Microplastics, Gut Health & How to Fight Back

We live in a world where plastic is unavoidable. From food packaging to clothing fibers, microplastics have become an invisible part of our daily lives. On average, humans consume a credit card’s worth of plastic every week, with microplastics entering our bodies through water, food, and even the air we breathe. While the long-term effects of this exposure are still being studied, evidence shows that microplastics disrupt gut health, fuel chronic inflammation, and interfere with the body’s natural repair systems.

Beyond microplastics, environmental toxins like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—commonly called "forever chemicals"—accumulate in our bodies over time, increasing inflammation and weakening our immune response. The gut microbiome, which plays a central role in regulating inflammation, is particularly vulnerable to these toxins.

The good news? While we can't eliminate exposure entirely, we can take steps to mitigate its harmful effects.

What Are Microplastics and Forever Chemicals?

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5mm in size, originating from broken-down plastic waste, synthetic fabrics, and industrial runoff. They are found in oceans, soil, food, and even drinking water. Studies have now confirmed the presence of microplastics in blood and organs—including the brain.

Forever chemicals, like PFAS, are industrial compounds used in non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and food packaging. These chemicals do not break down naturally and persist in the environment for decades. Research has linked them to immune dysfunction, metabolic disorders, and increased cancer risk. Once in the body, they disrupt hormonal balance and increase oxidative stress, fueling systemic inflammation.

What Do Microplastics Do to the Gut?

The gut microbiome is the first line of defense against harmful environmental exposures, but microplastics and forever chemicals can throw it off balance. Studies have shown that microplastic ingestion alters gut bacteria composition, leading to increased inflammation and reduced microbial diversity.

Microplastics also disrupt the function of macrophages—immune cells responsible for clearing toxins and regulating inflammation. Instead of neutralizing harmful substances, macrophages exposed to microplastics enter a state of chronic activation, releasing inflammatory cytokines that damage intestinal barrier integrity. This disruption allows harmful bacteria and toxins to leak into the bloodstream, increasing the risk of autoimmune diseases and metabolic disorders.

Recent research has also linked microplastic exposure to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Polyethylene microplastics, one of the most common plastic pollutants, have been found to exacerbate gut inflammation, triggering symptoms associated with both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Studies indicate that microplastics contribute to IBD by:

• Altering gut flora

• Increasing oxidative stress

• Impairing the gut’s ability to regulate inflammation

In individuals with pre-existing gut conditions, exposure to these environmental toxins may worsen symptoms and accelerate disease progression.

PFAS compounds add another layer of damage by interfering with gut hormone signaling. These chemicals reduce the production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which play a crucial role in immune regulation and intestinal health. The result? Increased gut permeability, heightened immune activation, and a higher likelihood of developing inflammatory conditions like Crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

How to Reduce Exposure and Support Detoxification

While we can’t avoid microplastics entirely, there are ways to minimize exposure and strengthen the body’s resilienceagainst environmental toxins. Research has shown that microplastics accumulate in the gut and bloodstream over time, triggering immune responses that contribute to chronic inflammation. Reducing exposure and improving the body's natural detoxification pathways can help mitigate these harmful effects.

• Filter Your Water: Studies show that tap water is a major source of microplastic exposure. Investing in a high-quality water filter can significantly reduce intake.

• Reduce Processed and Packaged Foods: Plastic packaging leaches chemicals into food, especially when exposed to heat. Opt for fresh, whole foods, and avoid microwaving food in plastic.

• Be Mindful of Skincare and Cleaning Products: Many products contain microplastic particles. Look for those labeled "microplastic-free".

• Increase Fiber Intake: Fiber-rich foods support gut microbiome diversity and help eliminate toxins. Fiber may bind to microplastics, promoting their excretion.

• Support Liver Health: The liver processes and removes toxins. Eat cruciferous vegetables, antioxidants, and stay hydrated.

• Enhance Gut Barrier Integrity: A strong gut lining prevents microplastic-induced inflammation. Consume fermented foods, prebiotics, and probiotics.

How immy Can Help

A strong microbiome is essential for mitigating the inflammatory effects of environmental toxins, and this is where immy comes in. Research on similar strains of mycolicibacteria suggests they can counteract inflammation and support immune resilience.

immy’s unique formulation is designed to strengthen gut barrier function, helping to reduce permeability and reinforce immune regulation. It also promotes the production of anti-inflammatory molecules, offering an added layer of protection against environmental exposures.

While we can't eliminate microplastics overnight, we can take action to protect our health. Supporting gut microbiome diversity, reducing exposure to harmful toxins, and prioritizing inflammation control are key steps in building long-term resilience.

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The information provided here is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This does not replace advice from a physician or medical professional. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.