Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic in the environment. Scientists already know that these particles contaminate drinking water and oceans. Now, researchers are studying how microplastics affect human health. A recent study focused on polyethylene, a plastic used in food packaging and beverage cups.
The study showed that polyethylene can cause fatty liver disease. Fatty liver disease is a condition where extra fat accumulates in liver cells. This problem affects many people around the world. The damage is even worse for people who eat an unhealthy diet with burgers and sodas.
Researchers from two American universities carried out the study. They discovered that polyethylene changes how the liver repairs itself. The research team plans to study other microplastics in the future.
Difficult words
- contaminate — to make something dirty, unsafe, or impure
- accumulate — to collect or build up over timeaccumulates
- disease — an illness that affects the body or mind
- damage — harm done to something or someone
- repair — to fix or make something healthy againrepairs
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you try to reduce plastic in your daily life? Why or why not?
- What are some healthy foods you like to eat instead of burgers and sodas?
- How can people use less plastic packaging when buying food?
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