Plastic spoons' worth of plastic found inside your brain, new study raises alarm

Research revealed that human brains contain approximately a spoon's worth of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs). (Image: Freepik)

Researchers issued a stark warning on Tuesday, revealing alarming new findings about the accumulation of microplastics in human brain tissue. According to a study published in Brain Medicine, the human brain contains roughly a plastic spoon’s worth of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs), with concentrations 3-5 times higher in individuals diagnosed with dementia.

Even more concerning, brain tissue was found to have MNP levels 7-30 times greater than organs like the liver or kidneys.

Dr Nicholas Fabiano from the University of Ottawa’s Department of Psychiatry, the lead author of the commentary, highlighted the rapid rise in brain microplastic concentrations over the past eight years (2016-2024). “This increase is deeply troubling and parallels the surge in environmental microplastic pollution,” he noted.

Particles smaller than 200 nanometers, primarily made of polyethylene, were particularly prevalent, accumulating in cerebrovascular walls and immune cells. Due to their small size, these particles may cross the blood-brain barrier, raising concerns about their potential role in neurological disorders.

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How to reduce exposure to microplastics

Brain tissues showed 7-30 times higher concentrations of MNPs compared to other organs like the liver or kidney. (Image: Freepik)

The researchers suggested that switching from bottled to filtered tap water alone could significantly cut microplastic intake—from 90,000 to just 4,000 particles per year.

“Bottled water exposes people to nearly as many microplastic particles annually as all other ingested and inhaled sources combined,” explained Dr Brandon Luu, an Internal Medicine Resident at the University of Toronto. He emphasised that switching to tap water could reduce exposure by nearly 90%, making it one of the most effective ways to minimize intake.

Other major sources of microplastics include plastic tea bags, which release millions of microscopic particles per brew, and heating food in plastic containers—especially in the microwave—which significantly increases plastic particle release.

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“Avoiding plastic food storage and opting for glass or stainless-steel alternatives is a simple but important step in reducing exposure,” Dr Luu advised. However, he added that more research is needed to determine whether reducing intake directly leads to lower accumulation in human tissues.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.