Summary
A study shows that microplastics can change the gut microbiome, exhibiting changes linked to conditions like depression and colorectal cancer. The research was conducted by the CBmed research center in Graz, Austria, and presented at a European health conference. Researchers found these changes by exposing gut cultures to microplastics, which can be ingested through daily activities.
Key Facts
- Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters.
- They are found in food, water, air, and everyday items.
- The study was conducted by CBmed GmbH and the Medical University of Graz.
- Researchers used gut cultures from healthy humans exposed to common microplastics.
- Microplastics changed the gut microbiome's acidity and bacterial composition.
- These changes resembled those found in conditions like depression and colorectal cancer.
- There is no definite link yet between microplastics and these diseases, but the changes are significant.
- The study highlights the public health importance of addressing plastic pollution.
