Tiny plastic particles have infiltrated nearly every aspect of modern life, from the food we eat to the water we drink and even the air we breathe.

But beyond their environmental impact, researchers are uncovering alarming health risks linked to microplastics, including inflammation, hormonal disruption, and potential long-term effects on major organs. 

How Microplastics Enter Our Bodies 

These tiny plastic particles, smaller than a grain of sand, can be found in seafood, drinking water, fresh produce, and even household items like plastic food containers and cutting boards. Every year, the average person ingests or inhales between 78,000 and 211,000 microplastic particles. 

“Microplastics are present in all of us,” says Lipisha Agarwal, MBBS, a fellow at University of Vermont Medical Center’s Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine program. “Particles smaller than the width of a single human hair can penetrate deep into our bodies, including our lungs.” 

What Microplastics Do to Your Body 

Scientists are still uncovering the full health implications, but early research suggests microplastics could contribute to heart disease, stroke, and chronic inflammation. Some also contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), which can interfere with hormones, potentially impacting fertility, immune function, and even increasing cancer risk. 

“There’s an ongoing discussion about whether microplastics contribute to autoimmune diseases, developmental disorders, and even mood disorders,” explains Marianna Worczak, MD, a primary care physician at UVM Health – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital. 

Ways to Reduce Your Microplastic Exposure 

While microplastics are nearly impossible to avoid completely, there are steps you can take to limit your exposure: 

• Choose plastic-free alternatives. Swap plastic food storage for glass or stainless steel and avoid plastic utensils.
• Filter your drinking water. Install a high-quality filtration system, such as reverse osmosis, to remove microplastics from tap water.
• Wash your hands often. Our hands come into contact with plastic all day, and washing them frequently can reduce accidental ingestion.
• Wear natural fibers. Choose cotton, wool, or linen over synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon, which shed plastic particles.
• Skip single-use plastics. Carry reusable straws, bags, and utensils to cut down on plastic waste.
• Check your personal care products. Some exfoliating scrubs and toothpastes contain microbeads—a form of microplastic. Look for “microbead-free” labels. 

Taking small steps to reduce your plastic use isn’t just good for the planet—it may also help protect your health. 

“You can’t always reverse the damage from microplastics,” says Dr. Worczak, “but reducing your exposure can make a real difference.”