Why I Hate
Plastic
And You Should, Too

Because It's Wrecking Your Health

It's Worse Than You Think

Plastics Are Bad?

They're everywhere

Yes, I know that plastics are an integral part of modern life. From food packaging to medical devices, they are everywhere. Yet, beneath the convenience and versatility of plastics lies a growing concern for human health.

In this article, we will explore the lesser-known but critical threats that plastics pose to our well-being, shedding light on the often-overlooked dangers of this ubiquitous material.

Optimizing health

I (AJ James) am a biohacker whose sole mission is to maximize my health and minimize my health risks. I discovered that one of the most significant risks posed to human well-being is plastic and yet almost no one knows this.

Endocrine Disruption

Messing With Your Hormones

Hurting Your Health

Your harsh reality check
Plastics, seemingly harmless in their solid form, contain a trove of chemicals that can have detrimental effects on human health. One of the most alarming concerns is endocrine disruption. (1)

Phthalates

These plastic additives are used to increase flexibility and durability in various products. However, they can leach into food, beverages, and even the air.

These endocrine disruptors can affect your ability to deal with stress, can precipitate a lack of sleep, and may even lead to premature aging.

Phthalates have been linked to hormone imbalances, reproductive issues, and developmental problems, particularly in children. (2)

Bisphenol A (BPA)

BPA, found in many plastics, can migrate into the contents of containers made from this material. It has been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, prostate cancer, and fertility issues. Governments worldwide have taken steps to limit its use. (3)

Microplastics: A Silent Invasion

They're In Your Body

Right Now!

You probably didn't even know this

Beyond the visible plastic products we encounter daily, there's an invisible threat lurking – microplastics.

These tiny plastic particles, often measuring less than 5 millimeters, have made their way into our environment and, consequently, our bodies. Keywords: "microplastics in the body," "microplastic contamination."

It's okay to be angry, scared, and alarmed. These emotions are correct. This is a serious problem.

It's in your food

Contaminating Our Food: Microplastics have infiltrated our food chain, from seafood to salt, from beer to broccoli.. Studies have shown that we unknowingly ingest these particles with our meals. The health implications of this consumption remain a growing concern. (4)

Most biohackers are moving back to natural, organic food in its most unprocessed forms in order to eliminate these nasty additions to our diet.

The air we breathe

Microplastics are also airborne, leading to inhalation risks. Even in the great outdoors, as we breathe, we may be taking in these minuscule plastic particles, which can potentially damage lung tissue and cause inflammation. (5)

Toxic Chemicals in Plastic

The Ultimate Chemical Cocktail

Poison Abounds

Even the useful things you need have been corrupted

Plastics often contain a cocktail of toxic chemicals, each with its own set of health risks.

Flame Retardants

Many plastics used in electronics and furniture are treated with flame retardants. These chemicals can accumulate in our bodies and have been linked to thyroid dysfunction and neurodevelopmental issues in children. (6)

PVC

A Hidden Hazard: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), found in a variety of products, can release toxic chlorine gas when burned. Inhaling this gas can lead to respiratory problems and, in severe cases, fatalities.

So, just with these plastic compounds, we see the danger of neurodevelopment issues, respiratory problems, and thyroid issues. It's hard to biohack our way out of this chemical nightmare.

Disposable Plastics and Air Pollution

We're Even Breathing Them?

Afraid So!

This makes it really difficult to eliminate

The convenience of single-use plastics has come at a significant cost to our environment and health. When plastic waste is incinerated, it releases harmful chemicals and greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

Airborne Toxins

The burning of plastic waste contributes to air pollution, leading to respiratory issues and an increased risk of heart disease. These airborne toxins affect communities living near waste incineration facilities disproportionately.

Carbon Footprint

The production and disposal of plastics also contribute to climate change. The petrochemical industry, which manufactures plastic, is a major emitter of greenhouse gases.

As someone with a lifestyle that revolves around improving my health and reversing aging with every tool I have, I'll admit, that it's disheartening to know that even with our best efforts, we may still have to breathe in small amounts of these toxic, health and endocrine disrupting compounds.

They can cause so much incremental damage to your health by affecting your lifestyle. As someone who takes biohacking my sleep to a whole new level, the idea that these toxins are affecting my precious sleeping routine really grinds my gears.

Why I Hate Plastics

Conclusion

I admit, they're useful

Plastics, once celebrated for their convenience and versatility which they inarguably have been, have cast a shadow over human health.

From endocrine disruption caused by plastic additives to the silent invasion of microplastics in our bodies, the hidden hazards of plastics are undeniable.

It is crucial to raise awareness of these dangers, explore safer alternatives, and advocate for responsible plastic use to safeguard our health and the health of future generations. In a world where plastics are ingrained in our lives, we must confront the hidden perils they pose to our well-being.

In summary

Plastics have brought about a revolution in many aspects of modern life, but they also pose significant health hazards that are often overlooked. From endocrine disruption caused by chemicals like phthalates and BPA to the infiltration of microplastics into our food and air, plastics have become an insidious threat to human health.

Additionally, toxic chemicals in plastics and the air pollution caused by plastic waste incineration further compound these risks. It is imperative that we acknowledge these dangers, seek safer alternatives, and work towards responsible plastic use to protect our health and the environment.

I think I hate plastics more having researched and written this article, than before I began and I hope it catches on.