We live in a world defined by convenience, a reality made possible in large part by the ubiquity of plastic. From the bottle of water you drink to the clothes you wear, plastic is an indispensable part of modern life. Yet, as our reliance on this material has grown, so has a silent, insidious threat: microplastics. These tiny fragments are now found nearly everywhere, from our oceans to the food we eat, and as a result, within our own bodies^1,2. 

With this pervasive issue at hand, it is important that we understand the effects of microplastics on human health and specifically their impact on a critical part of our cells called mitochondria. Learning ways to support our body’s natural detoxification processes and limiting our exposure represents our best option for mitigating the harmful effects of these invasive particles. 

What Are Microplastics and Where Do They Come From? 

Microplastics are plastic particles less than 5mm in length. This is roughly the size of a sesame seed.  They can also be much, much smaller, sometimes even reaching the nanoscale (nanoplastics). Their origins are twofold: 

• Primary Microplastics: These are particles that were manufactured to be small from the start. Examples include microbeads used in personal care products like exfoliators and toothpaste, and plastic pellets (known as nurdles) used as raw material in manufacturing.  

• Secondary Microplastics: This is the most significant source of microplastic pollution. Secondary microplastics are formed when larger plastic items break down via weathering, abrasion or simple wear and tear. 

How Do Microplastics Affect the Human Body? 

Once inside the body, microplastics don’t just pass through harmlessly. They can travel through the bloodstream and accumulate in various organs. Researchers have found them in human blood, lungs, and even the placenta^1,2. 

The primary health concerns associated with microplastic exposure are³: 

• Physical Damage: The tiny, jagged edges of plastic particles can cause physical irritation and inflammation to the lining of the gut and other tissues. 

• Chemical Leaching: Plastics are not inert. They often contain and can absorb a cocktail of toxic chemicals, including phthalates, BPA (Bisphenol A), and heavy metals³. These chemicals can disrupt our endocrine system, interfere with hormones, and contribute to chronic inflammation. 

• Oxidative Stress: As the body’s immune system tries to neutralize these foreign invaders, it can trigger a response that leads to excessive oxidative stress⁴. This is an imbalance between our protective antioxidant reserves and an abundance of free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage cells), which leads to cellular damage and is a key factor in the development of many chronic diseases. 

The combined effect of this physical and chemical burden places a significant strain on our body’s natural detoxification organs, particularly the liver and kidneys. 

The Mitochondria Connection: How Do Microplastics Affect Our Mitochondria?   

While the general effects of microplastics are alarming, a deeper dive into their impact reveals a more profound threat: their effect on our mitochondria^4,5. 

Mitochondria are often called the “powerhouses of the cell” because their primary function is to generate cellular energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) through a process called cellular respiration. They are absolutely critical for the function of every cell, tissue, and organ in the body. 

Here’s how microplastics are thought to affect mitochondrial function: 

• Physical Interaction and Damage: Studies show that microplastics and even smaller nanoplastics can be internalized by cells and can physically interact with the mitochondria themselves. This can cause structural damage to the mitochondrial membranes, disrupting mitochondrial energy production⁵. 

• Increasing Oxidative Stress: This is a major mechanism of toxicity. Microplastic particles have been shown to trigger a significant increase in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within the mitochondria^4,5. While some ROS are a natural byproduct of energy production, overproduction leads to oxidative stress, which can damage mitochondrial DNA, proteins, and lipids. This is a vicious cycle: damaged mitochondria produce more ROS, which causes more damage and less energy production. 

• Altering Mitochondrial Dynamics: Mitochondria are not static; they constantly fuse and divide in a process known as mitochondrial dynamics. This process is essential for maintaining a healthy mitochondrial network. Research suggests that microplastics may interfere with these dynamics, leading to a fragmented and dysfunctional mitochondrial network⁴. Disruption of these networks impacts multiple systems within the body. 

• Impairing Energy Production (ATP): As a direct result of the damage and stress, microplastics can impair the efficiency of the mitochondrial electron transport chain, the final step of cellular respiration where ATP is produced⁵. The consequence is reduced cellular energy, which can manifest as fatigue, brain fog, and a general decline in overall health. 

In essence, microplastics attack the very core of our cellular energy production, a process that is fundamental to life itself^4,5. This is a critical area of concern, as mitochondrial dysfunction is linked to the development and progression of numerous health concerns. 

How Do You Support Your Body’s Detoxification Pathways and Limit the Potential Health Effects of Microplastics in Our Day-to-Day Life? 

Given the inescapable nature of microplastic exposure, living a plastic-free life is not practical.  Rather, a comprehensive approach should involve minimizing exposure where you can (e.g., using glass food containers, and filtering your drinking water) while simultaneously bolstering your body’s natural defense systems. 

This is where targeted nutritional support comes into play by enhancing the body’s natural ability to excrete toxins and mitigate the damage they cause. 

