny plastic microbeads.”

HINDUSTAN TIMES

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