Endocrine and metabolic effects of microplastic exposure – current evidence and biological mechanisms

Summary

This review paper looks at existing research on how tiny plastic particles called microplastics, which we can accidentally eat, drink, or breathe in, might disrupt our hormones and metabolism. Scientists think these particles could interfere with how our body regulates energy, blood sugar, and hormone signals, potentially raising the risk of conditions like obesity, diabetes, or thyroid problems. While more research is needed to fully confirm these effects in humans, this matters because microplastics are now essentially unavoidable in our food, water, and air.