About microplastics. What can be done? In every garment?
What effect does it have on the body? How can it be avoided if possible?
7/19/20263 min read
Potential Health Effects of Microplastics
Physical Irritation and Inflammation
Some microplastic particles may become lodged in body tissues, where they can cause mechanical irritation, oxidative stress at the cellular level, and inflammatory responses.
Chemical Exposure
During manufacturing, plastics are often mixed with additives such as phthalates, flame retardants, and colorants. Some of these substances are known endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), capable of interfering with the body's hormonal system.
Carriers of Environmental Pollutants
The surface of microplastic particles can adsorb heavy metals, pesticide residues, and other persistent organic pollutants from the environment. Once inside the body, these contaminants may contribute to the overall toxic burden.
Interaction with Diet
Experimental studies suggest that a high-fat Western-style diet may amplify the adverse biological effects of microplastics. Under these conditions, increased fat accumulation in the liver and more pronounced inflammatory responses have been observed compared with a balanced diet.
Where Are Microplastics Found?
Synthetic textiles—including polyester, nylon, acrylic, and fleece—release microscopic fibers into the air and wastewater every time they are worn or washed.
In many regions, agricultural soils contain even higher concentrations of microplastics than marine environments. Major sources include plastic mulch films used in farming, the application of sewage sludge as fertilizer, and synthetic fibers released from clothing into the air and wastewater.
Clothing made from 100% organic cotton contains no synthetic fibers and therefore does not release microplastics during use or washing. Instead, natural cellulose fibers gradually biodegrade.
What Should You Look for When Buying Organic Cotton?
Not every garment labeled as "organic cotton" is made entirely from natural fibers. Many fabrics contain small amounts of elastane (spandex), for example 95% organic cotton and 5% elastane, while others are sewn with polyester thread. These products can still release microplastic particles during everyday wear and laundering.
Potential Effects on the Body in More Detail
Research suggests that poor dietary habits and microplastic exposure may act synergistically, meaning they can reinforce each other's harmful effects.
Experimental studies have associated this combination with:
Increased fat accumulation in the liver and structural changes in liver tissue.
Disruption of the normal balance of the gut microbiome (dysbiosis).
Increased intestinal permeability, allowing harmful substances to enter the bloodstream more easily.
Enhanced inflammatory processes throughout the body.
A potentially higher risk of metabolic disorders.
The long-term health implications for humans are still under active scientific investigation.
Major Sources of Human Exposure to Microplastics
People are exposed to microplastics through many aspects of everyday life, including:
Bottled mineral water and soft drinks stored in plastic containers.
Pre-packaged foods, vegetables, and ready-made meals sold in plastic packaging.
Seafood, particularly shellfish and certain fish species that accumulate microplastics from polluted waters.
Wearing and washing synthetic clothing.
Chewing gums made with synthetic polymer-based ingredients.
How Can You Reduce Microplastic Exposure?
Limit the consumption of ultra-processed foods that are high in saturated fats.
Choose fresh, seasonal foods with minimal or no plastic packaging whenever possible.
Store food in glass or ceramic containers instead of plastic.
Eat plenty of fiber-rich and antioxidant-rich plant foods to support a healthy gut microbiome.
Reduce the regular use of bottled beverages by choosing filtered tap water or reusable glass bottles whenever possible.
Whenever possible, wear clothing made from natural fibers, especially garments that remain in direct contact with the skin throughout the day. Washing natural and synthetic textiles separately may also help reduce the spread of synthetic microfibers.
Microplastics – Why Should We Pay Attention to Them?
What Are Microplastics?
Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters. They originate from either primary or secondary sources. Primary microplastics are intentionally manufactured in microscopic sizes for use in products such as certain cosmetics. Secondary microplastics are formed through the breakdown, wear, and weathering of larger plastic items, packaging materials, and synthetic textiles.
How Do They Enter the Human Body?
Microplastics enter the human body mainly through food, drinking water, and the air we breathe. Studies have detected their presence in human lungs, bloodstream, and even the placenta. Although their long-term effects on human health are still being actively investigated, laboratory and animal studies have identified several potential biological effects.
