The Plastic Problem Inside Your BRAIN (Alarming!)

We’ve warned you about microplastics before—the tiny bits of plastic invading our bodies (You can read more about it here in the Health Sciences Institute’s July newsletter).

But what we didn’t know then is just how deep they can go. Recent research has revealed something alarming: microplastics have now been found in the human brain.

It’s one thing to know that these particles are in our bloodstream or digestive system, but finding them in the brain opens up a whole new level of concern…

For seniors, maintaining cognitive health is a top priority. And the idea that these microscopic invaders could be damaging our brain function is unsettling to say the least.

Let’s look at what the presence of these microplastics in our brains might suggest… and how they’re getting there in the first place.

A new study conducted by scientists in Brazil discovered microplastics in the brain tissue of cadavers. Specifically, these particles were found in the olfactory bulb, a region that processes your sense of smell and has direct connections to the brain. Researchers believe this might be one way microplastics are infiltrating our brains—through the nose.

You might wonder, “Why should I care?” Well, the truth is, as we age, our risk for neurological diseases—such as Alzheimer’s—increases, and the presence of foreign particles like microplastics in the brain could potentially contribute to that risk.

We already know that air pollution has been linked to dementia, and microplastics might be another piece of the puzzle.

These tiny plastic particles, which come from common items like rugs, furniture, and even clothes, are everywhere in our environment. In the study, the most common microplastics found were polypropylene and nylon—materials found in everyday household products.

We are constantly exposed to them, especially indoors, where we spend most of our time.

But here’s the scary part: we don’t know exactly what damage these plastics are doing in the brain.

While scientists have found evidence of inflammation when cells are exposed to microplastics in the lab, research in humans is still new. There is concern that these plastics, along with the chemicals used to make them, may play a role in cognitive decline and other neurological diseases.

What we do know is that microplastics have been shown to pass through critical barriers, like the blood-brain barrier, in animal studies.

In one recent study on mice, exposure to microplastics through drinking water over just three weeks caused cognitive changes. While we don’t yet have definitive proof that the same happens in humans, it’s a possibility that shouldn’t be ignored.

So what can you do? Here are three simple steps to help reduce your exposure to microplastics:

1. Use air purifiers: These can help remove airborne plastic particles from your home environment, especially in rooms where you spend the most time.
2. Switch to natural fabrics: Avoid synthetic materials like nylon or polyester in your clothes and home goods. Opt for cotton, wool, or linen instead.
3. Filter your water: Many microplastics come from our water supply. Consider using a high-quality water filter that’s designed to reduce plastic particles.

While it’s impossible to eliminate microplastics from our environment completely, taking small steps to limit your exposure could make a huge difference in protecting your brain health.

To staying informed and staying safe,

Rachel Mace
Managing Editorial Director, e-Alert
with contributions from the research team

P.S. Learn how microplastics quadruple your heart attack, stroke, and death risk—as well as four key steps to protect your health. Click here to access the July 2024 newsletter, or, to become a member, select the red button below.

Sources:

Sullivan, K. (2024, September 17). Microplastics found in the human brain. Yahoo News; Yahoo News. https://www.yahoo.com/news/microplastics-found-human-brain-151954049.html