Study from Krems: Microplastics in bottles increases blood pressure risk
Study from Krems: Microplastics in bottles increases blood pressure risk
A new study from Austria is causing excitement: the use of plastic bottles could negatively influence blood pressure, this shows the latest results of an investigation by researchers from Danube Private University in Krems on the Danube. This analysis brings the potentially harmful effects of microplastics on the cardiovascular system into the light. Microplasty particles get from plastic bottles into the human body, where they may be able to influence blood pressure.
microplastics is a term that describes solid plastic particles that are less than five millimeters. These tiny particles are everywhere: in the oceans, on the ground and even in the air. They create larger plastic products such as bags or bottles and get into our organism via food and drinks. It is particularly worrying that studies have shown that microplastics can be demonstrated in various human organs, including the brain and liver.
The study in detail
The ultimately carried out pilot study included eight healthy adults who, over a period of four weeks, did without drinks made of plastic bottles and consumed exclusively tap water. During this time, the participants were regularly examined for changes in blood pressure. The results showed that women had a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure, while the values showed no significant changes in men. In addition, a striking reduction in diastolic blood pressure was documented in all participants, whereby women particularly benefited from this.
An interesting hypothesis of the researchers is that the reduction in blood pressure may be connected to a reduction in the phthalates. Phthalates are chemicals that are often used in plastic production and are suspected of increasing blood pressure and increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The without plastic water could reduce the phthalate concentration in the blood.
The exact mechanisms through which microplastics could influence blood pressure have not yet been fully clarified. However, there is indications that microplastics could damage the cell structures in blood cells or even lead to blood clots, which could ultimately contribute to increased blood pressure. The research group has determined that stages of artery rifle, which also have gender -specific differences, could play a role here.
What does that mean for consumers?
In order to reduce the intake of microplastics, the scientists advise to use tap water, since this usually contains significantly less microplastics in many countries, including Germany and Austria than water from plastic bottles. Studies show that the microplastic load can be reduced by up to 90 percent by boiling or filtering tap water. In view of the growing concern about the health risks that emerge from microplastics, it is advisable to take simple measures to protect your own health.
These findings throw a new light on the influence of plastic on our health and illustrate how important it is to rethink the consumption of plastic packaging. In view of the alarming predictions that the microplastic pollution could double by 2040, these results are a call to deal with our consumption habits and to minimize the use of plastic products. Further information can be found on this topic .