A New Study Put People on a Low-Plastic Diet. It Changed The Chemicals in Their Urine.
A hopeful sign.
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Researchers in Australia have discovered that reducing plastic exposure can rapidly lower levels of harmful chemicals in the human body. In a controlled study of 60 participants, those who consumed foods packaged and prepared without plastic contact showed dramatic decreases in plastic-associated chemicals within just seven days, with some chemical levels dropping by up to 60 percent compared to a control group.
The trial focused on two major categories of plastic chemicals: phthalates and bisphenols, including the widely-known BPA. These substances can leach from plastic packaging, containers, utensils, and food storage materials into the foods we eat. Researchers worked with over 100 farmers and food producers to source foods that had minimal plastic contact throughout production, processing, and packaging, while also providing participants with plastic-free kitchenware made from stainless steel and wood.
The results were significant. Participants assigned to low-plastic foods and equipment showed reductions of 38 to 60 percent in specific plastic chemical metabolites found in their urine. The findings suggest that everyday dietary choices and food preparation methods can meaningfully impact chemical exposure levels in the body within a remarkably short timeframe.
Scientists caution that while these chemicals are typically eliminated from the body relatively quickly, the long-term health effects remain unclear. However, numerous studies have linked these plastics-derived chemicals to serious health concerns including cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders, indicating that reducing exposure could have important implications for public health.
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Originally reported by Sciencealert →
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