Health and Me

Riya Baibhawi

Does Kombucha Help You Poop? Here's What Health Experts Say

<span>Kombucha</span>, the fizzy fermented tea drink that's taken health circles by storm, may do more than just quench your thirst. Rich in <span>probiotics</span> and naturally hydrating, kombucha could play a helpful role in keeping your digestive system running smoothly—and yes, possibly even helping you poop. 

<h2>But How Does Kombucha Aid Digestion?</h2>

Kombucha is made by fermenting sweetened green tea with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). This fermentation process creates a drink loaded with probiotics—live microorganisms that are known to support gut health. Research shows that probiotics may help reduce gut inflammation, improve nutrient absorption, and ease symptoms of digestive issues like diarrhoea and bloating. They’ve also been linked to improvements in symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a condition often marked by constipation, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements.

While most of the studies focus on probiotic supplements rather than probiotic-rich foods like kombucha, it’s still considered a potentially valuable addition to a gut-friendly diet. However, since the probiotic content in kombucha varies from brand to brand, the exact health benefits may differ with each bottle.

<h2>Probiotics In Kombucha Improve Bowel Movement</h2>

Though no studies have directly investigated the link between kombucha and constipation relief, several reviews have found that probiotics in general can improve bowel regularity. For instance, one study found that probiotics reduced constipation in older adults by up to 40%. Others noted that probiotics improved stool frequency, consistency, and overall digestive transit time.

Given that kombucha is a natural source of probiotics, it may help promote regular bowel movements indirectly. However, more specific research is needed to establish a clear connection between kombucha and constipation relief.

Another reason kombucha might support digestion is that it's a fluid—and staying hydrated is key to preventing constipation. Water and other hydrating beverages help move food through the digestive system and soften stools, making them easier to pass. According to the U.S. National Academy of Medicine, men should aim for about 3.7 litres (125 ounces) of fluid per day, while women should aim for 2.7 litres (91 ounces). While kombucha shouldn’t be your sole source of hydration, it can contribute to your daily fluid intake and support overall <span>digestive health</span>.

Not all kombucha is created equal. Some versions contain added sugars, fruit juices, or flavourings that can alter their nutritional profile. Additionally, because fermentation can produce trace amounts of alcohol, those avoiding alcohol should read product labels carefully.

Kombucha may not work like a laxative, but it supports digestive health in multiple ways. Its probiotic content may help regulate bowel movements, while its fluid content aids in stool consistency and hydration. Whether or not it helps you poop depends on individual factors such as your overall diet, health status, and how much you drink.

In moderation, kombucha can be a gut-friendly addition to a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Have you tried kombucha as part of your digestive health routine?

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Kombucha, the fizzy fermented tea drink that's taken health circles by storm, may do more than just quench your thirst. Rich in probiotics and naturally hydrating, kombucha could play a helpful role in keeping your digestive system running smoothly—and yes, possibly even helping you poop. But How Does Kombucha Aid Digestion?Kombucha is made by fermenting sweetened green tea with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). This fermentation process creates a drink loaded with probiotics—live microorganisms that are known to support gut health. Research shows that probiotics may help reduce gut inflammation, improve nutrient absorption, and ease symptoms of digestive issues like diarrhoea and bloating. They’ve also been linked to improvements in symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a condition often marked by constipation, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements.While most of the studies focus on probiotic supplements rather than probiotic-rich foods like kombucha, it’s still considered a potentially valuable addition to a gut-friendly diet. However, since the probiotic content in kombucha varies from brand to brand, the exact health benefits may differ with each bottle.Probiotics In Kombucha Improve Bowel MovementThough no studies have directly investigated the link between kombucha and constipation relief, several reviews have found that probiotics in general can improve bowel regularity. For instance, one study found that probiotics reduced constipation in older adults by up to 40%. Others noted that probiotics improved stool frequency, consistency, and overall digestive transit time.Given that kombucha is a natural source of probiotics, it may help promote regular bowel movements indirectly. However, more specific research is needed to establish a clear connection between kombucha and constipation relief.Hydration MattersAnother reason kombucha might support digestion is that it's a fluid—and staying hydrated is key to preventing constipation. Water and other hydrating beverages help move food through the digestive system and soften stools, making them easier to pass. According to the U.S. National Academy of Medicine, men should aim for about 3.7 litres (125 ounces) of fluid per day, while women should aim for 2.7 litres (91 ounces). While kombucha shouldn’t be your sole source of hydration, it can contribute to your daily fluid intake and support overall digestive health.A Word Of CautionNot all kombucha is created equal. Some versions contain added sugars, fruit juices, or flavourings that can alter their nutritional profile. Additionally, because fermentation can produce trace amounts of alcohol, those avoiding alcohol should read product labels carefully.Kombucha may not work like a laxative, but it supports digestive health in multiple ways. Its probiotic content may help regulate bowel movements, while its fluid content aids in stool consistency and hydration. Whether or not it helps you poop depends on individual factors such as your overall diet, health status, and how much you drink.In moderation, kombucha can be a gut-friendly addition to a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Have you tried kombucha as part of your digestive health routine?

