The Plastic Inside Us: Why Microplastics Are a Big Problem
- Lumati Team
- Dec 3, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 9
We already know that plastic pollution harms oceans and ecosystems. Now we are starting to understand the problem of plastic inside us. Tiny fragments called microplastics have made their way into the air we breathe, the food we eat, and our tissues, organs and bloodstreams.
The good news is that awareness gives us power. Today, we can actually measure microplastics in the body, track how our levels change over time, and take evidence-based steps to minimize exposure. By supporting the body’s own detoxification systems, through hydration, antioxidants, and cellular repair, you can strengthen your natural ability to clear what doesn’t belong.
Tools like Lumati’s Saliva Microplastics Test make this process simple and actionable. You can see what’s happening inside your body and take real steps toward balance.
Why it matters
Scientists are increasingly concerned about how microplastics may affect human health. These tiny particles can carry chemical additives¹ like BPA and phthalates or absorb toxins from the environment. Once inside the body, they may trigger inflammation and oxidative stress², both linked to accelerated aging and chronic disease.
While research is still emerging, the message is clear: microplastics are everywhere, and proactive care makes a difference. Understanding your exposure, and supporting the systems that protect and renew your cells, is one of the most powerful ways to take control of your long-term health.
How to limit microplastic exposure
Microplastics are part of modern life, but you can reduce how much your body absorbs:
Drink filtered tap water instead of bottled—bottled water can contain hundreds of particles per liter.
Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers³; use glass or ceramic instead.
Choose natural fabrics like cotton or wool to reduce microfiber shedding in the wash.
Keep your home clean and ventilated to minimize airborne microplastic dust. Consider investing in a HEPA filter air purifier.
Most chewing gum is loaded with microplastics. Opt for a natural version or avoid altogether.
Choose salt stored in non-plastic containers and use ceramic or metal grinders—plastic grinders can shed thousands of microplastic particles during normal use.
Use glass or ceramic mugs for hot drinks instead of plastic-lined takeaway cups—heat increases microplastic release into beverages.
Opt for truly plastic-free teabags sealed with cotton rather than biodegradable plastics; labeling is inconsistent, so some brand research may be required.
Even small daily changes can significantly reduce your exposure over time.
Curious about your own exposure?
At Lumati, we make it possible to find out. Our Saliva Microplastics Test measures the presence, size, and types of microplastic particles in your body—an easy, non-invasive way to see your personal exposure level.
Microplastics are grouped by particle size, since different sizes suggest different ways plastics may enter the body. Nanoplastics, which measure under 1 micrometer (less than 1,000 nanometers), are the most concerning because they can move from the lungs or digestive tract into the bloodstream and potentially reach organs like the brain, liver, and kidneys; research also suggests they may cross the placental barrier in animals. Larger microplastics, ranging from 1 micrometer up to 5 millimeters, are typically inhaled or ingested and can cause irritation or inflammation in the lungs and digestive tract. While many of these particles are excreted, some may still accumulate over time. Even certain personal care products containing microbeads allow smaller particles within this range to enter through the skin, contributing to localized toxicity.
Who should test?
Microplastics testing is especially relevant for anyone with higher exposure risks, including people who work or have worked in manufacturing, construction, textiles, or cleaning; those living near industrial facilities; and individuals who rely on tap water or frequently consume takeout or packaged foods. It’s also recommended for anyone who regularly wears water- or stain-resistant clothing or uses e-cigarettes or vape products. And of course, anyone simply curious about their own exposure can benefit from understanding their baseline.
Support your body’s natural defense systems
There’s no proven way to completely remove microplastics yet, but you can make your body stronger and more efficient at processing them. Research supports a few key strategies:
Fiber-rich foods keep your digestive system moving, helping the body excrete what it doesn’t need.
Antioxidant-rich diets like berries, turmeric, green tea, and leafy greens combat oxidative stress.
Probiotics may help bind and move microplastics through the gut (shown in early lab studies, though human data is still developing).
It’s less about “detoxing” and more about creating an internal environment that’s resilient, balanced, and equipped to adapt.
Your results can help guide a personalized plan to reduce environmental toxins and strengthen your body’s natural defenses. That might include antioxidant support with Lumati Red, molecular hydrogen therapy to neutralize oxidative stress, and other forms of cellular nourishment.
The bottom line
Microplastics are a reality of modern life but they don’t have to be a mystery. You can measure them, track them, and take meaningful steps to reduce their impact.
Take the Lumati Saliva Microplastics Test today and discover what’s happening inside your system. Because when you understand what’s within your body, you have the power to change it.
Order your test today to start tracking your levels!
References:
¹Islam, M. S., Kekre, K. M., Shah, T. A., Tsai, P.-C., Ponnusamy, V. K., & Andaluri, G. (2025). Unraveling the complexities of microplastics and PFAS synergy to foster sustainable environmental remediation and ecosystem protection: A critical review with novel insights. Journal of Hazardous Materials Advances, 17, 100621. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hazadv.2025.100621
(S2772416625000336)
²Bishop, B., Webber, W. S., Atif, S. M., Ley, A., Pankratz, K. A., Kostelecky, R., Colgan, S. P., Dinarello, C. A., Zhang, W., & Li, S. (2025). Micro- and nano-plastics induce inflammation and cell death in human cells. Frontiers in Immunology, 16, 1528502. https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2025.1528502 (PMC11995046)
³Hussain, K. A., Romanova, S., Okur, I., Zhang, D., Kuebler, J., Huang, X., Wang, B., Fernandez-Ballester, L., Lu, Y., Schubert, M., & Li, Y. (2023). Assessing the release of microplastics and nanoplastics from plastic containers and reusable food pouches: Implications for human health. Environmental Science & Technology, 57(26), 9782–9792. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.3c01942
