Your health is one of your most valuable assets, influencing every aspect of your life.
In today's world, maintaining good health can be challenging due to microplastics. These tiny plastic particles have infiltrated many areas of daily life, from the food we eat and the water we drink to the clothes we wear. Even small, everyday actions like heating food in plastic containers or wearing polyester clothing can expose you to microplastics and harmful chemicals, potentially impacting your overall health. Understanding these risks allows you to make more informed choices to protect your body and well-being.
Heating Food and Drinks in Plastic
When food or drinks are heated in plastic containers, particularly in a microwave, the heat can cause the plastic to break down and release microplastics, along with potentially harmful chemicals, into the food or drink.
How They Enter Our Bodies:
- Leaching of Chemicals and Microplastics: The heat can cause chemicals and microplastics to leak into the food or drinks we consume. These particles and chemicals can enter our digestive system and potentially move into our bloodstream, accumulating in various parts of our body.
Health Impacts:
- Endocrine Disruption: Chemicals like BPA and phthalates can act as endocrine disruptors, mimicking or interfering with the body’s hormones, leading to potential issues with reproduction, metabolism, and development.
- Inflammation and Toxicity: Ingested microplastics may cause inflammation in the digestive system, and some studies suggest they could carry toxic substances that could lead to cellular damage or other health issues.
Wearing Polyester and Skin Absorption
Polyester is a type of synthetic fabric made from plastic fibers. As we wear polyester clothing, tiny fibers can shed from the fabric due to friction, washing, and wear and tear. These microfibers can be inhaled or contacted with the skin, causing potential health risks.
How They Enter Our Bodies:
- Skin Absorption: Though the skin is a relatively effective barrier, certain chemicals used in the production of polyester (like dyes, flame retardants etc.) can be absorbed through the skin. Microplastics are less likely to be absorbed through intact skin but can still contact the skin and potentially cause irritation.
- Inhalation: Microfibers can be released into the air and inhaled, leading to potential respiratory issues.
Health Impacts:
- Skin Irritation: Direct contact with microplastics or the chemicals they contain can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people.
- Respiratory Issues: Inhalation of microfibers can contribute to respiratory issues, potentially leading to inflammation or other lung-related problems.
- Toxic Exposure: The chemicals associated with polyester can include toxins that, when absorbed through the skin or inhaled, may contribute to long-term health issues, such as hormone disruption or even cancer.
Preventive Measures:
- For Heating Food and Drinks: Use glass or ceramic containers instead of plastic when heating food or drinks. Avoid microwaving food in plastic wrap or containers labeled as not microwave-safe.
- For Wearing Polyester: Consider wearing natural fibers like cotton, wool, or linen, especially in clothing that comes into direct contact with your skin.
Understanding these risks can help us make more informed choices about how we interact with plastics in our everyday lives. Which is why here at HiHandmade aim to be more conscious in everyday life and helping others by creating 100% cotton products that add value to your day to day lives and not take away.