does kombucha help you poop? here's what health experts say

Ishita Roy

Man Falls Ill After Seeking ChatGPT Advice on Cutting Salt

Health & Wellness

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A U.S. medical journal has issued a cautionary note about relying on artificial intelligence for health guidance after a 60-year-old man developed a rare medical condition following advice he reportedly sought from ChatGPT about eliminating table salt from his diet.

<h2>Case Reported in Leading Medical Journal</h2>

<h3>The case, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine by researchers from the University of Washington, describes how the man developed bromism, also known as bromide toxicity, after substituting sodium chloride (table salt) with sodium bromide. </h3>

Bromism was a recognized condition in the early 20th century and is believed to have accounted for nearly one in ten psychiatric admissions at the time.

The man told doctors he had read about the negative effects of sodium chloride and consulted ChatGPT for alternatives. He said the chatbot mentioned that chloride could be replaced with bromide, albeit “likely for other purposes, such as cleaning.” Despite this, he began taking sodium bromide regularly for three months. 

<h4>Sodium bromide, historically used as a sedative, has largely been abandoned in modern medicine due to safety concerns.</h4>

<h2>Unclear What Advice Was Originally Given</h2>

The researchers noted that they could not access the patient’s original ChatGPT conversation log, making it impossible to verify the exact wording or context of the advice. However, when the authors themselves asked ChatGPT about replacing chloride, the AI’s answer also mentioned bromide, provided no explicit health warning, and did not question the intent behind the inquiry.

<h5>“In our view, a medical professional would have sought clarification and avoided suggesting bromide for human consumption,” the authors wrote.</h5>

<h2>AI Risks in Medical Decision-Making</h2>

The authors warned that ChatGPT and other AI tools can produce scientifically inaccurate information, fail to critically evaluate potential risks, and unintentionally spread misinformation. They stressed that while AI may be useful in connecting scientific concepts with the public, it can also promote “decontextualized information” that could lead to preventable adverse health outcomes.

They recommended that medical professionals consider whether patients have been influenced by AI when assessing symptoms and history.

<strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/illinois-becomes-first-us-state-to-ban-ai-powered-mental-health-therapy-why-is-this-step-important-in-ensuring-patient-safety-article-152456073" data-type="tilCustomLink">Illinois Becomes First US State To Ban AI-Powered Mental Health Therapy; Why Is This Step Important In Ensuring Patient Safety?</a></strong>

<h2>Patient’s Hospitalization and Symptoms</h2>

According to the report, the man arrived at a hospital believing his neighbor was trying to poison him. He presented with multiple dietary restrictions and paranoia, refusing water offered by staff despite being extremely thirsty. Within 24 hours, he attempted to leave the hospital, prompting his involuntary admission for psychiatric care.

