Recently, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) published a report titled “Impact of Microplastics and Nanoplastics on Human Health.” It emphasized the significant effects of microplastics and nanoplastics on gut microbiomes.
Gut microbiome is the array of microorganisms, inclusive of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, and their genetic material that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Playing a key role in nutrient and mineral absorption, these organisms also aid in the production of enzymes, vitamins, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).
Damaging Consequences of Plastic Exposure
Over time, exposure to plastic has been identified as a cause for intestinal inflammation and gut dysbiosis—an imbalance in bacterial composition, changes in bacterial activities or distribution within the gut. Dysbiosis can further lead to severe health issues.
There is also increasing evidence of microplastics being deposited in different parts of the human body, such as lung tissue, placenta, and blood, as a result of their presence in common food items and water.
Environment and Metabolic Impacts of Plastic
Plastics, specifically those of hydrophobic nature, have the potential to absorb hydrophobic chemicals or persistent organic pollutants from the environment. For instance, polychlorinated biphenyls, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and dichloro diphenyl trichloroethane can be readily adsorbed.
Moreover, microplastic accumulation in the gut can lead to changes in the mucosal structure, oxidative stress, immune response, and even altered metabolism. The physical abrasion of microplastic can induce satiety, reduce food consumption, and eventually cause weight loss. Liver function and metabolism can also be affected.
Understanding Microplastics
Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than five millimeters in diameter, posing a significant threat to aquatic life and our oceans. They typically form as a result of larger plastics breaking down under influences like UV radiation, wind, and ocean currents.
Microplastics can be classified into two categories: primary and secondary. Primary microplastics are small particles purposely designed for commercial use, like microbeads found in personal care products, plastic pellets, and plastic fibres. On the other hand, secondary microplastics emerge from the breakdown of larger plastics, like water bottles, due to environmental exposure.
Importance of the Findings
The FAO report is particularly significant as it brings attention to the profound effects of microplastics on gut microbiomes and human health. Understanding these impacts is critical for devising effective strategies to mitigate the long-term consequences of plastic exposure on human health and the environment.
An exam question from the UPSC Civil Services Exam in 2019 illustrates the growing concern about this issue: “Why is there a great concern about the ‘microbeads’ that are released into the environment? (a) They are considered harmful to marine ecosystems. (b) They are considered to cause skin cancer in children. (c) They are small enough to be absorbed by crop plants in irrigated fields. (d) They are often found to be used as food adulterants. The correct answer is(a).”
Last Modified: February 22, 2024