Scientists Reveal Implications of Microplastics on the Human Brain

Research points to the potential health repercussions of microplastics. Now, a study seeks to explain how these nanoparticles enter the human brain (of which up to a “spoonful” may be present!) and the potential impact they may have on our overall health.

Microplastics are plastic particles that are smaller than five millimeters in size, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Four papers published in the May issue of the journal Brain Medicine explain how research suggests that microplastics from ultra-processed foods may build up in the brain. Those microplastics could be a factor in rising rates of depression, dementia, and other mental health disorders around the world, the researchers argue.