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Hindustan Times
6 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
From plate to gut: The silent threat of microplastics
This World Environment Day, the theme 'End Plastic Pollution' highlights a pressing issue: microplastics in our food. These tiny plastic particles, less than 5mm in size, have infiltrated our diets, posing significant health risks. Microplastics are minute plastic particles resulting from the breakdown of larger plastics. Due to their durability, they persist in the environment and have been found in various foods. Dr. Sharad Malhotra, Senior Consultant & Director of Gastroenterology at Aakash Healthcare, says, 'Microplastics are minute plastic particles formed by the decomposition of plastics, which are widespread in nature and hence damage both wildlife and people. They have been found in a variety of foods and can also be inhaled.' Microplastics enter the food chain through various pathways: Seafood: Marine animals ingest plastic debris, which then enters the human diet. Salt: Sea salt, in particular, is contaminated due to ocean pollution. Drinking Water: Both bottled and tap water contain microplastics. Honey and Sugar: Studies have detected plastic particles in these sweeteners. Fruits and Vegetables: Crops irrigated with contaminated water accumulate microplastics. Plastic Packaging: Leaching from containers during storage or heating contributes to contamination. Dr. Bir Singh Sehrawat, Program Clinical Director & HOD of Gastroenterology at Marengo Asia Hospitals Faridabad, explains, 'Microplastics consumed through food, water, or air may build up in the body, particularly within the gastrointestinal tract, raising the risk of certain health issues like gut inflammation, dysbiosis (imbalance in gut microbiota), and potentially increased risk of conditions such as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBS) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBD). Microplastics may also give rise to systemic inflammation, leading to other chronic conditions.' The ingestion of microplastics has been linked to various health issues: Hormone Disruption: Chemicals like BPA and phthalates, associated with plastics, can interfere with hormone production. Immune System Dysfunction: Microplastics can cause oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to immune system dysfunction. DNA Damage: Long-term exposure may lead to genetic mutations and increased cancer risk. Dr. Mandeep Singh Malhotra, Senior Oncologist at Art of Healing Cancer, warns, 'They can also cause DNA damage leading to cancers. They can interfere in our endocrine systems, that is production of hormones. Our immune system also comes under excessive oxidative stress and inflammation, which causes it to dysfunction.' Some finds to microplastics are worrying. 'In one study, scientists found microplastics in human blood for the first time. In another, they found plastic particles in the placenta of unborn babies. People who eat a lot of seafood or work in plastic-related industries may be at higher risk. In extreme cases, long-term exposure has been linked to problems like breathing issues, hormone imbalance, and even organ damage,' says Samiksha Kalra, Dietician, Madhukar Rainbow Children Hospital. To mitigate exposure to microplastics: Opt for Fresh Foods: Choose fresh produce over packaged items. Use Alternative Containers: Replace plastic containers with glass or stainless steel. Avoid Heating Food in Plastic: Do not microwave food in plastic containers. Choose Personal Care Products Wisely: Avoid products containing microbeads. Dr. Bir Singh advises, 'Opt for fresh food and ditch plastic water bottles, using glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastics. Avoid heating food in plastic containers especially in microwave as the heat can cause the plastic to break down and leach microplastics into your food. Use glass or ceramic instead. Choose personal care products wisely as many face scrubs and toothpaste contain tiny plastic microbeads.'
Time of India
28-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
What is Vitamin F and why it is so important for skin health
Vitamin F is a term used to refer to two essential fatty acids: Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and Linoleic acid (LA). These belong to the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid families, respectively. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now They are not actually vitamins but micronutrients. These are not produced in the body and need to be obtained from diet sources. Why vitamin F is important for skin health They are helpful in body functioning. In skin, it improves barrier function and prevents dryness of hair and skin. Skin barrier is broken in almost all skin diseases, therefore, they are an important adjuvant to treatment. They also have anti-inflammatory properties which protect organs from inflammatory damage. Benefits of vitamin F for health According to Dr. Anil KV Minz, Senior Consultant, Dermatology, Marengo Asia Hospitals Faridabad, 'Both ALA and LA are called essential fatty acids because the body cannot synthesize them on its own; they must be obtained through the diet. Once consumed, these fatty acids play a vital role in many biological processes. ALA is a precursor for other omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA, which are essential for brain and heart health. LA, on the other hand, is the parent compound of other omega-6 fatty acids that are crucial for skin health and inflammation regulation.' What is collagen? Why it is important and 5 vegetarian sources Vitamin F supports numerous body functions: · It helps build and maintain healthy cell membranes. · It plays a crucial role in the development and function of the brain and nervous system. · It has an integral part in the production of hormone-like substances called eicosanoids, which regulate blood pressure, immune function, and inflammation. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now · It contributes to skin hydration, smoothness, and barrier function. · It modulates oil production and prevents clogging of pores. Hence, it is helpful in acne. · For cases with wound healing, It's thought to help by reducing oxidative stress and improving nerve blood flow to problem areas and assisting wound healing. Common dietary sources of ALA include flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and canola oil. You should incorporate vegetable oils like sunflower, safflower, and corn oil, as well as nuts and seeds in your daily diet as these contain LA abundantly. While both fatty acids are necessary, maintaining the right balance between omega-3 and omega-6 is crucial. Excessive consumption of omega-6 relative to omega-3—common in modern diets—can lead to increased inflammation and related health problems. What UK Universities Are Really Looking For in 2025 | It's Not Just Grades
