Origin and Etymology of Microplastics

Microplastics, a term that first gained prominence in the early 2000s, refer to plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size. These tiny particles originate from the breakdown of larger plastic debris and from microbeads used in personal care products like exfoliants and toothpaste. The term “microplastic” itself combines “micro,” meaning small, and “plastic,” referring to synthetic polymers that are pervasive in modern consumer goods.

The study of microplastics has roots in marine biology and environmental science. Researchers began noticing the accumulation of these small plastic fragments in oceanic and freshwater environments, leading to the realization that microplastics were a widespread pollutant. A notable figure in this research is Dr. Richard Thompson, who is credited with coining the term “microplastics” in a 2004 study highlighting their prevalence in marine ecosystems (Waterdrop) .

Microplastics are now recognized as a global environmental issue, with studies documenting their presence in nearly every corner of the planet, from the deepest ocean trenches to the highest mountain peaks. This widespread contamination poses significant risks to wildlife and ecosystems, and emerging research suggests potential health impacts on humans as well; to date there is little information about how to remove microplastics from your body, let alone true understandings of the ramifications of having them in our bodies in the first place or at all.

Full Body Microplastics Cleanse Introduction

Microplastics, tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, have become a pervasive contaminant in our environment. They infiltrate our food, water, and even the air we breathe, leading to growing concerns about their impact on human health; thus it becomes crucial to know how to remove microplastics from your body and to actually do it regularly. As these particles accumulate in our bodies, they can cause inflammation, disrupt hormonal functions, and potentially lead to more serious health issues. Given the omnipresence of microplastics, it is now essential to undertake regular cleansing practices to mitigate their effects and maintain overall health.

Microplastics enter our bodies through various sources, including food packaging, bottled water, and even household dust. Once inside, these particles can lodge in organs and tissues, posing risks that we are only beginning to understand. 

If you do think you may have plastic in your blood, or are simply curious, fortunately, there is a test kit, which is actually the 1st ever human microplastics blood test; we’ve been given the honor being able to not only offer it, but at a discount. 

Now, in this article, I’ll explore with you, the necessity of cleansing the body of microplastics, natural methods to support the detoxification/removal and the potential benefits of supplementing these practices with scientifically-sound approaches. Let’s unwrap (I know lol) how to remove microplastics from your body, these natural processes of eliminating microplastics are simple, delicious and leave you with a clean body/system.

Health Impacts of Microplastics:

1. Inflammation and Immune Response: Once ingested or inhaled, microplastics can cause inflammation and an immune response in the body. Studies have shown that these particles can irritate tissues and lead to chronic inflammation, which is a risk factor for various diseases, including cardiovascular disease and cancer.

2. Hormonal Disruption: Microplastics often contain additives like bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, which are known endocrine disruptors. These chemicals can interfere with hormone function, leading to reproductive issues, developmental problems, and an increased risk of hormone-related cancers .

3. Cellular Damage: Research indicates that microplastics can cause cellular damage by inducing oxidative stress. This can lead to cell death, DNA damage, and the potential for mutations, contributing to the development of various diseases.

4. Gut Health: Microplastics can adversely affect gut health by altering the gut microbiota and damaging the intestinal lining. This can lead to issues such as leaky gut syndrome, where toxins and pathogens can enter the bloodstream, causing systemic health problems.

The Science of How To Remove Microplastics From Your Body

Microplastics are composed of synthetic polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyvinyl chloride, among others. These polymers are used in a wide range of products, from packaging and textiles to personal care items and industrial applications. The small size of microplastics allows them to pass through water filtration systems and enter natural water bodies, where they persist due to their resistance to degradation.

How to Naturally Remove Microplastics From Your Body

We would want to focus on how to remove microplastics from your body naturally, as silly as it sounds, we already have enough unnatural things in there. While the complete elimination of microplastics from the body is still an area of ongoing research, there are several natural methods that can help reduce the burden of these contaminants. These methods focus on supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes and microplastics removal, enhancing gut health, and incorporating dietary and lifestyle changes that promote overall well-being.

1. Dietary Changes

Foods Rich in Antioxidants:

• • Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are high in antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress caused by microplastics.

• • Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and arugula are excellent sources of antioxidants and other nutrients that support detoxification.

• • Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds provide healthy fats and antioxidants that aid in reducing inflammation and supporting overall health.

