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A Simple Way To Protect Yourself Against Microplastics (& It's Already In Your Kitchen)

Ava Durgin
Author:
July 11, 2025
Ava Durgin
Assistant Health Editor
By Ava Durgin
Assistant Health Editor
Ava Durgin is the Assistant Health Editor at mindbodygreen. She is a recent graduate from Duke University where she received a B.A. in Global Health and Psychology. In her previous work, Ava served as the Patient Education Lead for Duke Hospital affiliated programs, focusing on combating food insecurity and childhood obesity.
Image by Nadine Greeff / Stocksy
July 11, 2025

the long game

This article is from our longevity-focused newsletter, the long game, where we help you stay up to date on the latest research in the health space, with actionable, low-lift recommendations to put those learnings into practice. For access to our latest editions as soon as they drop, you can subscribe right here.

Microplastics are becoming a growing concern, and while we can take steps to reduce our exposure—like opting for glass over plastic, ditching tea bags, and avoiding microwaving plastic—it's nearly impossible to eliminate them completely. That's why I was thrilled to discover recent research showing how our diet can help protect us from the harmful effects. Keep reading to find out how!

And be sure to check out this article to learn how fruits and veggies can help guard against the reproductive harm of plastic.

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A secret weapon against microplastics?

Microplastics are infiltrating our bodies, including our reproductive organs. But nature might have the answer—anthocyanins, the antioxidants in colorful fruits and vegetables, may offer protection against this hidden threat.1

Here’s what the latest research shows:

  • Microplastics and nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) are found in human tissues and act as endocrine disruptors, affecting fertility and hormonal balance.
  • Anthocyanins, found in foods like blueberries and red cabbage, may protect reproductive health by binding to hormone receptors and reducing inflammation.
  • Cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G), a specific anthocyanin, helps protect the ovaries, testes, and other reproductive tissues from plastic-induced damage.
  • Anthocyanins support detox pathways and combat oxidative stress caused by microplastic exposure.

If you want to help protect your body from the damaging effects of microplastics, start adding more anthocyanin-rich foods to your diet. Think blueberries, blackberries, red cabbage, purple sweet potatoes, and eggplant!

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Inside the “gut-brain” connection

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Cleaner & Greener

The problem: Harsh chemicals in makeup remover

Many conventional makeup removers contain a mix of surfactants, solubilizers, and emulsifiers designed to break down oils and pigments. However, these formulas often include potentially harmful additives such as parabens (linked to endocrine disruption), phthalates (which may interfere with hormone regulation), and sulfates (which can strip the skin’s natural barrier).2

Farmacy’s makeup remover balm melts away even the most stubborn mascara without stripping my skin, thanks to nourishing ingredients like sunflower oil, ginger root, and papaya enzymes. Plus, the jar is 100% recyclable, so it’s better for both my skin and the planet. If you’re looking for a gentle, effective way to cleanse without the chemicals, this is it.

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