Скачать или смотреть Can We Detox Microplastics From Our Body? A Q&A with Microplastics Expert Dana Zhaxylykova

I sat down with the super informative Dana to ask her all your questions about microplastics!

Find Dana on Instagram to keep up to date and learn more about microplastics:   / dankazh  

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
3:08 What is a microplastic?
4:00 Health risks of microplastics?
7:22 Are some more dangerous than others?
10:08 What are the biggest sources of microplastics?
15:30 What's Dana's most asked question?
17:18 Can we detox from microplastics?
21:10 Is any country addressing it well?
23:30 Can our planet naturally deal with it?
27:00 How is the natural world being affected?
30:24 Recap of what we can do next, what keeps Dana positive?

Below I’ve highlighted the key topics & takeaways from the conversation, and what actions you can take to combat microplastics!

What Are Microplastics?
Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5mm.
They are found everywhere, from oceans to air, and even in human bodies.

Health Risks of Microplastics
-The research is still developing, but early studies indicate risks such as: Respiratory issues (from inhalation), Cardiovascular diseases (as microplastics enter the bloodstream), Brain and cognitive issues (microplastics found in brain samples, linked to dementia).
Microplastics can kill cells and carry toxic chemicals that may affect health.

Biggest Sources of Microplastics in Daily Life
Kitchenware: Plastic containers, plastic water bottles, tea bags, microwaving food in plastic.
Personal care products: Shampoos, creams, toothpaste with microplastic additives.
Textiles: Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic release microplastics.
Tap water and air: Microplastics are airborne and found in drinking water.

Can We Detox from Microplastics?
No proven way to remove all microplastics from the body.
Some research suggests that fermented foods (like yogurt and pickles) may help reduce toxicity.
Donating blood and sweating (sauna, exercise) can reduce some microplastic burden temporarily.
Prevention is key—limiting exposure is more effective than trying to detox.

How to Reduce Exposure to Microplastics?
Prioritize reducing plastic in food and drink storage (e.g., avoid plastic containers, use glass/stainless steel).
Use natural textiles (cotton, wool, linen) instead of synthetic clothing and bedding.
Choose microplastic-free personal care products.
Install water filters to remove microplastics from tap water.
Reduce reliance on plastic-packaged foods and drinks.

What Needs to Change?
Lack of regulation: Currently, no country regulates microplastic discharge into the environment.
Some regulations exist, like banning plastic glitter (EU) and banning microplastics in cosmetics (US, New Zealand, Canada).
Advocating for stronger regulations on plastic production and discharge is crucial.

Impact on Wildlife & Ecosystems
99% of seafood is contaminated with microplastics.
Many animals die from malnutrition after ingesting plastic.
Some bacteria, fungi, and worms show potential in breaking down microplastics, but solutions are still in early research.

Checklist: How to Take Action Against Microplastics

✅ In Your Kitchen:

Switch to glass or stainless steel containers.

Avoid plastic tea bags (choose loose-leaf tea or organic tea bags).

Stop microwaving food in plastic.

Drink from reusable stainless steel or glass bottles instead of plastic ones.

✅ In Personal Care:

Check labels for microplastic ingredients in shampoos, toothpaste, and skincare.

Use shampoo bars and natural-based products (avoid liquid shampoos in plastic packaging).

Switch to bamboo toothbrushes instead of plastic.

✅ In Clothing & Textiles:

Choose organic cotton, wool, or linen over polyester and nylon.

Wash synthetic fabrics less frequently and use a Guppyfriend bag or microfiber filter in washing machines.

Invest in high-quality, long-lasting clothing to reduce microfiber shedding.

✅ Water & Air Quality:

Install a water filter that can remove microplastics.

Use HEPA filters in your home to trap airborne microplastics.

✅ Advocacy & Awareness:

Support plastic regulations (sign petitions, contact policymakers).

Participate in clean-up efforts (beaches, parks, rivers).

Educate others about microplastics and share solutions.