Plastic is ubiquitous in our modern world, with plastic packaging and products found everywhere from the supermarket to our homes and workplaces. Unfortunately, this also means that plastic has become a part of our daily lives in ways that we may not even realize, and it can have negative impacts on our health.
Do you know that an average person intakes 5 grams of plastic every week? That’s like eating a credit card every week. It amounts to 250 grams per year.
An independent Study
In this blog post, we will explore some practical steps you can take to decrease plastic in your body.
Avoid plastic packaging and containers
One of the easiest ways to reduce your exposure to plastic is to avoid using products that come in plastic packaging or containers. When shopping for groceries, choose products that come in glass, paper, or metal packaging instead of plastic. Bring your own reusable bags and containers when shopping for bulk items, and avoid purchasing products that come in plastic packaging whenever possible.
Use alternatives to plastic food and drink containers
Plastic containers, particularly those made of polycarbonate or polyethylene, can release harmful chemicals into food and drink, especially when heated or exposed to acidic foods. Instead of using plastic containers, consider using glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers for storing and heating food. Use a stainless steel or glass water bottle instead of disposable plastic water bottles.
Avoid using plastic utensils and straws
Plastic utensils and straws are often used once and then discarded, contributing to the plastic waste that ends up in our oceans and landfills. Switch to reusable metal, bamboo, or wooden utensils, and use metal or glass straws instead of plastic ones.
Choose natural fibers for clothing and bedding
The textile industry is one of the biggest users of plastic. But we tend to brush them aside due to our ignorance. Many synthetic fabrics, such as polyester and nylon, are made from plastic and can release microplastics into the environment when washed. Choose clothing and bedding made from natural fibers, such as cotton, linen, and wool, to reduce your exposure to microplastics.
Be mindful of your personal care products
Many personal care products, such as toothpaste, body wash, and shampoo, contain microbeads made of plastic. These microbeads can end up in our oceans and waterways, where they can be ingested by marine life and eventually find their way into our food chain. Look for products that are free of microbeads and other plastic ingredients, or switch to natural alternatives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, reducing your exposure to plastic is not only good for the environment but also for your health. By making simple changes in your daily life, such as choosing products with less plastic packaging, using reusable containers, and choosing natural fibers for clothing and bedding, you can decrease the amount of plastic in your body and reduce your impact on the planet.