From chewing gum to teabags, microplastics have already been discovered in a range of everyday items.
These tiny pieces of plastic measure less than five millimeters long and are not biodegradable – meaning they last for hundreds, if not thousands of years.
Now, shocking images have revealed the terrifying effects these tiny pieces of plastic could be having on our bodies.
Experts from BusinessWaste.co.uk have used AI to produce images predicting how the average man and woman could look after exposure to microplastics.
From weight gain and hair thinning to eczema-like rashes and heavy fatigue, the images paint a bleak picture for our future.
‘While much of the research into the effects of microplastics on humans is in the early stages, it’s clear to see there are many worrying signs of how this pollution might affect us,’ said Mark Hall, plastic waste expert at BusinessWaste.co.uk.
‘The imagery we have generated is based on the findings of these studies and shows alarming results.
‘But we hope the images will make people sit up and pay attention to the larger issue.’
Experts from BusinessWaste.co.uk have used AI to produce images predicting how the average man and woman could look after exposure to microplastics
These tiny pieces of plastic measure less than five millimeters long and are not biodegradable – meaning they last for hundreds, if not thousands of years (stock image)
To create the images, the researchers analysed studies on the effects low-, mid-, and high-exposure to microplastics.
‘Unfortunately, microplastics are abundant in our environment, contaminating everything from the air we breathe to the food we eat,’ Mr Hall added.
‘While you can reduce your exposure to certain products, we’ll never fully face the problem until we begin to tackle plastic waste as a larger issue, and look to reduce our reliance on the material.’
Low-exposure
Low-exposure to microplastics includes through food, drink, and the general environment.
At this level, most symptoms would be internal, according to the experts.
Mild skin changes could include dryness, redness, and irritation, caused by microplastics interacting with endocrine disruptors.
You may also experience some gut changes, including bloating, stomach discomfot, and irregular digestion.
Skin issues would include chronic skin inflammation, rashes, or eczema-like conditions, while reduced lung function could lead to blue or purplish skin tones
In addition, low-level inflammation could lead to mild fatigue.
Mid-exposure
If you regularly consume processed foods or seafood, or often use synthetic fabrics, you probably have mid-exposure to microplastics.
These levels could present as increased levels of skin irritation, alongside signs of premature ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles.
Your eyes could be red and irritated, while you may experience mild breathing difficulties such as coughing and wheezing, from exposure to microplastics in the air.
Meanwhile, chemicals leaching from the microplastics could disrupt your hormones, leading to weight fluctuation and digestive discomfort.
Finally, you may experience more persistant fatigue and brain fog.
High-exposure
Microplastics in the brain could lead to slower reflexes, memory problems, and mental confusion, as well as potential hand tremors
Finally, a high level of exposure may be experienced by people with prolonged and consistent exposure to microplastics.
‘It could be through their work environment, due to poor quality drinking water, and the repeated use of synthetic fabrics in the home and clothing,’ the experts explained.
Skin issues would include chronic skin inflammation, rashes, or eczema-like conditions, while reduced lung function could lead to blue or purplish skin tones.
Microplastics in the brain could lead to slower reflexes, memory problems, and mental confusion, as well as potential hand tremors.
Other nasty side effects coudl include unexplained weight loss or gain, hair thinning, and skin discoloration.
How to reduce your exposure to microplastics
Thankfully, there are several simple switches you can make to avoid ingesting an excessive amount of the pesky particles.
Dana Zhaxylykova, a microplastics researcher at Nazarbayev University, recently posted a video on Instagram detailing the switches.
‘Microplastics are everywhere and recently microplastic was found in every organ of tested people! And a lot of them come from the daily objects we use like plastic water bottles or “paper” cups,’ she said.
‘Here i gathered some of the tips about them in your diet and how many microplastics you save from each swap.’
The expert advises only using glass or metal water bottles, and never microwaving leftovers in plastic containers.
She also says you should only use wooden chopping boards, ditch plastic utensils, avoid ‘paper’ cups and plates, and opt for loose-leaf tea over teabags.
Finally, Ms Zhaxylykova suggests buying products with little to no plastic packaging, and carrying your own bags.