A new study published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis has shown that antioxidants found in fruits, vegetables and flowers could help protect against the harmful effects of microplastics, particularly on the reproductive system. Microplastics are tiny bits of plastic that come from both new consumer products and the breakdown of larger plastics.  

These particles carry dangerous chemicals like BPA and phthalates, which can harm the body in many ways, including affecting hormones, fertility and even increasing the risk of heart disease and cancer. Several studies revealed traces of microplastics throughout the human body, including in semen, ovarian tissues, placentas and even breast milk. 

The new research focuses on how anthocyanins (a group of antioxidants found in red, blue and purple fruits and veggies) could counteract some of the harmful effects from microplastics. In men, for instance, microplastics can reduce sperm quality and count, but anthocyanins have the potential to protect the blood-testis barrier. In experiments, mice treated with anthocyanins showed improved sperm quality, including better motility and a higher sperm count. 

Microplastics have also been shown to interfere with hormone levels in women, including estrogen. The study showed antioxidants found in anthocyanins may help protect hormone receptors from the damaging effects of plastic chemicals. More testing revealed that anthocyanins helped restore normal hormone levels and preserved ovarian function, suggesting that these compounds could potentially help women maintain fertility. 

With many of us exposed to plastics in our daily lives, turning to plant-based solutions like anthocyanins offers a promising way to reduce the damage. It provides hope that alongside our own actions to reduce microplastics in our daily lives, there are also other effective ways we can address the issue.

Story first published on The Guardian.

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