The effect of microplastics on the body: weight gain, skin rashes, thinning hair (7 photos + 1 video)
Microplastics, found in a variety of everyday items from chewing gum to tea bags, have become part of our lives. These tiny pieces, less than five millimetres long, are not biodegradable, meaning they can last for hundreds or even thousands of years. These images show the devastating impact these tiny plastic fragments have on our bodies. 
Experts at BusinessWaste.co.uk have used artificial intelligence to create images of how microplastics affect humans.
And it’s a grim picture of our future, from weight gain and thinning hair to eczema-like rashes and extreme fatigue.
“While research into the health impacts of microplastics is still in its early stages, there are already a number of worrying effects. Our images build on this research and show the frightening implications. We hope the images will make people think and take notice of this serious issue,” said Mark Hall, plastic waste expert at BusinessWaste.co.uk.
The scientists looked at the results of studies on the effects of microplastics at different levels: low, medium and high.
“Unfortunately, microplastics are present in abundance in our environment, polluting the air we breathe and the food we eat. We can't solve this problem until we start to see plastic waste as a serious threat and make efforts to reduce our dependence on this material," Mr Hall added.
Low Impact 
This is exposure through food, drink and the environment. According to BusinessWaste.co.uk, in this case, most of the symptoms will be internal. Mild changes in the skin, such as dryness, redness and irritation, may be due to endocrine system disruption.
There may also be some changes in bowel function, including bloating, stomach discomfort and indigestion.
In addition, even mild inflammation can cause a feeling of fatigue.
Medium Exposure 
If you regularly consume processed foods, seafood, and often use synthetic fabrics, then you are probably in the medium range of microplastic exposure. This can manifest itself in the form of skin irritation, red eyes, and signs of premature aging. You may also experience a mild cough and wheezing.
The chemicals released from microplastics can disrupt your hormones, leading to weight fluctuations and digestive upset.
Finally, you may feel constantly tired and unable to think clearly.
High level of exposure 
People who come into contact with microplastics for a long time experience serious negative health effects.
“This can happen at work, due to poor quality drinking water, constant use of synthetic fabrics in everyday life and clothing,” experts explain.
Skin problems include chronic inflammation, rashes, or eczema-like conditions. In addition, decreased lung function can cause bluish or purple skin.
Microplastics in the brain can cause slow reflexes, memory problems, confusion, and possibly hand tremors.
Other side effects include unexplained weight loss or gain, thinning hair, and skin discoloration.
How to Reduce Microplastic Exposure
Dana Zhaksylykova, an environmental researcher at Nazarbayev University, shared tips on how to protect yourself from exposure to harmful particles.
"Microplastics are everywhere and have recently been found in every organ of people tested! Many of these particles enter the environment from items we use every day, such as plastic water bottles and 'paper' cups," she says.
The expert advises using only glass or metal bottles for water and never heating up leftovers in plastic containers in the microwave.
She also recommends using only wooden cutting boards, avoiding plastic utensils, "paper" cups and plates, and choosing loose tea over tea bags.
Finally, Zhaksylykova advises buying products with a minimum amount of plastic packaging and using your own shopping bags.