He was diagnosed with psychosis and treated accordingly. Once stable, he reported additional symptoms characteristic of bromism, including facial acne, persistent thirst, and insomnia.

<h2>OpenAI’s Response and Recent Updates</h2>

The case predates the recent launch of ChatGPT’s latest version, GPT-5. OpenAI claims the updated model is better equipped to answer health-related queries and proactively flag potential concerns, including serious physical or mental health risks. 

<h4>The company maintains that ChatGPT is not a substitute for professional medical care, a stance reflected in its user guidelines.</h4>

However, the University of Washington authors argue that even with advancements, AI tools should never be relied upon as primary sources for medical decision-making.

The report underscores a growing concern within the medical community: as AI becomes more integrated into daily life, patients may increasingly turn to chatbots for health advice without consulting qualified professionals. Experts say this case is a stark reminder of the dangers of self-medicating based on unverified or misunderstood online information.

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A U.S. medical journal has issued a cautionary note about relying on artificial intelligence for health guidance after a 60-year-old man developed a rare medical condition following advice he reportedly sought from ChatGPT about eliminating table salt from his diet.Case Reported in Leading Medical JournalThe case, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine by researchers from the University of Washington, describes how the man developed bromism, also known as bromide toxicity, after substituting sodium chloride (table salt) with sodium bromide. Bromism was a recognized condition in the early 20th century and is believed to have accounted for nearly one in ten psychiatric admissions at the time.The man told doctors he had read about the negative effects of sodium chloride and consulted ChatGPT for alternatives. He said the chatbot mentioned that chloride could be replaced with bromide, albeit “likely for other purposes, such as cleaning.” Despite this, he began taking sodium bromide regularly for three months. Sodium bromide, historically used as a sedative, has largely been abandoned in modern medicine due to safety concerns.Unclear What Advice Was Originally GivenThe researchers noted that they could not access the patient’s original ChatGPT conversation log, making it impossible to verify the exact wording or context of the advice. However, when the authors themselves asked ChatGPT about replacing chloride, the AI’s answer also mentioned bromide, provided no explicit health warning, and did not question the intent behind the inquiry.“In our view, a medical professional would have sought clarification and avoided suggesting bromide for human consumption,” the authors wrote.AI Risks in Medical Decision-MakingThe authors warned that ChatGPT and other AI tools can produce scientifically inaccurate information, fail to critically evaluate potential risks, and unintentionally spread misinformation. They stressed that while AI may be useful in connecting scientific concepts with the public, it can also promote “decontextualized information” that could lead to preventable adverse health outcomes.They recommended that medical professionals consider whether patients have been influenced by AI when assessing symptoms and history.Also Read: Illinois Becomes First US State To Ban AI-Powered Mental Health Therapy; Why Is This Step Important In Ensuring Patient Safety?Patient’s Hospitalization and SymptomsAccording to the report, the man arrived at a hospital believing his neighbor was trying to poison him. He presented with multiple dietary restrictions and paranoia, refusing water offered by staff despite being extremely thirsty. Within 24 hours, he attempted to leave the hospital, prompting his involuntary admission for psychiatric care.He was diagnosed with psychosis and treated accordingly. Once stable, he reported additional symptoms characteristic of bromism, including facial acne, persistent thirst, and insomnia.OpenAI’s Response and Recent UpdatesThe case predates the recent launch of ChatGPT’s latest version, GPT-5. OpenAI claims the updated model is better equipped to answer health-related queries and proactively flag potential concerns, including serious physical or mental health risks. The company maintains that ChatGPT is not a substitute for professional medical care, a stance reflected in its user guidelines.However, the University of Washington authors argue that even with advancements, AI tools should never be relied upon as primary sources for medical decision-making.The report underscores a growing concern within the medical community: as AI becomes more integrated into daily life, patients may increasingly turn to chatbots for health advice without consulting qualified professionals. Experts say this case is a stark reminder of the dangers of self-medicating based on unverified or misunderstood online information.

man falls ill after seeking chatgpt advice on cutting salt

Dietician Shares Tips To Prevent Osteoporosis, Calls It A "Silent Thief"

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Dietician Omy Naidoo, based in South Africa, has recently shared his views on <span>osteoporosis</span>, which, he says, impacts 1 in 3 women in South Africa. The head dietician at Newtricion Wellness Institute, calls this a "Silent Thief", says it is because it can progress without any noticeable symptoms until a fracture occurs. 

