The Microplastic Menace: Why It's Time to Rethink Our Water Habits
We all drink water, and most us are aware it takes up the majority of our body. How would you feel if there was something in that clear liquid we were unable to see? Did you know that our oceans, rivers, and even tap water are teeming with tiny carcinogenic invaders? I'm talking about microplastics - those pesky particles that are turning our waterways and some of our bodies, into a plastic soup.
Microplastics are itty-bitty pieces of plastic, less than a millimeter in size, that come from broken-down plastic waste, synthetic fabrics, and even your favorite facial scrub.
These tiny terrorists are not just floating around; they're making their way into our food chain and even our bodies. Studies have found microplastics in human organs and, alarmingly, in the placenta of newborn babies
The relationship between microplastics and cancer is still being studied, but there are concerns that the chemicals associated with microplastics may have carcinogenic effects. Microplastics can carry harmful chemicals such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), bisphenol A (BPA), and phthalates, which are known to disrupt the endocrine system and have been linked to various health issues, including cancer.
When microplastics enter the body, either through ingestion or inhalation, these chemicals can leach out and potentially cause cellular damage.
Additionally, the physical presence of microplastics in the body could lead to inflammation, which is a known risk factor for cancer development.
Now, let's talk bottled water. You might think you're dodging the microplastic bullet by sipping from a plastic bottle, but guess what? Bottled water has been found to contain hundreds of thousands of these microscopic menaces [Microplastics: The long legacy left behind by plastic pollution](https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/microplastics-long-legacy-left-behind-plastic-pollution). So, when you're chugging down that bottled water, you might be swallowing more than you bargained for.
But don't fret yet! There's a simple solution to reduce your microplastic intake - boil your tap water or purified clean water. Boiling water for 5 minutes can remove at least 80% of the microplastics it contains.
For an even cleaner and tastier sip, try storing your boiled water in a copper or clay decanter. These natural materials not only look chic on your countertop but also have purifying properties that can further enhance the quality of your water.
If you're not ready to part ways with the convenience of bottled water, opt for brands that use glass bottles. Glass is not only recyclable but also free from the microplastic worries that plague their plastic counterparts.
Ever thought of taking your water game to the next level? There has been a lot of research done in the last few decades about Life Energy in Water by 4th Phase Water Tech. Pvt. Ltd
Jiva Water Devices bring back life energy into water. There are an array of devices for different applications, ranging from personal and home to large scale agricultural use. All are named after the different rivers in India.
For drinking water, use Yami the portable, hand-held Device which is a sleek stainless steel device. Water is tp passed through before being served. These devices re-energize water, bringing it back to its natural and original state. While much of the scientific research behind this is still in its nascent stage, it's a mind-blowing possibility for those looking to explore the energetic properties of water.
So, there you have it. It's time to ditch plastic bottles and embrace cleaner, healthier water sources. By making these small changes, you can help protect our planet and your health. Cheers to that!
Tumi. M, JIVA user and Fitness Adept., Berkeley, CA
References:
[Microplastics: The long legacy left behind by plastic pollution]
https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/microplastics-long-legacy-left-behind-plastic-pollution
[Boiling tap water can remove 80 per cent of the microplastics in it | New Scientist]
Written by:
Krithika Prasad