A doctor has explained the mistake many people are making in the kitchen that may just be posing a threat to your health.
Research is ongoing into the impact microplastics is having on the body, with previous studies finding it could cause potential inflammation, cellular damage, and even dementia.
Much more information on the damage it can cause for the human body is expected in the months and years, so doctors are airing on the side of caution when it comes to possible microplastic contamination.
Dr Amir Khan, who you'd have likely seen on ITV shows such as Good Morning Britain, Lorraine and This Morning in the UK, talked on his podcast No Appointments Necessary, about one kitchen habit he's stopped conducting because of the risk that surrounds microplastics.
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As per The Mirror, the healthcare professional and TV doctor said: "Now that I know what I know about the dementia study and the carotid artery study - it's something that I do not do anymore. Not because it's definite, but because it might be possible.
"When you store food in plastic containers, it increases the risk of that food absorbing some of the microplastics within that container. If you then put it in the microwave, the heat really ramps up that risk. The plastic becomes a little bit more unstable, and it gives off these microplastics into your food."
Dr Khan noted how some people are worried on how's best to heat up ready meals that are often in plastic packaging, and you're best bet is to empty the contents onto a microwaveable plate or bowl for the heating process.
It comes after a recent study found that microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) discovered in the brain had levels three to five times higher in people diagnosed with dementia.
Dr Nicholas Fabiano, from the University of Ottawa's Department of Psychiatry and lead author of the commentary said: “The dramatic increase in brain microplastic concentrations over just eight years, from 2016 to 2024, is particularly alarming.
“This rise mirrors the exponential increase we're seeing in environmental microplastic levels.”
Meanwhile, Dr Brandon Luu, an Internal Medicine Resident at the University of Toronto provided his advice, saying: "Heating food in plastic containers—especially in the microwave can release substantial amounts of microplastics and nanoplastics.
“Avoiding plastic food storage and using glass or stainless steel alternatives is a small but meaningful step in limiting exposure.”
Topics: Health
Callum Jones