A recent new study has announced that one bottled water contains way more microplastics than it was estimated earlier with a staggering 2,40,000 plastic fragments making it harmful for any people who drinks it. Around 90 per cent of these tiny plastic bits are nanoplastics – particles that are less than a micron in size and can be absorbed into human cells and tissue, as well as cross the blood-brain barrier.
The presence of these microplastics in bottled water was known before only but the technology to better identify micro and nanoplastics was lacking. So, the new study was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and is the first attempt to identify nanoplastics in bottled water.
The scientists at Columbia University’s Lamont-Doherty laboratory used high imaging technology called SRS microscopy to study water samples from three popular brands and found hundreds of thousands of bits of plastic per litre of water.
Research has also been done on the effects of plastic on human health which is not extensive but scientists have started to identify the presence of plastics in people’s bodies and organs.
Bottled water presence of microplastics – Its harmful effects
The microplastics contained in bottled water can enter the bloodstream of the human body and cause digestive issues, and inflammation, and can disrupt nutrient absorption apart from causing developmental delay in children. In order to prevent exposure to microplastics, it is crucial to avoid using plastic bottles, lunchboxes or any kind of plastic packaging.
According to various studies, mothers can pass microplastics via the placenta to a developing foetus. These chemicals can, therefore, cause serious harm to the health of the children.
How to tackle the dangers of microplastics?
Dr Jagdish Kathwate, Consultant Neonatologist & Pediatrician, Motherhood Hospital Pune told HT Digital earlier, “The parents must ensure that there should be a limit to the exposure of microplastics found in products and the environment, and the toxic chemicals linked to them. Parents must not give their children food products with plastic packaging. Opt for glass milk bottles instead of plastic ones to feed your baby. Do not give plastic toys and objects to children who put them in their mouths.”
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