Fiber-Rich Foods:

• • Whole Grains: Oats, quinoa, and brown rice are rich in fiber, which helps bind to toxins and facilitate their removal through the digestive system.

• • Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas not only provide fiber but also support gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.

• • Fruits and Vegetables: Apples, pears, carrots, and broccoli are high in fiber and help maintain a healthy digestive tract.

2. Hydration

Adequate hydration is crucial for supporting the body’s detoxification processes. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins through urine and supports kidney function. Adding a slice of lemon or cucumber to your water can enhance its detoxifying properties.

3. Probiotics and Prebiotics

Probiotics:

• • Yogurt: Contains live cultures that support gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.

• • Kefir: A fermented dairy product rich in probiotics that aid in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.

Prebiotics:

• • Garlic and Onions: These foods contain prebiotic fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria, enhancing their ability to combat harmful substances.

• • Bananas: High in prebiotic fibers that support digestive health and help reduce inflammation.

4. Natural Supplements

Chlorella and Spirulina:

• • These algae are known for their detoxifying properties and ability to bind to heavy metals and other toxins, aiding in their removal from the body.

Milk Thistle:

• • A herb that supports liver function and helps detoxify the body by promoting the elimination of toxins and enhancing antioxidant defenses.

Activated Charcoal:

• • Known for its ability to bind to toxins in the gut and prevent their absorption, activated charcoal can be used occasionally to aid in detoxification.

Bentonite Clay:

• • Bentonite clay is another powerful detoxifier that can bind to toxins and heavy metals in the gut, facilitating their removal from the body.

5. Water Fasting

Water Fasting:

• • Water fasting, where only water is consumed for a specific period, can promote autophagy—a process where the body cleans out damaged cells and regenerates new ones. This can help in the breakdown and elimination of microplastics and other toxins from the body. However, water fasting should be approached with caution and ideally under medical supervision, especially for prolonged periods.

6. Sweating and Exercise

Regular physical activity and practices that induce sweating, such as saunas or hot yoga, can help eliminate toxins through the skin. Exercise also supports overall health by improving circulation and boosting the immune system.

Microplastics Removal Tonic

A delicious way how to remove microplastics from your body is this recipe for a tonic designed to help remove microplastics from your body, leveraging natural detoxifying ingredients:

Ingredients:

• • 1 cup of filtered water
  • 1 tablespoon of chlorella powder
  • 1 tablespoon of bentonite clay
  • 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger juice
  • 1 teaspoon of honey (optional, for taste)

Instructions:

• • Mix Water and Chlorella: In a glass, mix the filtered water with the chlorella powder until well combined.
  • Add Bentonite Clay: Carefully stir in the bentonite clay. Make sure it is fully dissolved to avoid clumping.
  • Incorporate Apple Cider Vinegar and Lemon Juice: Add the apple cider vinegar and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the mixture.
  • Add Ginger Juice: Stir in the fresh ginger juice for added anti-inflammatory benefits.
  • Sweeten (Optional): If desired, add a teaspoon of honey to enhance the flavor.
  • Stir and Drink: Mix well and drink immediately. For best results, consume this tonic on an empty stomach.

Health Benefits:

• • Chlorella: A powerful detoxifier that binds to heavy metals and toxins, aiding in their removal from the body.
  • Bentonite Clay: Known for its ability to bind to toxins and help expel them through the digestive system.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Supports digestion and detoxification, helping to cleanse the liver.
  • Lemon Juice: High in vitamin C and antioxidants, promoting liver function and boosting immunity.
  • Ginger Juice: Contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that support overall health and digestion.

This microplastics removal tonic combines potent natural ingredients to support your body’s detoxification processes and help reduce the burden of microplastics. Enjoy this tonic as part of your regular health routine for optimal benefits.

Biochemical Makeup and Properties:

• • Antioxidant Properties: Microplastics themselves do not have antioxidant properties. In fact, they can reduce the body’s antioxidant defenses, leading to increased oxidative stress.
  • Anti-inflammatory Properties: Similar to antioxidants, microplastics do not possess anti-inflammatory properties. Their presence tends to promote inflammation rather than reduce it.
  • Analgesic Properties: Microplastics do not have analgesic (pain-relieving) properties.
  • Anti-bacterial and Anti-microbial Properties: Microplastics lack anti-bacterial or anti-microbial properties and can even harbor harmful bacteria, contributing to infections and other health issues.
  • Anti-obesity and Anti-diabetic Qualities: There is no evidence to suggest that microplastics have any beneficial effects on obesity or diabetes; rather, they may contribute to metabolic disorders.
  • Cardio-protective Activities: Microplastics do not exhibit cardio-protective properties. Instead, their inflammatory effects can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
  • Possible Chemo-preventative Effects: There is no evidence to support any chemo-preventative effects of microplastics. On the contrary, their potential to cause DNA damage and oxidative stress may increase cancer risk.

