From the Battlefield to the Home Front

During military service, exposure to microplastics can be surprisingly high due to the extensive use of plastic materials in various aspects of military life. Microplastics are pervasive from plastic water bottles and food packaging to synthetic uniforms and equipment. Training environments and operational settings often involve disposable plastic items, which break down into microplastics. The intense physical activities and harsh conditions faced can accelerate degradation, increasing the likelihood of inhaling or ingesting these tiny particles. This exposure may have long-term health impacts, making it crucial for veterans to remain vigilant and take proactive health steps.

As a Primal Health Coach and Air Force veteran, I am committed to empowering individuals to take control of their health. Microplastics are not just an environmental issue but infiltrate our bodies, potentially affecting health outcomes including weight gain and loss. This article explores what microplastics are, their sources, health impacts, and practical ways to reduce your exposure.

What Are Microplastics?

Microplastics are tiny particles less than 5mm in diameter, originating from breakdown of larger plastics, microbeads, and synthetic fibers. Found widely in the environment, water, air and food supplies, they pose emerging health concerns.

Recent Studies on Microplastics and Health

Studies have found microplastics in human stool, showing ingestion and possible accumulation. They carry harmful chemicals potentially causing inflammation. Exposure may disrupt endocrine function contributing to weight and metabolic issues.

Sources of Microplastics

• Water: Both bottled and tap water contain microplastics.
• Food: Microplastics found in seafood, salt, honey, fruits and vegetables.
• Containers & Wrappers: Plastic packaging can leach microplastics especially when heated or stressed.
• Home Use: Plastic wraps, containers, and bags break down with washing, microwaving, or freezing, releasing microplastics.
• Cooking Utensils: Plastic utensils shed microplastics when exposed to heat or friction in cooking.

Impact in Schools and Hospitals

Children and patients are exposed through plastic containers etc., posing health and environmental risks.

Practical Ways to Reduce Exposure

1. Switch to glass or stainless steel containers to avoid plastic degradation.
2. Use silicone lids/wraps instead of plastic.
3. Opt for wooden, bamboo, or metal utensils instead of plastic.
4. Use water filters that remove microplastics (reverse osmosis, activated carbon).
5. Minimize processed foods to reduce plastic packaging consumption.
6. Use air purifiers to lower airborne microplastics.
7. Reduce synthetic clothing that shed fibers.
8. Advocate eco-friendly replacements in schools and hospitals.
9. Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers; prefer glass/ceramic.

Conclusion

The presence of microplastics in our bodies is a growing health concern. While natural elimination is limited, practical steps effectively reduce exposure and health risks. Informed choices about water, food, and household items protect your well-being and environment.

References:

• Heindel, J. J., et al. (2017). Endocrine disruptors and obesity. Obesity Reviews.
• Prata, J. C., et al. (2020). Environmental exposure to microplastics. Science of the Total Environment.
• Schwabl, P., et al. (2021). Detection of microplastics in human stool. Annals of Internal Medicine.
• Zhang, H., et al. (2020). Microplastics in food. Environmental Pollution.
• Xu, X., et al. (2021). Microplastics in cooking utensils. Journal of Hazardous Materials.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward optimal health and want to learn more about nourishing your body the primal way, I’m here to guide you. Book a free consultation with me today and let’s tailor your personalized health plan. Your vibrant best self awaits!