Microplastics are tiny, yet they’re making their way into our bodies, raising significant concerns about health risks.
Researchers now suggest that existing hemofiltration techniques used in hospitals might be effective in removing these particles.
One method, called therapeutic apheresis, involves circulating blood through a specialized machine. This process filters out harmful substances like unhealthy cells and abnormal proteins before returning cleaned blood to the patient.
This treatment has been used for various conditions, including autoimmune diseases, blood disorders, neurological issues, long COVID, and some types of cancer.
It can filter out particles as minuscule as 200 nanometers—which is about 5,000 times smaller than a millimeter.
This particle size is what defines microplastics: fragments smaller than 5 mm.
Recent research from Germany has employed this technique to treat 21 patients suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome—essentially filtering their blood twice.
The researchers then analyzed the waste liquid collected from this process.
They identified chemical components like polyamide and polyurethane, which are commonly used plastics found in many industrial processes.
The initial findings indicate that the treatment may effectively eliminate plastic particles, although further investigation is necessary for definitive conclusions.
This study didn’t quantify the amount of plastic removed or compare pre-treatment and post-treatment levels, meaning additional work is needed to clarify the findings.
Nevertheless, researchers find these early results promising and are eager to delve deeper into how this technology can cleanse microplastics from the bloodstream.
Meanwhile, some upscale private clinics aren’t waiting. For instance, in London, a clinic has started offering treatments aimed at washing the blood free from microplastics and other toxins, with prices beginning at $12,636.
According to CEO Yael Cohen, the process is comfortable for patients; they can talk, watch movies, or even sleep during their treatment.
Cohen mentioned that many patients are concerned about the long-term implications of microplastics in their bodies, stating, “It’s, in a way, a badge of honor to support your future self.”
Understanding Microplastics: What Are They and Why Are They in Our Bodies?
Microplastics are small pieces of plastic that originate from everyday products like packaging, plastic bottles, synthetic textiles, and industrial waste.
They’re present in our food, water, and even the air we breathe.
Studies have revealed that microplastics infiltrate various parts of the human body, including breast milk and semen, as well as vital organs like the lungs, liver, kidneys, heart, brain, placenta, and testes.
While scientists continue to explore the impact of microplastics on health, initial findings have flagged several alarming issues.
A major review published in January indicated that exposure to microplastics may negatively affect the digestive, reproductive, and respiratory systems.
Other research suggests potential connections to heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems.
Microplastics have also been correlated with inflammation and oxidative stress, which may lead to a wider array of health challenges, including metabolic disorders, immune dysfunction, and possibly cancer.
There’s increasing evidence that these particles could be linked to neurological symptoms such as fatigue and dizziness. Elevated concentrations have been found in individuals with dementia.
And it doesn’t stop there; microplastics might also impact skin health.
Long-term exposure could lead to dryness, redness, irritation, and even premature aging signs like fine lines and wrinkles.
