Nanoplastics: An Invisible Toxic Load
Plastic pollution has long been a concerning issue for our planet. From massive floating garbage patches in our oceans to microplastics found in the most remote areas of the earth, plastic waste seems to be omnipresent. However, there's a new threat lurking in our environment that is even more insidious: nanoplastics. Here is a link to a well written review of a host of research papers related to this issue, some main points are laid out below. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9026096/
Nanoplastics Able to Enter Cells and Cause Apoptosis (Cell Death)
Nanoplastics are tiny particles measuring less than 100 nanometers in size. Due to their minuscule dimensions, they have the ability to penetrate cells and accumulate inside our bodies. Recent studies have shown that nanoplastics can cause apoptosis, a process of programmed cell death, leading to tissue damage and long-term health issues. Nanoplastics act like a Trojan horse with respect to entering the body cells. The plastic particle becomes coated in a Protein membrane that allows entry through the cell wall, then when inside, a cellular component called Lysosome removes the Protein coating and exposes the cell to the plastic which then leads to death of that cell.
Leaching of Toxic Chemicals from Plastic Waste
One of the major concerns with plastic waste is the leaching of toxic chemicals. When exposed to sunlight and heat, plastic breaks down and releases harmful substances into the surrounding environment. These chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, are known endocrine disruptors and have been linked to various health problems including reproductive disorders and developmental issues in children. Perhaps the most concerning or dangerous aspect of this type of toxicity is the slow burn nature. It is cumulative load over a time span that leads to symptomatic disease but potentially with no obvious link to the actual cause which is constant low level exposure to toxic chemicals day to day. Your clothing is a classic example of this. Roughly 2/3 of the clothing manufactured today is plastic/synthetic derived from the Petrochemical industry. If you train No Gi Jiu Jitsu or Grappling, Run, Cycle, Surf or work out at the gym then you are routinely exposed to toxic plastic clothing. Alchemical are offering Natural alternatives in the form of Polyester free clothing.
Links Between Plastic Exposure and Hormone Disruption in Humans
Human exposure to plastic waste, both directly and indirectly, has raised serious concerns regarding hormone disruption. Plastic particles, including nanoplastics, can mimic hormones in our bodies, leading to a disruption in the endocrine system. This interference can affect fertility, metabolism, and even contribute to the development of certain cancers. For Men, there is now solid research that shows the reduction of Testosterone levels due to the effects of plastic exposure. There is also a bunch of research to show that it is healthy for men to have high testosterone levels as it mitigates many potential health issues that gain power as T levels drop. Throw away your plastic training clothes and wear natural clothing to train plus you will reduce your need for Juice wink wink.....
Nanoplastics Can be Inhaled, Ingested, and Absorbed via the Skin
What makes nanoplastics particularly concerning is their ability to enter our bodies through multiple routes. Inhalation of nanoplastics is a major concern, as these particles can easily become airborne due to their tiny size. Once in the lungs they are so small they can cross the Air-Blood barrier and then circulate in the blood stream until they lodge in an internal organ or the brain. Ingestion is another route, as nanoplastics already contaminate water and food sources you are ingesting them daily. Some pass through with your waste however it is now known that they can cross the intestinal wall and enter the blood stream this way. Furthermore, nanoplastics can also be absorbed directly through the skin, especially when we come into physical contact with plastic-containing products like clothing.
With nanoplastics posing such a significant threat to our health and the environment, it becomes crucial to take action to minimize our exposure. If you are a Jiu Jitsu or Grappling athlete, Surfer, Runner or Gym Junkie, check out what your training clothes are made of. Chances are they contain mostly if not 100% synthetic/plastic fibres. Consider now the conditions created between your skin and the clothing that gets sweaty, hot and potentially exposed to Suns UV rays depending on your sport. These are all the elements that facilitate toxic intake via the skin. Actual Nanoplastic particles and/or the toxic chemicals that leach out of plastics.
Thankfully, stores like Alchemical are leading the way by offering alternatives to plastic clothing products. Alchemical specializes in eco-friendly and sustainable options that don't compromise on performance but help reduce plastic pollution and lower our risk of nanoplastic exposure.
By choosing products from Alchemical, you can make a positive impact on the planet while safeguarding your health. Alchemical offers a growing range of polyester-free clothing alternatives for training Jiu Jitsu and Grappling, Running, Working out or surfing. Also coming soon for every day life, Tee shirts and women's active wear. Alchemical take all the Polyester out and replace it with Natural alternatives like Hemp, Bamboo and Organic Cotton.
Additionally, supporting organizations and initiatives that work towards reducing plastic waste is a powerful way to contribute. Your choices now dictate the options next year. If you stop buying plastic clothing they will stop making it. By raising awareness of this invisible health issue we can all be more comfortable, natural and healthy.
So, the next time you're shopping, make a conscious decision to support stores like Alchemical that prioritize sustainability and offer products without the invisible toxic load of nanoplastics. Together, we can create a healthier future for ourselves and the generations to come.