Gut microbes in managing the microplastics

Dr. Yvonne Burkart, a toxicologist, described the latest research in 2025 regarding the role of gut microbes in managing the microplastics we consume daily.

The problem of microplastic accumulation: On average, we ingest about 4 grams of microplastics per week from various sources (drinking water, food, air), which the body cannot break down. They can accumulate in various organs such as blood, lungs, placenta, and even in ovarian follicular fluid.

New research: Microbes help break down plastic: Studies in mice found that two strains of probiotic bacteria, Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus plantarum, have hydrophobic binding properties, increasing the rate of plastic excretion in feces by up to 34% and reducing gastrointestinal residue by up to 67%.

The importance of gut health: Maintaining good gut health and a strong intestinal wall is crucial because if the gut is inflamed or has leaky gut, plastic can easily enter the bloodstream. Factors that destroy these microbes include unnecessary antibiotic use and highly processed foods. And accumulated stress.

3-Step Recommendations for Immediate Action:

1. Reduce sources of plastic: Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers, plastic tea bags, and plastic bottled water.

2. Eat fermented foods: Add foods with natural probiotics such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and miso to increase beneficial microorganisms.

3. Maintain gut microbiome: Reduce unnecessary antibiotic use and reduce processed foods to maintain the population of beneficial microorganisms.

Some probiotic microorganisms have mechanisms to help eliminate microplastics from the body, as indicated in the video, as follows:

Hydrophobic Binding: Two probiotic strains identified in research, Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus plantarum, have chemical properties on their cell surface that can attract and bind to microplastic particles.

Clumping: When bacteria bind to microplastics, they clump together into larger masses, making it difficult for these particles to be absorbed through the intestinal wall into the bloodstream.

Excretion: Once plastic is clustered with bacteria, it is excreted. The body can more easily excrete these particles through feces. Studies have shown that this can increase the rate of microplastic excretion by up to 34% and reduce the amount remaining in the digestive system by up to 67%.

In addition, probiotics also help reduce inflammation in the intestines caused by the accumulation of microplastics, thus supporting a healthy gut lining and reducing leaky gut syndrome.