Microplastics Accumulating in Human Brains
The health crisis linked to dementia and cognitive decline
Shocking new research has uncovered something that could send chills down your spine – microplastics, those minuscule fragments polluting our planet, are now being found accumulating in the human brain.
If that’s not enough to make you rethink your daily habits, consider this: people who died with dementia had up to 10 times more plastic in their brains than healthy individuals.
Discover where these dangerous microplastics are lurking, how they affect the brain and what you can do to avoid them.
What are microplastics?
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, typically less than 5 millimetres in diameter, which have become an unavoidable part of our environment. They originate from the breakdown of larger plastic items, synthetic fibres and the microbeads found in personal care products. These minuscule particles have infiltrated every corner of our planet and are difficult to eliminate – and, as research now shows, they’ve even made their way into the human brain.
Where are they found?
- Cosmetics and personal care products containing microbeads (tiny plastic particles), such as exfoliating scrubs, toothpaste and some makeup products, are washed down the drain and end up in the water system.
- Synthetic fabrics. Every time you wash synthetic clothing made from materials like polyester, nylon or acrylic, microplastics are shed into the wastewater. These tiny fibres are too small for water treatment plants to filter out, so they eventually make their way into rivers, oceans, and even back into our drinking water.
- Household dust from everyday items like furniture, carpets and paint can break down into fine particles that accumulate as household dust. These particles can be inhaled or ingested without you even realising it.
- Single-use plastic items like utensils, straws and cling wrap can break down into microplastics over time, especially when exposed to heat or sunlight. These particles can leach into your food, especially when plastic is heated in the microwave or used to store hot meals.
- Tap water and plastic water bottles can contain microplastics from various sources, such as the ones listed above. Plastic water bottles themselves are a significant source of microplastics, both from their manufacturing process and as they degrade over time, leading to concerns about the potential health implications of regular consumption.
- Food sources including seafood, salt, honey and beer. Contamination can occur through environmental exposure or during food processing and packaging, particularly when plastic materials are used.
An alarming new discovery
In early 2024, a study revealed that microplastics had been found in human brain samples, with 24 samples showing an average of about 0.5% plastic by weight. This discovery is particularly shocking because the brain is protected by the blood-brain barrier, a selective shield that usually keeps harmful substances out. The fact that microplastics can cross this barrier suggests they might have far-reaching consequences on our health.
The study, led by researchers at the University of New Mexico, examined brain, liver and kidney tissues from autopsied bodies and found that the brain contained 10 to 20 times more microplastics than the other organs. It also revealed that the concentration of microplastics in brain samples has been increasing over time. Samples from 2024 contained about 50% more plastic than those from 2016, indicating a disturbing trend that mirrors the rise of plastic pollution in the environment.[1]
Microplastics and dementia
What’s even more alarming is the connection between microplastics and dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers examined 12 brain samples from individuals who had died with dementia and found that these brains contained up to 10 times more plastic by weight than those of healthy individuals. This suggests that microplastics could play a significant role in neurological damage and neurodegenerative diseases.
It is believed that microplastics may harm the brain by causing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can lead to the degeneration of neurons and cell damage, contributing to cognitive decline and memory loss.
How microplastic enter the brain
Microplastics can reach the brain in a few ways. When we breathe in air with microplastics, they can travel straight to the brain through the nerves in our nose, skipping the usual barriers. If we ingest microplastics, they can enter our blood through our digestive system and potentially make their way to the brain. Also, if we inhale microplastics, they can enter our blood through the lungs and eventually end up in the brain.
How to reduce exposure to microplastics
While it is impossible to completely avoid microplastics, there are steps you can take to minimise your exposure:
- Cut down on single-use plastics and opt for reusable alternatives like glass or stainless steel.
- Invest in a water filter that can remove microplastics from your drinking water.
- Avoid processed foods which are often contaminated with microplastics.
- Eat a fresh, whole food naturopathic diet that is anti-inflammatory and rich in brain-boosting foods.
- Choose clothing made from natural fibres like cotton or wool instead of synthetic materials, which shed microplastics during washing.
Plastic-free brains
The link between microplastics and cognitive decline, including dementia, highlights the urgent need to be aware of plastic consumption. Although it’s impossible to eliminate microplastics entirely from our lives, taking proactive steps can significantly reduce your exposure.
For more tips on protecting yourself and your family from microplastics and other toxins through diet and lifestyle, take a look at Nutrition for Everyday Living and How to Detox Naturally short courses.
