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.
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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.
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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.
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