Microplastics—tiny, invisible plastic particles—have infiltrated the food supply, creating a hidden health crisis. According to Dr. Rick Cohen, a Duke University-trained MD, these microplastics can build up in your brain, damage organs, and increase heart attack risk by up to 450%. The shocking part? Some of the worst offenders are foods Americans consume every day.

In this article, we’ll dive into these toxic “microplastic foods” and how to avoid them.

What Are Microplastics and Why Are They Dangerous?

Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters, originating from products like water bottles, packaging, and synthetic fabrics. These particles enter ecosystems through pollution and can end up in the food chain.

Once ingested, microplastics can:

• Disrupt hormonal balance.
• Trigger inflammation in the body.
• Cause oxidative stress, leading to cell damage.

Studies show that prolonged exposure to microplastics can accumulate in vital organs, posing severe health risks, including heart disease, brain disorders, and digestive system issues.

The 3 Toxic Microplastic Foods to Avoid

1. Shrimp and Other Popular Seafood

Seafood is a top source of microplastic contamination. Shellfish like shrimp, oysters, and mussels are particularly vulnerable because they filter-feed, trapping microplastics from polluted water.

The Risk:

• Researchers estimate that consuming just one portion of shrimp or mussels can expose you to thousands of microplastic particles.
• These plastics can settle in your organs, causing inflammation and increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

What to Do:

• Choose sustainably farmed or wild-caught seafood from less-polluted waters.
• Limit your intake of shellfish and opt for smaller, less-contaminated fish like sardines or mackerel.

2. Vegetables Grown with Plastic-Covered Soil

Vegetables may seem harmless, but many are grown in soil exposed to plastic mulching. This practice uses plastic sheets to retain moisture, but as the plastic breaks down, particles leach into the soil and are absorbed by crops.

The Risk:

• Leafy greens, tomatoes, and root vegetables are often contaminated.
• These microplastics interfere with nutrient absorption and damage gut health.

What to Do:

• Buy organic produce from farms that avoid plastic mulching.
• Wash vegetables thoroughly and peel root veggies to minimize exposure.

3. Table Salt

One of the most surprising sources of microplastics is table salt. Sea salt, rock salt, and even Himalayan pink salt are often contaminated due to polluted water sources.

The Risk:

• Studies have found over 90% of salt brands worldwide contain microplastics.
• Consuming contaminated salt regularly can lead to plastic buildup in the bloodstream.

What to Do:

• Use salt sparingly and opt for brands that test for microplastic contamination.
• Consider alternatives like unprocessed mineral salts from trusted sources.

How to Protect Yourself From Microplastic Exposure

• Filter Your Water: Invest in a high-quality water filtration system that removes microplastics and other contaminants.
• Avoid Plastic Packaging: Choose food packaged in glass, metal, or paper. Avoid reheating food in plastic containers.
• Eat Organic and Local: Organic farming often avoids plastic-based practices. Supporting local farms reduces the risk of contamination from industrial pollutants.
• Boost Your Body’s Detox Mechanisms: Add more antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and turmeric to your diet to support your liver and immune system.

FAQs About Microplastics in Food

Q: Can I completely avoid microplastics?

Unfortunately, microplastics are everywhere, but you can minimize exposure by making conscious choices about your diet and environment.

Q: Are certain populations more at risk?

Yes. Pregnant women, children, and individuals with weakened immune systems are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of microplastics.

Q: Is organic seafood free of microplastics?

No. While organic seafood avoids synthetic chemicals, it can still be contaminated if harvested from polluted waters.

The Bottom Line

Microplastics are a growing threat to public health, infiltrating even the healthiest diets. By avoiding contaminated foods like seafood, plastic-grown vegetables, and table salt, you can reduce your risk of exposure.

Want to learn more about how to protect your body from toxins? Dr. Rick Cohen has developed cutting-edge solutions to counteract microplastic damage. Discover his recommendation for microplastic free salt here.

By taking proactive steps today, you can safeguard your health for years to come.