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Research Reveals Microplastics In The Brain — Here's What To Do About It

Author:

Ava Durgin

February 27, 2025

Assistant Health Editor

By Ava Durgin

Assistant Health Editor

Ava Durgin is the Assistant Health Editor at mindbodygreen. She is a recent graduate from Duke University where she received a B.A. in Global Health and Psychology. In her previous work, Ava served as the Patient Education Lead for Duke Hospital affiliated programs, focusing on combating food insecurity and childhood obesity.

Image by Mauro Grigollo / Stocksy

February 27, 2025

For years, scientists have sounded the alarm on microplastics—tiny plastic particles found in our food, water, air, and even our blood. But now, groundbreaking research has confirmed something even more alarming: These plastic fragments are accumulating in the human brain at higher levels than ever recorded.

A recent study published in Nature Medicine1 analyzed postmortem brain samples from 2016 and 2024, revealing a 50% increase in microplastic concentrations over just eight years.

The findings raise critical questions about the long-term effects of plastic exposure on brain health—and what we can do to minimize our risk.

How plastic ends up in the brain

Microplastics and even smaller nanoplastics (which can be as tiny as one nanometer in diameter) are everywhere. They come from degraded plastic products, synthetic textiles, food packaging, and even personal care products. Because of their microscopic size, they are easily inhaled or ingested.

Until recently, it was unclear whether these particles could breach the body's most protective barrier: the blood-brain barrier. This study 1 confirms that not only can microplastics reach the brain, but they are accumulating there at concerning levels.

The predominant type of plastic found? Polyethylene—the same material used in plastic bags, bottles, and food wraps.

What are the health implications?

The full effects of plastic in the brain remain uncertain, but current research points to potential dangers:

Neuroinflammation & cognitive decline: Studies suggest that microplastics can trigger inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, potentially contributing to neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. In this study, individuals with dementia had even higher concentrations of microplastics in their brain tissue. While causation hasn't been established, the correlation raises serious concerns.
Vascular damage: Researchers found microplastics embedded in cerebrovascular walls, which could increase the risk of stroke and other vascular diseases. Plastic particles in the bloodstream have already been linked to cardiovascular risks, and their presence in the brain's blood vessels may exacerbate these issues.
Disruption of cellular function: Studies suggest that nanoplastics can interfere with cell signaling 2, potentially disrupting neurotransmission and leading to cognitive impairments.

How to reduce your exposure

Completely avoiding plastic is nearly impossible, but small, intentional swaps can help minimize your exposure:

Filter your water: Tap and bottled water contain microplastics, but high-quality filters (such as reverse osmosis systems) can significantly reduce contamination.
Upgrade your kitchen tools: Swap plastic utensils and cutting boards for stainless steel, solid wood, bamboo, or silicone—materials that are more durable and free from harmful additives.
Support plastic-free brands: Choose companies that prioritize sustainable, plastic-free packaging.
Cook whole grains yourself: Instant rice and prepackaged grains often contain plastic-related chemicals from processing—buy whole grains and rinse them before cooking.
Choose whole proteins: Heavily processed protein sources can contain plastic-related additives, so opt for fresh fish, poultry, and legumes.
Check your salt: Many salts contain microplastics—look for brands that test and certify their products as microplastic-free.
Brew loose-leaf tea: Many tea bags contain plastic fibers that can leach into hot water. Switching to loose-leaf tea reduces this exposure.

The takeaway

This study confirms that plastic pollution isn't just an environmental crisis—it's a human health crisis. With microplastics infiltrating the most delicate and vital organs, the long-term consequences could be profound.

While research continues to unravel the full extent of the damage, reducing exposure now is the best way to protect brain health in the years to come.