Excess weight, thinning hair, eczema—these are just a few of the unpleasant changes in appearance and health caused by microplastics.
These tiny plastic particles, measuring less than 5 millimeters, are not biodegradable. They can linger in the environment for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. They’ve also been found in everyday household items and even in the human body.
Researchers from BusinessWaste, a company specializing in industrial waste disposal, have predicted what the average man and woman might look like as a result of microplastic exposure. To do this, experts employed artificial intelligence to create these chilling images, as reported by the Daily Mail.
“While most studies on the impact of microplastics on humans are still in their early stages, there is a wealth of information about how plastic pollution can affect us,” said Mark Hall, a waste plastic expert and co-author of the study.
According to him, the images created are based on alarming research findings. “But we hope these images will prompt people to think and pay attention to a larger issue. Unfortunately, microplastics are prevalent in the environment; they contaminate everything from the air we breathe to the food we eat,” Mr. Hall added.
To create the images, scientists analyzed three levels of microplastic exposure on the human body: low, medium, and high.
Low Level of Exposure
At this level, our bodies are exposed to microplastics through food, beverages, and the surrounding environment. Most symptoms are internal.
These include minor skin changes (dryness, redness, and irritation), some gastrointestinal disturbances (bloating, stomach discomfort, and digestive issues), and mild fatigue.
Medium Level of Exposure
If you regularly consume processed foods and seafood, as well as frequently use synthetic fabrics, you may be experiencing a medium level of microplastic exposure.
This can manifest as increased skin irritation, signs of premature aging, redness and inflammation of the eyes, mild breathing difficulties (coughing and wheezing), persistent fatigue, and mental fog. Chemicals released from microplastics can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to weight fluctuations and digestive disorders.
High Level of Exposure
Ultimately, a high level indicates prolonged or even constant exposure to microplastics. This is caused by an unfavorable work environment, poor-quality drinking water, and frequent use of synthetic fabrics in daily life and clothing, according to researchers.
High exposure is characterized by chronic skin inflammation, rashes or eczema, and reduced lung function, which can lead to a bluish or purplish tint to the skin. This level of exposure is also associated with microplastics in the brain, causing slowed reflexes, memory issues, confusion, and hand tremors.
Among other side effects are unexpected weight loss or gain and thinning hair.
How to Reduce Microplastic Exposure
Experts recommend using only glass or metal water bottles and never reheating leftovers in plastic containers in the microwave.
Use only wooden cutting boards, avoid plastic utensils, and prefer loose leaf tea over packaged tea.
When shopping, choose products with minimal plastic packaging or none at all. It’s also advisable to use your own bags made from natural fabrics when at the supermarket.