A recent pilot study from UCLA has shed light on a potentially concerning source of microplastic exposure: chewing gum. The research, which is awaiting peer review, indicates that chewing just one stick of gum can release thousands of microplastic particles into your saliva. This finding adds to the growing body of evidence highlighting the pervasive nature of microplastic pollution and its potential impact on human health. The study, presented at a meeting of the American Chemical Society, analyzed saliva samples from a subject who chewed on ten different brands of gum, both synthetic and natural, for four minutes each. Surprisingly, the researchers found that both types of gum released similar amounts of microplastics. On average, a single stick of gum released up to 600 microplastic shards per gram. This means that someone who chews 180 pieces of gum per year could be ingesting approximately 30,000 microplastic particles. While this number may seem alarming, it's important to put it into perspective. According to the researchers, the amount of microplastics released from chewing gum is still less than that found in other common sources, such as bottled water. A liter of bottled water, for example, can contain an average of 240,000 microplastics. However, the unique aspect of gum is that it is directly consumed, unlike other sources where microplastics might be incidentally ingested. The health implications of ingesting microplastics are still largely unknown. While some experts believe that most swallowed microplastics would simply pass through the body without causing harm, other research suggests a link between microplastic exposure and various health problems, including an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and blood clots in the brain. The lack of definitive evidence underscores the need for further research in this area. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the health risks, there are steps you can take to minimize your exposure to microplastics from chewing gum. The researchers suggest chewing the same piece of gum for a longer period, as most of the microplastics are released within the first two minutes. By avoiding the habit of frequently replacing your gum, you can potentially reduce the number of microplastics you ingest. Of course, proper disposal of chewing gum is also crucial to prevent further environmental contamination. Ultimately, the study serves as a reminder of the widespread presence of microplastics in our environment and the importance of understanding their potential impact on human health. While more research is needed to fully assess the risks, taking simple precautions can help minimize exposure and contribute to a healthier future. The key is to stay informed and make conscious choices about the products we consume and how we dispose of them.