Nutritional Breakdown: Microplastics themselves do not provide any nutritional value. They are contaminants that can disrupt the absorption and metabolism of nutrients, leading to deficiencies and other health problems.

Why It’s Detoxifying and Cleansing: Detoxifying the body from microplastics involves promoting the elimination of these particles and their associated toxins. Of the ways how to remove microplastics from your body, it can be achieved through dietary and lifestyle practices that support the body’s natural detoxification pathways, such as enhancing liver function, improving gut health, and maintaining adequate hydration. Consuming foods rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds can help mitigate the harmful effects of microplastics and support overall health.

Supplementing Natural Cleansing Practices with Scientifically-Backed Approaches

In addition to natural methods, there are several scientifically-backed approaches that can enhance the body’s ability to eliminate microplastics. These approaches focus on leveraging advanced detoxification techniques and supplements to support the body’s natural processes more effectively. Everyday thankfully scientists and medical professionals are advancing our knowledge of how to remove microplastics from your body.

1. Advanced Filtration Systems

Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water Filters:

• • Effectiveness: Reverse osmosis systems are highly effective at removing microplastics from drinking water, reducing the number of contaminants that enter the body. Studies have shown that RO systems can eliminate nearly all microplastics from water, providing a clean and safe source of hydration.

Carbon Block Filters:

• • Effectiveness: Carbon block filters are also effective in reducing microplastic contamination. These filters trap particles as water passes through, significantly lowering the amount of microplastics in the filtered water.

Life Straw Go Water Filter Bottle:

• • Effectiveness: The LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle is equipped with a 2-stage filtration system that removes bacteria, parasites, microplastics, chlorine, and other contaminants, making it ideal for hiking, camping, and everyday use. This filtering water bottle effectively removes 99.99% of microplastics; we have an Amazon affiliate relationship where we may earn a commission if you make a purchase.

2. Supplementation with Bioavailable Nutrients

Curcumin:

• • Properties: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can help mitigate the oxidative stress and inflammation caused by microplastics.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

• • Properties: Found in fish oil and flaxseed oil, omega-3 fatty acids support immune function, reduce inflammation, and promote cell membrane health. These benefits are crucial for protecting the body against the adverse effects of microplastics .

Glutathione:

• • Properties: Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that plays a critical role in detoxification. It helps neutralize free radicals and supports the liver’s ability to process and eliminate toxins, including microplastics .

3. Use of Specific Detoxification Protocols

Infrared Saunas:

• • Mechanism: Infrared saunas promote deep sweating, which helps the body expel toxins, including microplastics, through the skin. Regular sessions can enhance detoxification and improve overall health .

Chelation Therapy:

• • Mechanism: Chelation therapy involves the use of agents that bind to heavy metals and toxins, facilitating their removal from the body. While primarily used for heavy metal detoxification, it may also help in reducing the body’s burden of microplastics .

Hydrotherapy:

• • Mechanism: Hydrotherapy, which includes techniques like colon hydrotherapy, can support the removal of toxins from the digestive tract. This method can help cleanse the body of microplastics lodged in the intestines .

4. Incorporating Herbal Remedies

Milk Thistle Extract:

• • Benefits: Milk thistle supports liver health and enhances detoxification pathways, helping the body process and eliminate toxins more effectively .

Dandelion Root:

• • Benefits: Dandelion root acts as a diuretic, supporting kidney function and promoting the elimination of toxins through urine. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties .

Conclusion

The presence of microplastics in our environment and bodies is a growing concern with significant implications for human health. These tiny plastic particles can cause inflammation, disrupt hormonal functions, and lead to cellular damage. Therefore, it is crucial to undertake regular detoxification practices to mitigate their effects and maintain overall health.

