Tiny plastic particles called microplastics are everywhere. They’re in our water, food, air, and bodies.
Although microplastics might be invisible to the naked eye, their impact on our health is anything but small—especially for women.
Here’s what you need to know about microplastics, their effects on hormones, and how to protect yourself.
What Are Microplastics?
Microplastics are plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size. They originate from:
- Breakdown of larger plastics: Plastic bottles, bags, and containers degrade into tiny pieces over time.
- Microbeads in personal care products: Found in exfoliating scrubs and toothpaste (now banned in some countries).
- Synthetic fibers: Released from washing clothes made of polyester, nylon, or acrylic.
These particles don’t just stay in the environment; they infiltrate our bodies through the food we eat, the water we drink, and even the air we breathe.
The Hormonal Impact of Microplastics
One of the most concerning aspects of microplastics is their potential to disrupt hormones.
This happens because microplastics often contain or attract endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) like bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and persistent organic pollutants (POPs).
These chemicals can mimic, block, or alter the body’s natural hormones, leading to a range of health issues.
For Women, This Can Mean:
- Hormonal Imbalances:
- Chemicals like BPA mimic estrogen, which can lead to estrogen dominance. This may exacerbate conditions like PMS, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis.
- Menopause Symptoms:
- EDCs can interfere with the natural decline of hormones during menopause, potentially worsening symptoms like mood swings, insulin sensitivity, and hot flashes.
- Fertility Issues:
- Exposure to phthalates (chemicals used to make plastics more flexible) has been linked to reduced fertility and disrupted menstrual cycles.
- Thyroid Dysfunction:
- Microplastics can disrupt thyroid hormones, which are crucial for metabolism and energy, leading to fatigue and mood changes.
- Weight Gain and Metabolic Changes:
- Microplastics can interfere with hormones that regulate hunger, fat storage, and glucose metabolism, making it harder to lose weight.
Where Are You Most Exposed?
While microplastics are unavoidable in modern life, certain sources contribute significantly to our exposure:
- Water: Bottled water often contains more microplastics than tap water.
- Food: Microplastics are found in seafood, salt, and even fruits and vegetables due to contaminated soil and water.
- Packaging: Food stored in plastic containers or wrapped in plastic can leach microplastics.
- Clothing: Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and lycra shed tiny plastic fibres when washed, contributing to microplastic pollution in waterways. These fibers can also end up in household dust, which we may inhale or ingest.
- Household Dust: Inhaled microplastics come from carpets, furniture, and synthetic fabrics.
How to Protect Yourself
Small changes can make a big difference!
1. Choose Safer Containers:
- Opt for glass or stainless steel instead of plastic for storing food and drinks.
- Avoid heating food in plastic containers, as heat increases the release of harmful chemicals.
2. Filter Your Water:
- Invest in a high-quality water filter that removes microplastics.
3. Limit Packaged Foods:
- Choose fresh, unpackaged produce whenever possible.
4. Use Rock Salt:
- Sea salt is contaminated with microplastics due to plastic pollution in the ocean. Opt for rock salt or Himalayan salt, mined from ancient deposits and less likely to contain microplastics.
5. Detoxification:
- Incorporate foods that help your body process and eliminate toxins:
- Cruciferous vegetables eg. Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, Bok chop
- Leafy greens for antioxidants.
- Citrus fruits to boost natural detox pathways.
Microplastics may be small, but their impact on women’s health is significant. By understanding their effects and taking proactive steps, you can support your hormones, improve your well-being, and inspire others to do the same.
