Impact of Microplastics on Health: New Study Reveals Risks
New Research Highlights Health Risks of Microplastics
New Delhi, June 2: A recent animal study indicates that tiny plastic particles present in food and drinks could disrupt glucose metabolism and potentially damage organs like the liver.
The research raises alarms about the health implications for individuals consuming microplastics (particles smaller than 5 millimeters) and nanoplastics (less than 100 nanometers), which can infiltrate the food supply and be found in seafood and various other consumables.
Estimates suggest that an individual might ingest between 40,000 to 50,000 microplastic particles annually through their diet, with some projections indicating exposure could reach up to 10 million particles each year.
According to Amy Parkhurst, a doctoral student at the University of California, Davis, "Our findings show that the oral intake of polystyrene nanoplastics leads to glucose intolerance and liver damage, confirming and expanding upon recent studies on nanoplastics in animal models."
The researchers aimed to simulate the oral exposure to nanoparticles typically found in food and beverages. They administered a standard diet to 12-week-old male mice, supplemented with a daily dose of polystyrene nanoparticles.
Polystyrene, a common plastic used in food packaging, was given at a dosage of 60 mg per kilogram of body weight, reflecting human exposure levels and previous studies that indicated health impacts at similar dosages.
Parkhurst noted, "While we cannot account for all plastic exposure in the mice, our study design enabled us to observe dose-related changes, as the group receiving nanoplastics had higher exposure levels."
When compared to a control group that did not receive polystyrene, the mice exposed to nanoplastics showed signs of systemic glucose intolerance and increased alanine aminotransferase levels, a marker of liver injury.
Additionally, the mice consuming polystyrene exhibited heightened gut permeability and elevated endotoxin levels, both of which can lead to liver dysfunction.
Parkhurst emphasized, "These findings necessitate further research to guide policy regarding micro and nanoplastics. Strong scientific evidence is crucial for shaping monitoring strategies and informing regulations."
The results of this study will be presented at the ongoing NUTRITION 2025 conference, the premier annual gathering of the American Society for Nutrition in Orlando.