He also shares that lack of vitamin D and calcium are "massive drivers" for this condition, and recommends lifestyle changes. "Your peak <span>bone</span> mass, your highest reserve, is around your early to mid-20s. We have got to think of it quite routinely," he says in a podcast. 

Furthermore, he also notes the importance of physical activities, especially resistance training, to enhance muscle mass, as this "creates a physical cushion to protect your bone structure". 

<h4>What Dietary Changes Can Prevent Osteoporosis</h4>

Low-fat and non-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese are excellent sources of calcium. Many dairy products are also fortified with vitamin D, which helps your body absorb calcium more effectively.

Some fish offer double benefits for <span>bone health</span>. Canned sardines and salmon (with bones) provide calcium, while fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines are rich in vitamin D.

Leafy greens like collard greens, kale, turnip greens, and Chinese cabbage are good calcium sources. Spinach, beet greens, okra, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and prunes supply magnesium, which works with calcium to maintain bone density. Potassium-rich foods such as bananas, papayas, and oranges help balance the body’s acid levels, protecting bone minerals. For vitamin C, which supports collagen formation in bones, look to red and green peppers, citrus fruits, strawberries, broccoli, and pineapples. Vitamin K, found in kale, collard greens, and Brussels sprouts, also plays a role in bone metabolism.

Some juices, breakfast cereals, soy milk, rice milk, breads, and snacks are fortified with calcium and vitamin D. Including these in your diet can help you reach your daily nutrient targets.

Research hints that olive oil, soybeans, blueberries, and omega-3-rich foods like fish oil and flaxseed oil may also benefit bone health. While the evidence isn’t conclusive, their other health benefits make them worth adding to your meals.

Beans provide calcium, magnesium, and fiber, but they also contain phytates, which can block calcium absorption. Soaking beans before cooking and using fresh water can reduce phytate levels.

Adequate protein supports bone health, especially in older adults who may not get enough. However, very high-protein diets, particularly those heavy in meat, can increase calcium loss. Balance your intake by including protein sources that also contain calcium, like dairy.

Too much sodium can cause calcium loss and weaken bones. Limit processed and canned foods, and check <span>nutrition</span> labels — a food is high in sodium if it has 20% or more of the daily value per serving. Aim for under 2,300 mg of sodium per day.

Spinach, rhubarb, beet greens, and some beans are high in oxalates, which reduce calcium absorption. They still offer valuable nutrients but should not be counted as primary calcium sources.

100% wheat bran is the only food known to significantly reduce calcium absorption from other foods eaten at the same time. If you eat wheat bran cereal, consider taking calcium supplements at least two hours before or after.

Heavy alcohol use can lead to bone loss. Caffeine from coffee, tea, and sodas can interfere with calcium absorption, so consume these in moderation. Drinking more than three cups of coffee daily may have a negative effect.

Colas, which contain caffeine and phosphoric acid, may be linked to bone loss, especially if they replace milk or fortified drinks in your diet. The carbonation itself isn’t harmful, but ensure you’re still meeting your calcium needs.

A balanced diet with a variety of these nutrient-rich foods, along with healthy lifestyle habits, can go a long way toward keeping your bones strong for years to come.

