The hidden threat to your bones (and brain)

The Editor -

The healthiest people tend to be the ones who adopt simple positive lifestyle habits throughout their day - not the ones who do the gruelling workouts and punish their bodies.

So with that in mind I want to share with you something that you might like to take on board. I read a pretty alarming report today and I feel this is something we can get on board with.

Plastics are everywhere - in the water we drink, the food we eat, the air we breathe. But these microscopic particles aren’t just an environmental concern - they’re a direct threat to your health, including your bone strength and healthy longevity,

Recent studies have uncovered alarming levels of microplastics in the human body, particularly in the brain. Researchers found that the average person’s frontal cortex may contain up to seven grams of plastic, with concentrations in brain tissue up to 30 times higher than in other organs. Even more concerning? People with dementia had 10 times the amount of microplastics compared to those without.

But the effects don’t stop at the brain. Microplastics and plastic-related chemicals (like phthalates) have been shown to directly affect bone health by:

  • Suppressing osteoblast activity – These are the cells responsible for building new bone. Without them working efficiently, your bones become weaker over time.

  • Inhibiting calcitonin secretion – This hormone helps counteract the effect of parathyroid hormone (PTH), which removes calcium from the bones when blood levels are low. Less calcitonin means more calcium loss from your bones.

  • Lowering bone density – Women with higher levels of phthalates (common in plastics) have been found to have reduced hip and femur bone mass, increasing their risk of osteoporosis.

What Can You Do?

Reducing your exposure to plastics doesn’t have to be overwhelming - small, simple changes can have a massive impact. Here’s where to start:

  • Ditch plastic water bottles – Use a high-quality stainless steel or glass bottle instead. Many plastic bottles contain microplastics that leach into your water.

  • Filter your drinking water – Tap water and even bottled water often contain microplastics. A high-quality filter can significantly reduce exposure.

  • Avoid heating food in plastic – Microwaving plastic containers releases harmful chemicals. Use glass or ceramic instead.

  • Choose fresh over packaged – Many packaged foods contain phthalates from plastic packaging. Opt for fresh, whole foods when possible.

  • Be mindful of personal care products – Many shampoos, lotions, and cosmetics contain microplastics. Look for clean, plastic-free alternatives.

  • Reduce seafood consumption – Studies have found high levels of micro- and nanoplastics in seafood, particularly shellfish.

The Bigger Picture

Plastics have only been widely used for about a century, yet their effects are already showing up in our bones, brains, and overall health. The good news? We have the power to minimise exposure and protect our long-term wellbeing.

Your body is designed to renew, rebuild, and thrive - but only when it’s given the right environment to do so. Making even a few changes today could help preserve your bone density, brain function, and overall vitality for years to come.

To strength, resilience, and a future free from hidden toxins!

SARAH CLOUGH | THE AGELESS MOVEMENT COACH