Many people are discussing microplastics—tiny plastic particles less than five millimeters in diameter—and their pervasive presence in the environment. University of New Mexico Health Sciences researchers have discovered microplastics in various parts of the human body, including the brain, testicular tissue, and even the womb. Despite the alarming findings, a researcher at the UNM College of Population Health believes there are measures individuals can take to reduce exposure to microplastics.

Plastics are ubiquitous in the environment. Throughout their lifecycle—from extraction of oil and gas to manufacturing and disposal—plastics release toxic chemicals. Single-use plastics, typically used for only 12 minutes before being discarded, persist in landfills and waterways for generations, breaking down into microplastics that enter our food chain.

Microplastics are also prevalent in oceans, lakes, and streams. They can become so small and light that they attach to dust particles and travel through the atmosphere via wind and rain. Water treatment plants, many built before microplastics research began, cannot filter out these tiny particles.

Human exposure to microplastics occurs through ingestion of contaminated food and water, inhalation of airborne particles, and dermal contact. Potential health risks include oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, altered immune functions, endocrine disruptions, and an increased risk of heart disease.

Claudia Pratesi, PhD from the UNM College of Population Health has been studying environmental plastics for a decade. She highlighted recent studies indicating that individuals can ingest up to five grams of microplastics per week depending on diet and lifestyle—equivalent to the weight of a credit card.

Pratesi suggests several strategies to reduce exposure:

- **Drink Tap Water**: Opt for tap water over bottled water when possible. Use a water filter or reverse osmosis system to remove some plastics.

- **Avoid Heating Plastics**: Do not microwave food or drinks in plastic containers as heating causes chemicals to leach into foods. Use glass or ceramic containers instead.

- **Choose Safe Storage**: Store food in glass, ceramic or stainless-steel containers; avoid plastic lids touching food.

- **Eat Whole Foods**: Consume fresh foods made from scratch rather than highly processed foods more likely exposed to plastic during processing.

- **Buy Local**: Purchase from local producers and avoid plastic-wrapped meat products.

Additionally, she advises avoiding plastics labeled with recycling codes 3 (phthalates), 6 (styrene), and 7 (bisphenols A, S, F), which contain harmful chemicals.

“Remember, we vote with our dollar,” Pratesi said. “If we continue to buy plastic containers and use plastic bags without seeking non-toxic alternatives, corporations will keep producing more plastic.”

Pratesi emphasizes spreading awareness about microplastic dangers and finding equitable solutions accessible to all socioeconomic groups. She calls for policy changes aimed at reducing plastic use, improving waste management practices, and protecting vulnerable populations from harmful pollutants like microplastics.