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Dietician Omy Naidoo, based in South Africa, has recently shared his views on osteoporosis, which, he says, impacts 1 in 3 women in South Africa. The head dietician at Newtricion Wellness Institute, calls this a "Silent Thief", says it is because it can progress without any noticeable symptoms until a fracture occurs. He also shares that lack of vitamin D and calcium are "massive drivers" for this condition, and recommends lifestyle changes. "Your peak bone mass, your highest reserve, is around your early to mid-20s. We have got to think of it quite routinely," he says in a podcast. Furthermore, he also notes the importance of physical activities, especially resistance training, to enhance muscle mass, as this "creates a physical cushion to protect your bone structure". What Dietary Changes Can Prevent OsteoporosisDairy ProductsLow-fat and non-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese are excellent sources of calcium. Many dairy products are also fortified with vitamin D, which helps your body absorb calcium more effectively.FishSome fish offer double benefits for bone health. Canned sardines and salmon (with bones) provide calcium, while fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines are rich in vitamin D.Fruits and VegetablesLeafy greens like collard greens, kale, turnip greens, and Chinese cabbage are good calcium sources. Spinach, beet greens, okra, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and prunes supply magnesium, which works with calcium to maintain bone density. Potassium-rich foods such as bananas, papayas, and oranges help balance the body’s acid levels, protecting bone minerals. For vitamin C, which supports collagen formation in bones, look to red and green peppers, citrus fruits, strawberries, broccoli, and pineapples. Vitamin K, found in kale, collard greens, and Brussels sprouts, also plays a role in bone metabolism.Fortified FoodsSome juices, breakfast cereals, soy milk, rice milk, breads, and snacks are fortified with calcium and vitamin D. Including these in your diet can help you reach your daily nutrient targets.Other Potential Bone BoostersResearch hints that olive oil, soybeans, blueberries, and omega-3-rich foods like fish oil and flaxseed oil may also benefit bone health. While the evidence isn’t conclusive, their other health benefits make them worth adding to your meals.Tips for Eating for Bone HealthBeans (Legumes)Beans provide calcium, magnesium, and fiber, but they also contain phytates, which can block calcium absorption. Soaking beans before cooking and using fresh water can reduce phytate levels.ProteinAdequate protein supports bone health, especially in older adults who may not get enough. However, very high-protein diets, particularly those heavy in meat, can increase calcium loss. Balance your intake by including protein sources that also contain calcium, like dairy.Salty FoodsToo much sodium can cause calcium loss and weaken bones. Limit processed and canned foods, and check nutrition labels — a food is high in sodium if it has 20% or more of the daily value per serving. Aim for under 2,300 mg of sodium per day.Oxalate-Rich FoodsSpinach, rhubarb, beet greens, and some beans are high in oxalates, which reduce calcium absorption. They still offer valuable nutrients but should not be counted as primary calcium sources.Wheat Bran100% wheat bran is the only food known to significantly reduce calcium absorption from other foods eaten at the same time. If you eat wheat bran cereal, consider taking calcium supplements at least two hours before or after.Alcohol and CaffeineHeavy alcohol use can lead to bone loss. Caffeine from coffee, tea, and sodas can interfere with calcium absorption, so consume these in moderation. Drinking more than three cups of coffee daily may have a negative effect.Soft DrinksColas, which contain caffeine and phosphoric acid, may be linked to bone loss, especially if they replace milk or fortified drinks in your diet. The carbonation itself isn’t harmful, but ensure you’re still meeting your calcium needs.A balanced diet with a variety of these nutrient-rich foods, along with healthy lifestyle habits, can go a long way toward keeping your bones strong for years to come.

Dietician Shares Tips To Prevent Osteoporosis, Calls It A 'Silent Thief'

dietician shares tips to prevent osteoporosis, calls it a "silent thief"

Supriya Ramesh

Cadbury Australia Chocolate Recall: Why Your Body Is Already Home To Over 39,000 Microplastics And How To Cut Them Down

Credits: Canva, FSANZ

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Australians who recently stocked up on Cadbury’s Marvellous Creations Jelly Popping Candy Beanies might want to check their cupboards. Cadbury Australia has recalled its 10-piece share bags (160g) after Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) warned they may contain plastic. 

The recall affects products with a best-before date of May 21, 2026, sold at Coles, Woolworths, Drakes, The Reject Shop, IGA, and other independent retailers.

