Plastic has become an integral part of our daily lives. From food packaging to water bottles and credit cards, it is used almost everywhere. While the convenience of plastic is undeniable, it has an adverse impact on our environment and health.

The general public is aware of how plastic pollution harms the environment. However, the unknown harms of plastic consumption on our heart are not well-known.

How Does Plastic Affect Our Heart?

Research studies have revealed that plastic consumption has far-reaching effects on our heart.

The chemicals present in plastic, such as bisphenol-A (BPA), phthalates, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) have an adverse impact on our cardiovascular system, including:.

1. Increased Risk of Heart Diseases

The chemicals present in plastic are toxic to the heart muscles. Long-term exposure to these chemicals has been linked with an increased risk of heart diseases, including heart attack, hypertension, and stroke.

In a study conducted on Taiwanese adults, higher levels of PVC metabolites in urine were associated with a higher risk of hypertension and increased rates of carotid artery stenosis, a condition where the arteries that supply blood to the brain become narrow.

2. Impaired Blood Vessels Functioning

Our blood vessels play a vital role in maintaining the blood flow to different organs, including the heart. However, the toxic chemicals present in plastic impair the functioning of blood vessels.

Longer exposure to BPA has been linked to endothelial dysfunction, which hampers the blood vessels’ ability to deliver blood to the heart, and leads to an increased risk of heart attacks and stroke.

3. Inflammation and Oxidative Stress

Plastic consumption triggers inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. The chemicals present in plastic promote inflammation that increases the production of free radicals.

The free radicals damage the cell walls, DNA, and proteins, leading to cell death. This chain reaction triggers inflammation and oxidative stress, leading to chronic heart ailments.

4. Altered Heart Rate Variability (HRV)

The heart rate variability (HRV) is an essential physiological marker of the heart. It determines the timing of cardiac impulses during a heartbeat and modulates the heart’s response to changing internal and external demands.

Toxic chemicals present in plastic alter the HRV patterns and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

5. Plaque Accumulation in Arteries

The toxic chemicals present in plastic hinder the blood flow to the heart and damage the arterial walls. This leads to plaque accumulation in the walls of the arteries, obstructing the blood flow, and increasing the risk of heart attacks and stroke.

A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association revealed that higher serum levels of BPA in the body were linked to a higher risk of coronary artery disease in postmenopausal women.

6. Increased Risk of Endocrine Disruption

Plastic consumption has been linked to endocrine disruption. Endocrine disruption occurs when the chemicals present in plastic interfere with the hormonal system, leading to impaired hormone production and signaling in the body.

Endocrine disruption has been associated with an increased risk of heart ailments, including hypertension, atherosclerosis, and other cardiovascular diseases.

Ways to Reduce Plastic Consumption

Reducing plastic consumption is crucial to promote heart health and reduce the risk of chronic heart ailments. Some of the ways to reduce plastic consumption are:.

1. Use Glass or Stainless-Steel Containers

Instead of using plastic containers, use glass or stainless-steel containers to store food and drinks. These materials are safe and environmentally friendly, reducing the risk of plastic pollution and promoting heart health.

2. Avoid Microwaving Plastic Containers

When exposed to heat, the plastic chemicals leach into the food or drink, increasing the risk of heart ailments. Avoid microwaving plastic containers and choose glass or ceramic containers instead.

3. Use Reusable Water Bottles

Avoid using single-use plastic bottles and switch to reusable water bottles made of glass or stainless steel. These bottles are safe and help in reducing plastic waste, promoting heart health.

4. Choose Biodegradable and Eco-Friendly Products

Choose biodegradable and eco-friendly products instead of plastic products. These products are safe and reduce the risk of plastic pollution, promoting heart health.

Conclusion

Plastic consumption has significant adverse effects on our health, including the heart. The toxic chemicals present in plastic increase the risk of heart ailments such as hypertension, stroke, and heart attacks.

Reducing plastic consumption is crucial to reducing the risk of chronic heart ailments and promoting heart health. By choosing eco-friendly and biodegradable products, avoiding microwaving plastic containers, using glass or stainless-steel containers, and using reusable water bottles, we can reduce plastic pollution and safeguard our heart health.