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What we know about microplastics

A plastic water bottle.

March 25, 2024—You might have seen the headlines: A new study found that a liter of bottled water contains about 240,000 tiny pieces of plastic—far more than previously measured. You might be wondering what that means for your health.

High-tech tools led to more accurate results

According to the National Institutes of Health, researchers found 10 to 100 times more plastic particles in three widely available brands of bottled water than past studies. The water contained particles of seven types of plastic, including the plastic used to make the water bottles themselves.

It's important to know that this doesn't mean the actual number of plastic particles in water bottles has increased. The researchers were using a new method to detect microplastics and nanoplastics—tiny pieces of plastic. That new technology led to better detection of the particles that were already there.

Plastic particles are everywhere

The truth is, plastic particles aren't just found in bottled water. They've been found deep in the ocean, in the food supply and even in human lung tissue.

The reason? Plastics (and plastic waste) break down over time, forming pieces too small to detect without special equipment. Microplastics, which are plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, are small enough to be absorbed, ingested or inhaled into the human body. Nanoplastics are even smaller—less than 1 micrometer.

Plastic particles are linked to health risks

The research into microplastics is ongoing. But the latest science is starting to link microplastic exposure to various health problems, including:

  • Obesity. Some research suggests that microplastics may negatively affect metabolism and encourage the growth of fat cells.
  • Lung problems. Microplastics may cause inflammation and oxidative stress. This can cause coughing, sneezing and shortness of breath.
  • Heart diseases. Air pollution and particles in the air have been linked to heart problems.

It's important to remember that more studies are needed to fully understand the risks of microplastics.

Reducing your exposure

Because microplastics are everywhere, including in the air and drinking water, it's not possible to avoid them. Still, there some things you can do to cut down your exposure:

  • Avoid single-use plastics. These throwaway items just add more fuel to the fire. Use reusable options when you can.
  • Choose glass, stainless steel and ceramic food containers and water bottles.
  • Shop with reusable tote bags.
  • Think about your clothes. Pick natural fibers over synthetic ones to reduce the shedding of microplastics during washing and wearing.

Plastic particles aren't the only way your environment can affect your health. Learn more—and find out what you can do to help keep your family healthy—in our Environmental Health topic center.

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