Holistic and Natural Approaches

Combining dietary changes, adequate hydration, and the use of probiotics and prebiotics forms the foundation of a natural detoxification strategy. Incorporating fiber-rich foods like whole grains, legumes, and vegetables supports gut health and promotes the elimination of toxins. Hydrating effectively with clean, filtered water enhances kidney function and flushes out contaminants. Probiotics and prebiotics help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a pivotal role in detoxification.

Advanced Detoxification Methods

For those seeking to augment these natural methods, scientifically-backed approaches such as reverse osmosis water filtration, the use of advanced supplements like curcumin and glutathione, and detoxification protocols like infrared saunas and chelation therapy offer additional support. These methods work synergistically to enhance the body’s natural detoxification processes, helping to reduce the burden of microplastics more effectively.

Supplementing with Herbal Remedies

Herbal remedies like milk thistle and dandelion root can further support detoxification by promoting liver and kidney health. These herbs have been used traditionally to enhance the body’s ability to process and eliminate toxins, providing a natural complement to dietary and lifestyle changes.

Comprehensive Strategy for Detoxification

By integrating these various approaches, individuals can develop a comprehensive strategy to cleanse their bodies of microplastics. This multi-faceted approach is not the only known regarding how to remove microplastics from your body, but we do know it not only targets the removal of these contaminants but also supports overall health and well-being; we take it farther and make it delicious. Regular detoxification practices, combined with scientifically-backed methods, provide a robust defense against the pervasive threat of microplastics.

Inspiring Words for a Healthier Future

Embracing a holistic approach to detoxification empowers you to take control of your health. By adopting these practices, you can protect your body from the harmful effects of microplastics and other environmental toxins. Remember, the journey to better health is ongoing, and every step you take towards detoxification brings you closer to a cleaner, healthier, and more vibrant life.

Stay informed on how to remove microplastics from your body, stay proactive, and embrace the power of natural and scientific methods to safeguard your health. Together, we can overcome the challenges posed by microplastics and create a healthier future for ourselves and generations to come.

Combining natural methods with scientifically-backed approaches can provide a comprehensive strategy for reducing the body’s burden of microplastics. With all we know about how to remove microplastics from your body, it seems for now, that by integrating advanced filtration systems, bioavailable nutrient supplements, specific detoxification protocols, and herbal remedies, you can enhance your body’s ability to cleanse itself of these pervasive contaminants.

Regularly implementing these practices not only helps in the detoxification of microplastics but also supports overall health and well-being. As we continue to learn more about the impact of microplastics on human health, staying informed and proactive in our detoxification efforts is essential. Embrace a holistic approach to health by combining natural and scientific methods to protect and rejuvenate your body.

Homage to Efforts in Eliminating Litter and Pollution

A great way to be free of microplastics so that we don’t need to even know how to remove microplastics from your body, is to never get them in our environments in the first place. While focusing on personal health and detoxification from microplastics, it’s crucial to recognize and support broader initiatives aimed at reducing plastic pollution in our environment. Two significant efforts in this realm are The Ocean Cleanup and EarthLush.org, both working towards innovative solutions to tackle the pervasive problem of plastic pollution.

The Ocean Cleanup: The Ocean Cleanup is a non-profit organization dedicated to developing and scaling technologies to rid the oceans of plastic. Their approach involves creating artificial coastlines with U-shaped barriers that guide plastic into a retention zone, making it easier to collect and remove from the ocean. This method has already led to the removal of millions of kilograms of plastic from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch and other marine areas. The organization also deploys Interceptors in rivers, which are the main conduits for plastic waste entering the oceans. These initiatives are part of their broader goal to remove 90% of floating ocean plastic by 2040.

EarthLush.org: EarthLush.org is another notable initiative focusing on the elimination of litter and promotion of sustainability. This platform rewards environmentally friendly behaviors such as litter picking, sustainable purchasing, and involvement in green projects with their digital currency, LUSH. This innovative approach not only incentivizes positive actions but also builds a community dedicated to environmental conservation. EARTHLUSH.org’s efforts highlight the importance of grassroots participation and the potential for technology to drive significant environmental impact.

Supporting these organizations not only helps reduce the environmental burden of plastic pollution but also aligns with personal health goals by contributing to cleaner surroundings. Engaging with and donating to these efforts can amplify their impact and accelerate the journey towards a plastic-free environment.

For more information on these initiatives and how you can contribute, visit The Ocean Cleanup and EARTHLUSH.org. We hold optimism and hope that the self-assembling of the human collective towards reducing and eliminating single use and all plastics is a “when” not an “if”.