Microplastics: What You Need to Know and How to Protect Your Health

I’ve always believed that what we put into (and onto) our bodies matters far more than most people realise. Over the years, I’ve helped clients navigate everything from food sensitivities to environmental toxins but one topic that’s been coming up more and more is microplastics.

These tiny plastic particles are now so widespread that they’ve been found in our water, soil, air and even inside the human body. For many of my clients, this feels overwhelming. But the good news is, there are simple, practical ways we can reduce our exposure and support our body’s natural detox systems.

What Are Microplastics?

Microplastics are particles smaller than 5mm that come from the breakdown of larger plastic items or are manufactured as tiny beads for products like cosmetics and cleaning agents. They are small enough to be inhaled, ingested, and absorbed, which is why they’re now turning up in places we never expected.

Why They Matter for Your Health

Research suggests microplastics may:

• Trigger inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.

• Carry endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as BPA and phthalates, which can interfere with hormonal balance.

• Cross cell membranes (particularly when in nano form), potentially affecting the brain, gut, and other organs.

• Be present in the bloodstream and even arterial plaques, with possible links to cardiovascular disease.

A Functional Medicine Approach

In functional medicine, we don’t just treat symptoms – we look for the underlying cause and take steps to remove it where possible. When it comes to microplastics, I recommend a two-pronged approach:

1. Reduce Exposure

• Choose a good water filter instead of relying on bottled water. Make sure it filters out microplastics. My favourite filter is Bibo Water Filter.

• Avoid heating food in plastic containers.

• Swap single-use plastics for glass, stainless steel, or bamboo.

• Choose natural fabrics over synthetic ones.

• Check your skincare and cleaning products for microbeads.

  
  

2. Support the Body’s Detox Pathways

• Eat more fibre (vegetables, whole grains, legumes) to help bind and eliminate toxins.

• Boost antioxidant intake with colourful, polyphenol-rich foods like berries, pomegranate, spinach, and purple cabbage.

• Stay hydrated to support kidney and liver function.

• Include cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, kale) to aid detoxification enzymes.

• Consult a healthcare practitioner who understands detoxing microplastics.

• Find a protocol that binds microplastics and removes them from the system. For example you can use a flat tablespoon of broccoli sprout powder in water or use other binders such as chlorella and zeolite (note: avoid liquid zeolite which has aluminium).

The Bottom Line

We can’t completely avoid microplastics but we can absolutely take steps to reduce our exposure and strengthen our body’s ability to deal with them. In my clinic, I’ve seen how small, consistent changes to diet and lifestyle can make a real difference to how people feel.

If you’re concerned about microplastics or other environmental toxins, we can work together to assess your risk, personalise your nutrition, and create a realistic plan for supporting your health.