In recent years, microplastics have increasingly become the focus of scientific debates. This is no longer just about environmental pollution—microplastics are now also considered a potential risk factor for human health.
The particles are ubiquitous: in food, water, air, and even in the human body. This topic is particularly relevant in the context of longevity and healthy lifespans, as microplastics could affect biological processes that are directly related to Aging. Although many studies are still in their early stages, there is growing evidence that chronic exposure to microplastic particles can have not only local but also systemic effects, which in the long term are associated with an increased risk of disease. But let's take things one step at a time.
In this article, we provide an overview of the most important scientific findings on microplastics and their potential health effects – with a special focus on preventive measures in the sense of Longevity research.
What is microplastic?
Microplastics consist of plastic particles which, by definition, smaller than 5 millimeters are. Nanoplastics is even finer – less than one micrometer – and can penetrate body tissue particularly easily. There are two main types of microplastics:
Primary microplastics becomes targeted manufactured, for example, for cosmetics or cleaning products. These particles usually enter the environment directly through industrial processes or household waste.
Secondary microplastics occurs when larger plastic parts are damaged by sun, wind or mechanical abrasion crushed This process occurs particularly frequently in marine ecosystems, but also through everyday use processes – such as washing synthetic clothing.
For better classification, the following classification is used:
- Macroplastics: larger than 25 mm
- Mesoplasty: 5–25 mm
- Microplastics: 1 µm – 5 mm
- Nanoplastics: smaller than 1 µm
Nanoplastics in particular are considered to be a health hazard, as these particles Due to their small size, they not only pass through cell membranesThey can not only accumulate intracellularly, where they can interfere with important biological processes. Their high reactivity, surface charge, and potential function as carriers of toxic substances make them a particularly critical environmental factor.
Where do we encounter microplastics in everyday life?
We come into contact with microplastics every day – often without realizing it. drinking water, especially from plastic bottles, often contains a substantial amount of particles. Studies have shown that the average contamination in bottled water is several times higher than in tap water. AirEspecially indoors, there are fibers from clothing or furniture that are released through abrasion. These particles can be absorbed through the respiratory tract and deposited in the lungs.
Foods such as fish, seafood, salt, honey and even fruits and vegetables have also been shown to be contaminated in studies.Contamination can be influenced by packaging, transport, water quality, and environmental conditions. Marine animals, in particular, ingest microplastics through their food, which can lead to these particles accumulating in animal tissues – a phenomenon known as Bioaccumulation is known.
Cans are a special example: your Interior coatings often contain hormone-disrupting chemicals such as BPA or BPSthat can dissolve over time. These substances are considered endocrine disruptors and are suspected of affecting hormone functions in the body. Cosmetic products such as scrubs or makeup also used to frequently contain microplastics – this is now banned or restricted in some countries, but is not consistently regulated worldwide.
How does microplastic get into the body?
Microplastics can enter the human body through three main routes:
- Through the mouth – for example, through contaminated food, drinks, or by accidentally swallowing house dust particles. Children are particularly at risk due to their behavior (e.g., hand-to-mouth contact).
- Via the respiratory tract – through inhalation of airborne particles or dust, especially in urban areas or poorly ventilated indoor spaces. Microfibers from synthetic clothing and textiles are particularly relevant here.
- Through the skin – especially with nanoplastics, for example, creams, lotions, or sunscreens that contain carrier substances for polymer particles. However, in terms of quantity, transdermal absorption is significantly less significant than the respiratory tract or mouth.
Microplastics have been detected in human blood, lungs, liver, placenta, and even the stool of newborns. Animal studies show that the particles can also accumulate in the brain, indicating their potential ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.
In short: We are inevitably constantly confronted with microplastics and they make their way into the very core of our bodies.
What effects does microplastic have on the body?
Hormone balance
Many plastics contain chemical additives that act like hormones. These so-called endocrine disruptors can disrupt the balance of the hormonal system. Possible consequences include fertility problems, thyroid disorders, or developmental disorders in babies in the womb. Such substances could also affect the likelihood of hormone-dependent diseases such as breast cancer or prostate cancer.
nervous system
Microplastics can also affect the brain. Studies show that Inflammation and stress reactions Animal experiments have shown behavioral changes, memory problems, and altered neurotransmitter activity. The neurotoxic effects appear to occur particularly when nanoplastic particles enter the central nervous system—a mechanism that requires further research.
immune system
A permanently activated immune system can lead to chronic inflammation – a known risk factor for many diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases and cancer.Microplastics are suspected of triggering precisely such processes, by stimulating the immune system over a longer period of time or causing incorrect reactionsSome studies suggest that the particles can directly affect immune cells, leading to both overreactions and immunosuppression.
Reproduction
In the laboratory, it has been shown that microplastics can impair sperm motility and structure. They also appear to be able to penetrate the placenta, potentially impacting the development of the unborn child. The consequences have not yet been conclusively researched, but initial studies indicate a possible influence on embryonic organ development and hormonal balance.
intestinal health
In the intestine, microplastics can disrupt the protective function of the intestinal wall (“leaky gut”) and the balance of the intestinal microbiome This can promote inflammation and is possibly associated with metabolic diseases such as obesity, insulin resistance, or type 2 diabetes. The impairment of the microbiome is suspected of also influencing neuropsychiatric disorders, as the Gut-brain axis is closely linked to mood, cognition and immune responses.
