Microplastics are not just "foreign bodies"
Micro- and nanoplastics do not only have a mechanical effect in the body – they come with a chemical load: Additives such as plasticizers, flame retardants, and stabilizers can be released from the particles and interfere with the hormone balance. Animal and cell studies show that microplastics can influence the production, release, and effect of hormones, particularly in the areas of the thyroid, sex hormones, and stress axes [Ragusa et al., “Plasticenta: First evidence of microplastics in human placenta,” Environment International,].
Endocrine disruptors on plastic surfaces
Many plastic additives belong to the so-called endocrine disruptors – substances that can have hormone-like effects or block hormone receptors. These include bisphenols and certain phthalates, which bind to estrogen and androgen receptors and can thus affect reproduction, pubertal development, and metabolic processes [Gore et al., “EHP Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals,” Environmental Health Perspectives,]. Microplastic particles serve as carriers: they transport these chemicals through the body and increase the contact surface with biology.
Inflammation as a "guideline" for hormonal disorders
Contact with microplastics activates immune cells and can trigger local and systemic inflammatory reactions. Chronically elevated inflammatory markers are considered an important amplifier of hormonal imbalances – for example, in the area of stress hormones (cortisol), insulin sensitivity, and thyroid regulation [Jeong et al., “Microplastics and endocrine disruption,” Journal of Hazardous Materials,]. This turns an environmental problem into an endocrinology topic.
What this means for everyday life
The study situation clearly shows: microplastics are not purely a "gastrointestinal issue". Particles have already been detected in blood, placenta, and lymphatic tissue – i.e., in areas where hormone signals react particularly sensitively to disturbances [Leslie et al., “Discovery and quantification of plastic particle pollution in human blood,” Environment International,]. Although many details are still being researched, the trend is clear: the lower the plastic load, the lower the risk of hormonal dysregulation.
How SYDROS takes action here
SYDROS filter technology aims to remove micro- and nanoplastics and the chemicals bound to them from drinking water as early as possible, before they enter the body. By combining fine-pored filtration and adsorption, the particle count is reduced – and thus one of the avoidable sources of hormonally active exposure in everyday life.
Hormone balance doesn't just start in the glands – but with the water we drink every day.
More information at sydros.de.
