Nanoplastics are now found in food, drinking water, and even in the human body. According to experts, these tiny plastic particles can affect the gut and cause inflammation.
In addition, plastics can carry chemical substances that can disrupt the body’s hormones.
For this reason, nanoplastics are considered a growing health concern, according to Real Simple.
Bacteria in focus
A new study published in Bioresource Technology examined bacteria from fermented foods such as kimchi. Two types of bacteria were tested in laboratories and in mice.
Also read: Your blood type may determine your risk of heart attack and blood clots
The researchers found that one particular bacterium could bind nanoplastics together. This made it easier for the body to eliminate the particles.
In mice, the amount of nanoplastics in feces doubled.
At the same time, experts point out that the experiments used larger amounts of bacteria than what is typically consumed through the diet.
Still uncertain
The bacterial content in fermented foods can vary significantly. It is also unclear whether the bacteria survive the journey through the body in sufficient quantities.
Also read: This is what happens to your body if you eat too much food
Therefore, it remains uncertain whether the same effect applies to humans.
Other foods such as yogurt and sauerkraut may have similar properties, but further research is needed.
Sources: Real Simple and Bioresource Technology.
Also read: Researchers test new drug to prevent weight gain after Wegovy
Also read: Stopping GLP-1 drugs may reverse heart benefits, study finds
This article is made and published by Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk, who may have used AI in the preparation.