The Ubiquity of Plastics

Plastics have infiltrated every aspect of our lives. Since the invention of synthetic plastic in 1907—defined as containing no natural molecules—its proliferation across the globe has been astonishing.

Indeed, plastics have been discovered even in the most isolated regions, such as Antarctica and the ocean's deepest trenches. Unfortunately, most plastics are not biodegradable and will continue to adversely affect the environments they reach.

CNN highlighted a troubling statistic: "Globally, we are consuming an average of 5 grams of plastic each week, equivalent to a credit card." This plastic contamination arises from "microplastics," particles smaller than five millimeters, which contaminate our food, drinking water, and even the air we breathe.

These minuscule particles can come from various sources, such as synthetic clothing fibers, microbeads in personal care products, and larger plastic items that degrade into smaller pieces when discarded.

From an early age, children play with plastic toys, and as they chew on them, tiny bits inevitably enter their bodies. This is particularly concerning because even small amounts of plastic can disrupt their endocrine systems and affect their growth.

However, toys represent just a fraction of the issue. The prevalence of plastics permeates every facet of life—found in vehicles, grocery stores, and food packaging.

For instance, a recent study revealed the presence of PFAS, chemicals harmful to the liver and thyroid, in the packaging of popular fast-food chains like McDonald's and Taco Bell.

Within our homes, materials such as polyvinyls, polyurethanes, and acrylics are often present in wall paints. Though relatively safe once dried, these materials are significant sources of microplastic pollution in oceans. Estimates suggest that annual emissions of paint microplastics could reach as high as 1.5 to 2.25 million tonnes.

BPA plastics, commonly found in bottles and food containers, can leach into our food and beverages when exposed to heat, such as in hot cars or under sunlight.

Another alarming fact is that receipts printed at stores are heated to a degree that can release BPA microplastics, which can then be absorbed through the skin upon contact.

Next time, consider asking for no receipt.

Unwholesome Foods

One of the most prevalent food items to be cautious about is bread. Over the last century, scientists have engineered new grains to withstand pests and weather, striving to feed a burgeoning global population.

While they succeeded in feeding many, they also contributed to rising obesity rates. Although only 13% of the global population is classified as obese, a staggering 42.4% of Americans fall into this category.

It is no coincidence that the American diet heavily features industrialized white bread. It's disheartening to see that many Americans have been misled by institutions they trusted, such as the USDA, which historically promoted a carbohydrate-heavy diet while downplaying the importance of healthy fats and proteins.

Contrary to outdated beliefs, fats from meats and nuts are essential for health, as our cells are largely composed of lipids.

Modern bread is often laden with unhealthy ingredients like high-fructose corn syrup and vegetable oil. High-fructose corn syrup, prevalent in fast foods, has an addictive quality and poses numerous health risks, which is why it is favored for its low cost.

Vegetable oil, which constitutes around 20% of American calorie intake, became widely used during World War II when butter was scarce. This oil, derived from heavily processed seeds, poses dangers when heated, leading to oxidation that can trigger inflammation and increase the risk of heart disease.

Jeff Nobbs succinctly stated the peril of diets high in vegetable oil: "Consuming vegetable oil increases your risk of death more than physical inactivity and heavy drinking."

Trans fats, commonly found in fried and processed foods, are the most detrimental type of fat and have recently been mandated on nutritional labels due to their impact on cholesterol and heart disease risk.

Finally, we must address artificial sweeteners, which are nothing more than chemicals. Aspartame, found in diet sodas and various food products, disrupts the brain's natural craving for sweetness and promotes inflammation.

Other harmful artificial sweeteners include Splenda and Sweet’N Low, which are far worse than sugar itself.

To promote better health, I recommend drastically reducing bread consumption, avoiding vegetable oils and high-fructose corn syrup, and steering clear of products containing artificial sweeteners. Instead, incorporate healthier options such as meats, fish, eggs, dairy, vegetables, and fruits into your diet.

Additional Concerns

In addition to the aforementioned dangers, there are other potential hazards worth considering, even if their effects aren't conclusively proven.

Take fluoride, for instance, which is often added to tap water. Initially discovered in 1901, fluoride was soon recognized for its benefits to dental health. By 1945, it was introduced into the water supply in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Without sounding alarmist, I refer to credible sources: Medical News Today reported in 2017 that prenatal exposure to fluoride could lead to negative cognitive outcomes and that excessive fluoride can harm the parathyroid gland, causing uncontrolled hormone secretion.

Fluoride exposure may also contribute to a range of health issues, including cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, reproductive problems, and even ADHD.

Is it just me, or do these risks seem unwise to ignore?

Consider investing in a water filter to eliminate fluoride and using fluoride-free toothpaste for added protection.

Speaking of water: hormones administered to industrially raised livestock, as well as those in birth control pills, can contaminate our water supply. This excess estrogen can disrupt hormonal balance in both men and women.

Finally, we must acknowledge the pervasive threat of air pollution. ABC News reported on April 4th, 2022, that "the U.N. health agency states that nearly everyone in the world breathes air that fails to meet its quality standards, urging action to reduce fossil fuel consumption, which generates pollutants linked to respiratory and cardiovascular issues."

For years, industries have prioritized profit over environmental protection, creating a hostile world for humanity.

The issues I’ve discussed represent just a fraction of the broader concerns. In conclusion, the quest for efficiency in building the modern world has come at the expense of quality—quality that has safeguarded our survival.

As we navigate a world rife with hidden dangers, awareness becomes your most vital tool in protecting your health.

Be vigilant about what threatens your well-being.

Michael Snellen