Microplastics May Raise Heart Disease Risk, New Research Warns
Microplastics now appear in food, water, and even the air we breathe. Scientists also find them inside human tissues. As a result, experts worry about how they may affect heart health. A new study suggests these tiny particles may speed up artery damage, especially in males.
Researchers See Faster Plaque Buildup
A team from the University of California, Riverside explored this trend. They exposed healthy mice to realistic daily doses of microplastics. The male mice developed far more artery plaque. Female mice did not show the same response. This difference surprised researchers. However, it may help explain why some groups face higher heart disease risks.
How Microplastics Affect Blood Vessels
The study revealed another important finding. Microplastics disrupted endothelial cells, which line and protect blood vessels. These cells regulate circulation and inflammation. When microplastics reached them, harmful genes switched on. As a result, the arteries experienced more stress and plaque formation.Interestingly, the mice did not gain weight or show higher cholesterol. Therefore, traditional risk factors did not explain the damage. Microplastics acted directly on the arteries.
Why Sex Differences Matter
Researchers believe hormones and chromosomes may influence how bodies react. For example, estrogen may offer some protection in females. However, more studies are needed to confirm this theory.
Reducing Exposure Matters
Microplastics are hard to avoid. In addition, no reliable method exists to remove them from the body. Therefore, experts recommend reducing plastic use, choosing safer containers, and limiting processed foods. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle also supports heart health.