The advice is clear: do not eat it. Return it for a refund, and if you have already consumed them, seek medical advice if you feel unwell. Cadbury assures that no other products are affected.

<h3>But the uncomfortable truth is that even if you avoid this recalled chocolate, there is still a good chance you are consuming plastic every single day. Wonder why I would say that? Read on...</h3>

While we all love a wholesome, clean meal, full of steamed veggies, a slice of grilled fish, and a glass of water, the burning question is if it is really clean. Invisible to the naked eye, lurking on that dinner plate could be thousands of microscopic plastic particles. From our kitchens to our bedrooms, plastic reigns supreme and it looks almost impossible to get rid of it. Anyway, let us get into the nitty-gritty of how we are directly or indirectly surrounded by plastic and what happens to our bodies.

The Effects of <span>Microplastics</span> on the Human Body

<span>Plastic pollution</span> has long been the most hated when it comes to environmental damage, but now it has got a more personal twist—it is in us. Microplastics, the tiny pieces and fibres that flake off larger plastic items or are manufactured at minuscule sizes, have stealthily infiltrated our food, our air, and even our bodies.

According to current research, the average person unknowingly ingests anywhere between 39,000 and 52,000 microplastic particles each year. And if you include breathing them in? The number climbs higher. We are inhaling and swallowing tiny plastic bits from seafood, vegetables, salt, and even the humble protein powder you down after yoga.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/breast-milk-ice-cream-hits-the-shelves-but-do-adults-really-need-it-article-152450761" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Breast Milk Ice Cream Hits The Shelves, But Do Adults Really Need It?</a>

<h3><span rel="noindex">The Pathways of Microplastics to the Human Body</span></h3>

How do these microplastics get in? The main pathway is oral intake—what we eat and drink. Microplastics have seeped into agricultural soil via sewage sludge, compost, and plastic mulching. From there, they travel up through plant roots and into fruits and vegetables. If you thought organic carrots were safe, they are not. If they are grown in contaminated soil, they are just organic carrots with sides of polyethylene.

Takeaway food does not get off the hook either. Those aesthetic-looking plastic containers? They shed microplastics too. According to a report published in ACS Publications, if you are the kind to order in 4–7 times a week, you could be chomping down on an extra 12 to 203 microplastic fragments just from the <span>packaging</span> alone.

Breathing is not safe either unless you have figured out how to inhale filtered mountain air all day. Most of the plastic in the air comes from roads like tyre dust and synthetic fibres floating invisibly around us. These tiny particles find their way into our lungs, and interestingly, scientists have found that the ones lodged deep in lung tissue are even smaller than what is floating in the atmosphere.

Skin contact, although less of a direct route, still adds to the exposure. Think face creams, scrubs with plastic microbeads, or even that trusty phone case. While our skin usually holds the line, it is not foolproof. Plastics can cling to us, ride into our systems via hand-to-mouth contact, or just hang around, increasing the risk of further exposure.

<span>Microplastics have been detected in human blood</span>, liver, lungs, spleen, breast milk, and even the placenta. They have become part of us, literally. While the full scope of their long-term impact is still being researched, we already know they can cause oxidative stress, mess with our metabolism, interfere with the immune system, and wreak havoc on reproduction and development.

<h3>Small, mindful changes can help reduce your exposure</h3>

<ul><li><span rel="noindex">Ditch the plastic water bottles</span> and go for stainless steel or glass. Stop microwaving food in plastic because heat produces chemicals like BPA to leach into your food.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Choose ceramic over plastic for food storage. Swap plastic chopping boards and utensils for hardwood and metal alternatives.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Even your skincare routine could use a detox. Get mineral-based sunscreens and plastic-free moisturisers.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Avoid detergent pods, scrutinise your tea bags, and maybe give your takeaway habit a little break.</li></ul>

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The Pathways of Microplastics to the Human Body

