Friday Q&A: microplastics; infrared saunas; yoga versus pilates; & tinnitus
❤️ A medley of your questions ❤️
ICYMI 👉
The first question (on microplastics) is free for all subscribers. Questions 2-4 (on infrared saunas; yoga vs. pilates; & tinnitus) are for paid subscribers only. If you would like a paid subscription but it’s not in your budget, please message me directly.
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Disclaimer: The views expressed here are entirely my own. They do not reflect those of my employer, nor are they a substitute for advice from your personal physician.
QUESTION #1: MICROPLASTICS
I have been reading about the harmful effects of plastic products. Am I in trouble from all the bottled water I’ve had and microwaving of Tupperware over the years? Yikes!
-Sheri
Dear Sheri,
The short answer: We don’t know for sure, but it’s probably best to limit your exposure to microplastics (MPs). The longer answer: The WHO isn’t convinced of the danger, at least through drinking water: “At this point, no data suggests overt health concerns associated with exposure to microplastic particles through drinking-water.”
That said, the absence of evidence is not evidence of absence. And a new study, published this week by researchers with Columbia University, found that bottled water contains somewhere between 10 to 100 times more microplastics than previously thought. Some of those likely end up in our bodies.
What are microplastics? Exactly as they sound: pieces of plastic measuring anywhere from 5 mm down to tiny microscopic particles that can enter our air, water, and food supplies. Exposure to microplastics is unavoidable. The most common microplastics in the environment are microfibers, the largest source of which is synthetic fibers (e.g., laundry!)
Why does this matter? It’s possible that MPs can be detrimental to our health—by increasing inflammation, disrupting cellular function, and interfering with hormone balance. More research is needed to understand the mechanism for potential toxicities.
How to avoid microplastics? Switch to stainless steel or glass water bottles, aluminum foil over plastic wrap for leftovers, and skip the plastic water pitchers and try glass (like this one) instead. Swap out plastic dishwasher detergent for powder. And please don’t heat or microwave your plastic. (I’ve done it for years and I’m still decently healthy, but it’s never too late to make a change!)
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QUESTION #2: INFRARED SAUNAS
A lot of my friends are into Infrared saunas. What do you think of them? Can they help with energy and weight loss? That is what I hear.
- Kathy
Dear Kathy,
I’m skeptical at best.
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