Microplastics in Our Bodies and Why Your Toothpaste Matters
In recent years, an alarming discovery has been making headlines across scientific journals and mainstream media alike: microplastics, those tiny plastic fragments smaller than 5mm, aren't just polluting our oceans and environment—they're inside of us.
Microplastics in Human Bodies: What We Know
The scientific evidence documenting microplastics in humans continues to grow, with several groundbreaking studies revealing just how pervasive these particles have become:
In Our Blood
In 2022, researchers from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in the Netherlands published a study in Environment International that detected microplastic particles in human blood for the first time. The study found plastic particles in nearly 80% of the participants tested, with polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polystyrene being the most commonly detected polymers. This discovery raised immediate concerns about plastic particles potentially being transported to organs throughout the body.
In Our Lungs
Multiple studies have confirmed the presence of microplastics in human lung tissue. A 2022 study published in the Science of the Total Environment journal detected microplastic particles in all regions of the lungs examined, including the deepest parts. This suggests that we're regularly breathing in these particles, which can become lodged in delicate lung tissue.
In Our Brain
Perhaps most concerning of all, research has demonstrated that microplastics can cross the blood-brain barrier—a protective membrane that prevents most substances in the bloodstream from entering the brain. A study in the journal Environmental Science & Technology found microplastic particles in human brain tissue samples, raising questions about potential neurological impacts.
In Our Bones and Skeletal System
A 2025 study published in Environment International by Yang et al. revealed microplastics in human skeletal tissues for the first time. The researchers discovered microplastic particles in bone, cartilage, and intervertebral discs, with concentrations reaching as high as 61.1 particles per gram in intervertebral discs—higher than levels previously found in some organs like the liver and lungs.
The study identified nine distinct types of microplastics within the human skeletal system, with polypropylene (35%), ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (30%), and polystyrene (20%) being the most prevalent. Particularly concerning was the finding that microplastics were detected in deeply protected tissues that have no direct contact with the environment, suggesting these particles travel through the bloodstream to reach all parts of our bodies.
Even more alarming, animal studies showed that exposure to microplastics increased inflammatory markers and disrupted bone formation processes.
In the Placenta
Even before birth, humans may be exposed to microplastics. Italian researchers published findings in Environment International documenting microplastic particles in human placentas. This discovery has profound implications, suggesting that exposure begins before we even enter the world.
From our bloodstream to our bones, researchers are finding these persistent particles in virtually every part of the human body. As we learn more about this invisible threat, it becomes increasingly important to examine all potential sources of exposure, including everyday products like toothpaste.
How Do Microplastics Enter Our Bodies?
Understanding exposure pathways is crucial for reducing our contact with these potentially harmful particles:
Ingestion
The most obvious route is through what we eat and drink. Microplastics have been found in drinking water, table salt, seafood, and many other food products. A person consuming an average diet may ingest thousands of microplastic particles annually.
Inhalation
As the lung studies indicate, we breathe in microplastic particles that circulate in the air. These can come from synthetic textiles, degrading plastic materials, and airborne pollution.
Personal Care Products
Many conventional personal care products, including some toothpastes, have historically contained microplastics in various forms. Before bans in many countries, polyethylene microbeads were commonly added as exfoliants. Even today, many oral care products contain plastic-based ingredients that may contribute to our overall exposure.
Health Concerns and Emerging Research
While scientists are still uncovering the full health implications of microplastics in our bodies, several concerns have emerged:
Inflammation Responses: Studies suggest microplastics may trigger inflammatory responses in body tissues, potentially contributing to chronic health conditions. The 2025 skeletal system research specifically showed increased levels of inflammatory markers like TNF-α in animals exposed to microplastics.
Endocrine Disruption: Some plastics contain compounds that can interfere with hormone function, potentially affecting reproduction, metabolism, and development.
Toxic Carriers: Microplastics can absorb and transport other environmental toxins, potentially delivering concentrated doses to sensitive tissues.
Microbiome Disruption: Emerging research indicates microplastics may alter gut microbiome composition, with possible implications for digestive and immune health.
Skeletal Health Impact: The 2025 study demonstrated that microplastic exposure affected bone formation markers and inflammatory cytokines, suggesting potential impacts on skeletal health over time.
Although conclusive human health studies are still developing, the precautionary principle suggests minimizing exposure wherever possible.
Reducing Your Microplastic Exposure Through Oral Care
Your daily oral care routine might be an overlooked source of microplastic exposure:
Hidden Plastics in Conventional Toothpaste
Many mainstream toothpaste brands contain plastic-derived ingredients, including:
Polyethylene glycol (PEG) compounds
Acrylates copolymer
Polypropylene glycol
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
These ingredients may not be as visible as the microbeads of the past, but they still represent potential sources of plastic exposure during the twice-daily ritual of brushing your teeth.
Choose Natural Alternatives
This is where Earth & Body Wise makes a difference. Our commitment to 100% natural, plastic-free ingredients means you can maintain excellent oral health without unnecessary exposure to synthetic polymers.
Our toothpaste formulation uses:
Plant-based cleansing agents derived from coconut oil
Natural mineral abrasives like silica and calcium carbonate
Essential oils for flavor and antimicrobial properties
Absolutely zero plastic-derived ingredients
TAking Control of Your Exposure
While completely eliminating microplastic exposure may be impossible in today's world, making informed choices about products that go in or on your body represents a practical step toward reducing your overall burden.
By switching to Earth & Body Wise's natural toothpaste, you're not only protecting your own health but also preventing more plastic from entering our waterways and environment. It's a small change that, multiplied across thousands of conscious consumers, can make a significant difference.
Make the switch today and join us in creating a healthier future—for your body and our planet.