1. Binding and Elimination

One of the most effective strategies for detoxification is to use binders, which are substances that can “bind” to toxins in the gut and prevent them from being reabsorbed into the bloodstream. This facilitates their safe elimination through the digestive tract. 

Some well-known binders include humic and fulvic acid, activated charcoal, and zeolite, which can bind to a variety of environmental toxins, including those associated with microplastics, and facilitate their removal from the GI tract. 

2. Enhancing Cellular Detoxification and Antioxidant Action

The master antioxidant in the body is glutathione. It’s the body’s primary defense against oxidative stress and plays a crucial role in Phase II liver detoxification, where toxins are neutralized and made water-soluble for excretion. Microplastic exposure depletes glutathione, leaving the body vulnerable⁴.   

Standard oral glutathione supplements have a low absorption rate. It is important that you look for a liposomal form that has been clinically researched to demonstrate absorption. Many companies market their products as “liposomal”, but this alone does not ensure proper intracellular absorption.  This is why it is critical to look for formulas backed by peer reviewed published clinicalresearch. Replenishing and increasing intracellular glutathione helps to: 

• Neutralize Free Radicals: It directly combats the oxidative stress caused by microplastics and other toxins. 

• Support Liver Detoxification: It ensures the liver has the resources it needs to process and eliminate toxins. 

• Fortify the Immune System: It boosts the function of natural killer (NK) cells, which are crucial for immune health. 

3. Mitochondrial Support

To counter the direct damage that microplastics inflict on mitochondria, it’s essential to provide these cellular powerhouses with the nutrients they need to function optimally. 

A comprehensive approach to mitochondrial support works best.  Supporting the Krebs cycle alone is not enough, especially when the mitochondrial membrane is damaged by free radicals.  Instead, you should look to support these key areas of mitochondrial health. 

• Membrane Repair: Phospholipids can repair and strengthen the mitochondrial membrane, critical for healthy mitochondrial function. 

• Energy Production: Cofactors and nutrients like CoQ10, PQQ, and R-Lipoic Acid, are essential for efficient ATP production. 

• Antioxidant Support: Protect mitochondria by reducing the oxidative stress that damages and impairs mitochondrial function^4,5. 

4. Limiting Exposure

Beyond supplements, a proactive and mindful approach to your daily life can reduce your exposure to microplastics and support your body’s resilience. Since microplastics are primarily ingested and inhaled, the most effective strategies focus on limiting their presence in your food, water, and air.  Here are some simple ways to reduce your exposure to microplastics. 

• Ditch Plastic Food Storage: Heat and oil cause plastic to leach chemicals and shed microplastics more readily. Avoid heating and storing food in plastic containers, instead opt for glass, ceramic, or stainless steel. 

• Rethink Your Cookware: Non-stick pans can release microplastics when scratched or heated. Opt for cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic cookware. Replace plastic spatulas and cutting boards with wooden or metal alternatives. 

• Be Mindful of Your Beverages: Bottled water, even in glass bottles, can contain thousands of microplastic particles. Choose filtered tap water instead. For tea drinkers, switch from tea bags to loose-leaf tea.  

• Improve Indoor Air Quality: Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter, as it is designed to trap the smallest particles. Invest in an Air Purifier with a HEPA filter can significantly reduce the concentration of airborne microplastics in your home. 

While completely eliminating microplastics is impossible, these strategies empower you to take control of your environment and help reduce your daily exposure, which in turn lessens the burden on your body’s natural detoxification systems. 

Conclusion: A Proactive Approach to a Modern Problem 

Microplastic pollution is a complex and daunting issue, but we are not powerless in the face of it. By understanding where these particles come from and how they impact our health, particularly by disrupting our vital mitochondrial function^4,5, we can be proactive in our defense. 

While minimizing exposure is the first line of defense, supporting our body’s natural detoxification processes is the essential next step.  By choosing supplements shown to support cellular health, reduce free radicals (antioxidants), and promote binding and elimination of toxins from the GI tract, we can help our bodies navigate this modern challenge and reclaim our cellular vitality. 

References 

1. Leslie HA et al. (2022).
   Discovery and quantification of plastic particle pollution in human blood.
   Environment International, 163, 107199. 

1. Ragusa A et al. (2021).
   Plasticenta: First evidence of microplastics in human placenta.
   Environment International, 146, 106274. 

1. Wright SL, Kelly FJ (2017).
   Plastic and human health: a micro issue?
   Environmental Science & Technology, 51(12), 6634–6647. 

1. Li B et al. (2020).
   Molecular mechanisms of microplastics-induced toxicity.
   Environmental Pollution, 261, 114213. 

1. Wang Y et al. (2020).
   Microplastics induce oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage.
   Science of the Total Environment, 726, 138504.