Microplastics are the latest health crisis. Recent studies have shown that microplastics and their smaller counterparts, nano plastics have reached almost every corner of our body, including lungs, liver, heart, guts, brain, and even testicles and placenta. Last month, researchers at the University of New Mexico discovered that our brain is constantly accumulating plastic, which has become 0.5% of its weight. So what do we do? The answer is simple cut down consumption. Here's what you can do.5 Steps You Can Take To Cut Reduce Microplastic Accumulation In Your BodyDon't Drink From Plastic Water BottlesA recent study has shown that switching from bottled water to filtered tap water could cut microplastic intake by about 90% — from 90,000 to 4,000 particles each year. Teeny bits of plastic break off from the inner side of plastic bottles and become a part of the water, particularly when the bottle is squeezed or exposed to heat. Over time, these particles accumulate in the body and may pose long-term health risks, although the exact effects are still being studied.It is recommended to use a stainless steel, glass, or copper reusable water bottle with filtered water to reduce microplastic consumption. Not only is this better for your health, but also a more sustainable alternative for the environment.Choose Right Tea BagsA 2019 Canadian study revealed that steeping a single plastic tea bag at brewing temperature (203 degrees Fahrenheit) releases about 11.6 billion microplastics and 3.1 billion nanoplastics into each cup.“We think that it is a lot when compared to other foods that contain microplastics,” researcher Nathalie Tufenkji at McGill University in Quebec told *New Scientist*. “Table salt, which has a relatively high microplastic content, has been reported to contain approximately 0.005 micrograms of plastic per gram of salt. A cup of tea contains thousands of times greater mass of plastic, at 16 micrograms per cup.”To avoid too steep (pun intended) health consequences, experts recommend using paper or loose-leaf tea bags instead. Choosing tea brands that specifically mention plastic-free packaging can also help reduce your intake.Boil and Filter Tap WaterIn many cultures, boiling water before drinking it is an ancient custom and/or necessary for survival. Research suggests that when it comes to microplastics, the intervention could be just as critical.A 2024 study found that boiling water can quickly and effectively rid home drinking supplies of microplastics. Researchers found that boiling and filtering tap water could reduce the microplastics (and nanoplastics) in water by nearly 90%. How does it work? As the water temperature rises, the limescale — that chalky residue left in water kettles — interferes with the plastics, absorbing them and removing them from the water.Avoid Other Everyday Plastic SourcesYour kitchen may be another source of exposure. Plastic cutting boards, for example, can shed tiny bits of plastic during food prep, which may end up in your meals. Similarly, heating food in plastic containers — especially in the microwave — can cause plastics to break down and leach harmful particles into your food.Simple changes such as switching to wooden or glass cutting boards, and using ceramic or glass containers for heating food, can go a long way in reducing your daily microplastic intake.While avoiding microplastics altogether may not be possible, these small steps can help you significantly reduce your exposure and protect your long-term health.