Microplastics are plastic fragments smaller than five millimeters. They come from everyday products such as packaging, textiles, tires and cosmetics.
These particles are found in the air, the water we drink, the food we eat and even in our blood.
According to a recent study led by Rodrigo Bueno de Oliveira from the State University of Campinas in Brazil published in Osteoporosis International, these microscopic plastics can reach bone tissue through the bloodstream after being inhaled or ingested.
Once there, they can disrupt normal cellular activity and trigger inflammation that interferes with bone regeneration.
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The study has shown that microplastics reduce the vitality of bone cells, speed up cellular aging and promote chronic inflammation.
They also disturb the delicate balance between bone-forming cells and bone-degrading cells, which could eventually lead to bone loss.
Evidence from animal and human studies
Bones constantly renew themselves through a process involving two key types of cells: osteoblasts, which create new bone, and osteoclasts, which break down old tissue.
Exposure to microplastics stimulates an overproduction of osteoclasts, accelerating the loss of bone density.
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In animal studies, exposure to these particles has caused bone deformities, reduced density and slower skeletal growth.
Even more concerning, scientists have detected microplastics in human cartilage, spinal discs and bone marrow.
In some samples, there were dozens of plastic particles per gram of bone tissue.
These particles cause oxidative stress and interfere with the signals that guide stem cells, gradually weakening the skeleton’s ability to regenerate.
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Could this explain rising osteoporosis rates?
Osteoporosis already affects millions worldwide, particularly older adults and postmenopausal women.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation predicts that fractures linked to this disease will rise by more than 30 percent by 2050.
Researchers now suggest that environmental exposure to microplastics could be a missing piece of the puzzle.
While more studies are needed, they urge people to reduce plastic use whenever possible.
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Filtering tap water, avoiding heavily packaged foods, choosing natural fabrics and not reheating food in plastic containers can all help limit exposure.
This article is based on information from ElConfidencial.com, Osteoporosis International
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