Microplastics have been detected in human blood

Ditch the plastic water bottles

Australians who recently stocked up on Cadbury’s Marvellous Creations Jelly Popping Candy Beanies might want to check their cupboards. Cadbury Australia has recalled its 10-piece share bags (160g) after Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) warned they may contain plastic. The recall affects products with a best-before date of May 21, 2026, sold at Coles, Woolworths, Drakes, The Reject Shop, IGA, and other independent retailers.The advice is clear: do not eat it. Return it for a refund, and if you have already consumed them, seek medical advice if you feel unwell. Cadbury assures that no other products are affected.But the uncomfortable truth is that even if you avoid this recalled chocolate, there is still a good chance you are consuming plastic every single day. Wonder why I would say that? Read on...While we all love a wholesome, clean meal, full of steamed veggies, a slice of grilled fish, and a glass of water, the burning question is if it is really clean. Invisible to the naked eye, lurking on that dinner plate could be thousands of microscopic plastic particles. From our kitchens to our bedrooms, plastic reigns supreme and it looks almost impossible to get rid of it. Anyway, let us get into the nitty-gritty of how we are directly or indirectly surrounded by plastic and what happens to our bodies.The Effects of Microplastics on the Human BodyPlastic pollution has long been the most hated when it comes to environmental damage, but now it has got a more personal twist—it is in us. Microplastics, the tiny pieces and fibres that flake off larger plastic items or are manufactured at minuscule sizes, have stealthily infiltrated our food, our air, and even our bodies.According to current research, the average person unknowingly ingests anywhere between 39,000 and 52,000 microplastic particles each year. And if you include breathing them in? The number climbs higher. We are inhaling and swallowing tiny plastic bits from seafood, vegetables, salt, and even the humble protein powder you down after yoga.Also Read: Breast Milk Ice Cream Hits The Shelves, But Do Adults Really Need It?The Pathways of Microplastics to the Human BodyHow do these microplastics get in? The main pathway is oral intake—what we eat and drink. Microplastics have seeped into agricultural soil via sewage sludge, compost, and plastic mulching. From there, they travel up through plant roots and into fruits and vegetables. If you thought organic carrots were safe, they are not. If they are grown in contaminated soil, they are just organic carrots with sides of polyethylene.Your Favourite Takeway Takeaway food does not get off the hook either. Those aesthetic-looking plastic containers? They shed microplastics too. According to a report published in ACS Publications, if you are the kind to order in 4–7 times a week, you could be chomping down on an extra 12 to 203 microplastic fragments just from the packaging alone.The Air You Breathe Breathing is not safe either unless you have figured out how to inhale filtered mountain air all day. Most of the plastic in the air comes from roads like tyre dust and synthetic fibres floating invisibly around us. These tiny particles find their way into our lungs, and interestingly, scientists have found that the ones lodged deep in lung tissue are even smaller than what is floating in the atmosphere.Skin-Deep Exposure Skin contact, although less of a direct route, still adds to the exposure. Think face creams, scrubs with plastic microbeads, or even that trusty phone case. While our skin usually holds the line, it is not foolproof. Plastics can cling to us, ride into our systems via hand-to-mouth contact, or just hang around, increasing the risk of further exposure.The Truly Unsettling Part?Microplastics have been detected in human blood, liver, lungs, spleen, breast milk, and even the placenta. They have become part of us, literally. While the full scope of their long-term impact is still being researched, we already know they can cause oxidative stress, mess with our metabolism, interfere with the immune system, and wreak havoc on reproduction and development.Small, mindful changes can help reduce your exposureDitch the plastic water bottles and go for stainless steel or glass. Stop microwaving food in plastic because heat produces chemicals like BPA to leach into your food.Choose ceramic over plastic for food storage. Swap plastic chopping boards and utensils for hardwood and metal alternatives.Even your skincare routine could use a detox. Get mineral-based sunscreens and plastic-free moisturisers.Avoid detergent pods, scrutinise your tea bags, and maybe give your takeaway habit a little break.

cadbury australia chocolate recall: why your body is already home to over 39,000 microplastics and how to cut them down

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