Cell aging and mitochondria
Microplastics can trigger oxidative stress in cells. This creates so-called free radicals that can damage cellular components such as DNA or mitochondria. This, in turn, can accelerate processes associated with aging. Mitochondrial dysfunction is considered a key driver of aging processes and degenerative diseases. Chronic exposure to microplastics could therefore impair our cellular vitality in the long term.
cardiovascular system
Some evidence suggests that microplastics Formation of deposits in blood vessels This would increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, arteriosclerosis, and stroke. Impairment of endothelial function is also being discussed.
Microplastics and biological aging
Many of the described effects overlap with the known biological basis of aging: chronic Inflammations, mitochondrial damage, epigenetic changes or Disturbances in cell cleansingLong-term exposure to microplastics could therefore contribute to our bodies aging faster – or becoming ill earlier. Microplastics are therefore not just an environmental problem, but potentially a significant factor influencing healthspan – the years in which we live free of chronic disease.
What does "BPA-free" mean – and why that isn't enough?
Many products, especially plastic bottles, baby bottles, cans, and food packaging, advertise themselves as "BPA-free." At first glance, this sounds reassuring—after all, bisphenol A (BPA) is known to be a hormone-disrupting substance and is already regulated in many countries.
However, the industry often replaces BPA with chemically similar compounds such as bisphenol S (BPS) or bisphenol F (BPF)that may have similar endocrine effects.Studies show that BPA is also capable of affecting hormone receptors and may be just as problematic as BPA. Consumers should therefore not rely solely on the "BPA-free" label, but rather opt for products made of glass, stainless steel, or unpackaged food whenever possible. Apps and databases (e.g., CodeCheck or ToxFox) can also help check ingredients.
Can microplastics be tested in the body?
The direct detection of microplastics in the human body is currently only possible within the framework of scientific studies. These methods involve techniques such as pyrolysis gas chromatography or FTIR/Raman spectroscopy, for example, for analyzing blood, tissue, or stool. However, these methods are complex, expensive, and not widely available.
The biohacker Bryan Johnson has experienced the limited availability of such tests: His team contacted over 50 laboratories worldwide – mostly without success. In response, he published Blueprint, the development of a finger-prick test designed to detect microplastics directly in the blood. The goal is to visualize individual exposure and derive targeted measures from it. However, it is questionable how meaningful blood values areThe main problem is the deposits in the body, and this cannot be measured with this method.
Until such tests are widely available, the indirect route via biomarkers such as oxidative stress (8-OHdG) or inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6) remains relevant – even if these are not microplastic-specific. of exposure (e.g., through filtered water and a plastic-free diet) and supports the body's own Detox-Function preventive through nutrition and Micronutrients.
Supporting the body's own detoxification: Role of the liver and sulforaphane
The liver is the central organ for detoxification and also plays a crucial role in the processing and excretion of microplastic components and their accompanying substances (such as plasticizers or flame retardants). It utilizes a complex system of enzymes, particularly those involved in phase II detoxification, to render harmful substances water-soluble and excrete them via bile or urine.
One bioactive plant substance that, according to studies, can support these processes is sulforaphane – a secondary plant substance found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables. Sulforaphan activates the so-called Nrf2 signaling pathway, which controls numerous antioxidant and detoxifying enzymes are upregulated and thus may also help in the defense against and excretion of microplastic-related pollutants. Regular consumption of broccoli sprouts or concentrated extracts can therefore support the internal "detox" function.
Sweating as a natural detoxification strategy
In addition to the liver, the skin also plays an important role in detoxifying the body. Sweat can excrete not only electrolytes but also pollutants such as heavy metals, certain environmental toxins, and possibly even components of microplastics. Studies suggest that regular sweating – for example through exercise, sports or visiting the sauna and Infrared cabin – can support the natural excretion process.
Even though the direct detection of microplastics in sweat has not yet been sufficiently researched, initial indications suggest that Sweat could be a complementary detoxification pathway. In addition, regular sweating improves blood circulation, lymph flow, and cell regeneration—all processes associated with healthy aging and the body's own cleansing process.
What can you do to avoid microplastics?
Even though microplastics are ubiquitous, there are ways to reduce your exposure. Some of them can be easily integrated into your daily life and have not only health but also environmental benefits.
When drinking:
- Avoid plastic bottles, use glass or stainless steel
- Filter your tap water, e.g., with reverse osmosis or activated carbon
- Avoid hot liquids from plastic cups
During the meal:
- Avoid canned goods and ready meals with plastic packaging
- Do not heat food in plastic containers, use glass, ceramic or stainless steel
- Buy loose, unpackaged food at the weekly market
- Avoid sea salt
- Use uncoated pans
In the household:
- Wear clothes made of cotton, wool or linen instead of polyester or nylon
- Use wash bags to remove microfibers
- Install microplastic filters on the washing machine
- Keep the apartment as dust-free as possible by regularly wiping and airing
In body care:
- Choose certified cosmetics without microplastics
- Pay attention to ingredients such as polyethylene, nylon or acrylates
- Prefer products in glass containers or solid form (e.g. soap bars)
