Plastic is such a routine part of everyday life that most of us barely notice how often our food and drinks come into contact with it. Now, scientists are examining whether tiny particles from one widely used type could have unexpected effects inside the body.
A new study published in Science Advances has raised questions about polyethylene microplastics and liver health. According to the research and reporting by Medical News Today, scientists led by Adi Joshi at Texas A&M University studied the effects in mice. The findings have not been demonstrated in humans.
Changes in the liver
For eight weeks, researchers gave mice polyethylene orally each day. Some animals ate a regular diet, while others received a diet high in fat, fructose and cholesterol designed to trigger a serious form of fatty liver disease known as MASH.
The scientists detected liver changes following polyethylene exposure in both groups. Their analysis indicated effects on biological processes involved in metabolism, tissue repair and responses to damage.
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Mice that already had diet-related liver problems showed greater liver injury when exposed to polyethylene.
Humans are different
The findings do not establish that polyethylene causes fatty liver disease or liver damage in people.
Medical News Today consulted Mayfield Clinic doctor Opel Baker, who was not involved in the research. Her assessment highlighted the need for human studies before scientists can determine whether microplastics have a meaningful role in liver disease.
Researchers also want to investigate whether polyethylene could influence more advanced liver problems, including fibrosis.
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Everyday precautions
Completely avoiding microplastics is difficult. People concerned about exposure can take simple precautions, such as avoiding heating food in plastic containers and choosing glass or stainless steel for storage where practical.
For now, established measures remain more important for protecting liver health, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight and limiting alcohol.
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This article is made and published by Mie Hermansen, who may have used AI in the preparation.