We’ve all heard about plastic pollution, but what about the tiny bits of plastic you can’t see? Microplastics are making their way into every part of our lives—from the air we breathe to the food we eat and the water we drink. These microscopic particles, less than 5 millimeters in size, are everywhere, and we’re just beginning to understand the full impact they could have on our health and the environment.
In this post, we’re going to talk about what microplastics are, why they’re a concern, and, most importantly, how you can reduce your exposure—starting with your water.
What Exactly Are Microplastics?
Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic that come from a variety of sources. They can form when larger plastic items, like bottles or bags, break down over time. But they’re also intentionally made small, like the microbeads used in exfoliating scrubs and toothpaste. These particles are so tiny that they often go unnoticed, but once they’re in the environment, they pollute our oceans, rivers, soil, and even the air.
Microplastics have been found in drinking water, seafood, and even throughout the human body. So, while it’s impossible to completely escape microplastics, there are ways you can limit your exposure.
Why Should We Be Concerned About Microplastics?
Recent studies have identified several potential health risks associated with microplastic exposure:
Endocrine Disruption: Microplastics can leach harmful chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA), which interfere with hormonal systems. This disruption has been linked to various health issues, including reproductive disorders and increased cancer risk.
Oxidative Stress and DNA Damage: Exposure to microplastics has been associated with oxidative stress, leading to DNA damage. This cellular harm may contribute to the development of chronic diseases, including cancer.
Inflammatory Responses: Microplastics can trigger inflammation in the human body. Chronic inflammation is linked to various conditions, such as heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Metabolic Disorders: There is evidence suggesting that microplastics may disrupt metabolic processes, potentially leading to conditions like insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Neurological Effects: Studies have detected microplastics in human brain tissues, raising concerns about potential neurotoxic effects. This presence may be associated with cognitive decline and other neurological disorders.
How Can You Reduce Your Exposure to Microplastics?
Reducing your exposure to microplastics may seem like a daunting task, but making a couple simple changes can have a big impact.
1. Use a Quality Water Filter
One of the easiest and most effective ways to filter out microplastics is by investing in a high-quality water filter like the PUR2o Alkaline Plus with Molecular Hydrogen. According to a new scientific paper, switching from bottled water to filtered tap water can decrease your microplastic intake through water consumption by about 90%, from 90,000 to 4,000 particles per year.
2. Ditch Plastic for Glass or Stainless Steel
Plastic is one of the biggest sources of microplastics, so reducing your plastic use can make a real difference. Instead of using single-use plastic bottles, try switching to glass or stainless steel for your water, food storage, and beverages.
3. Be Mindful of Personal Care Products
Many personal care products, like exfoliating scrubs, contain microbeads — tiny plastic particles that go straight down the drain when you wash them off. To avoid these, choose natural alternatives like sugar scrubs or oatmeal-based exfoliators.
4. Cut Back on Single-Use Plastics
Reduce your overall use of single-use plastics. Think plastic straws, utensils, and bags—small changes that can make a big difference. Instead, opt for sustainable options like bamboo, metal, or compostable materials.
5. Support Plastic-Free Initiatives
Join the plastic-free movement by supporting initiatives that aim to reduce plastic pollution. Whether it’s backing policies to ban single-use plastics or participating in local cleanup efforts, every action counts. Together, we can reduce the overall amount of plastic in our world—and in our bodies.
The Bottom Line
Microplastics are here, and they’re affecting everything from our health to our planet. While it may seem overwhelming, there are ways to reduce your exposure. One of the easiest steps is to filter your water, as drinking water is one of the most common ways microplastics make their way into our bodies.
At PUR2o, we’re committed to helping you keep your water clean and your body healthy by offering water filtration systems designed to reduce contaminants like microplastics. By making small changes in your daily routine, we can all take part in the fight against plastic pollution.
Ready to take the next step towards reducing your exposure to microplastics? Contact us today.
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