The Bacteria That Eats Microplastics

Everybody knows this by now. Microplastics are everywhere.

And they aren’t just in our oceans. They’re in us.

Recent studies have found microplastics in human blood, lungs, placentas, testicles, and even breast milk.

On average, the typical person consumes a credit card’s worth of plastic every week—about 5 grams—mostly through drinking water, food packaging, and airborne dust.

We have no enzyme that breaks them down. We don’t know how to remove them.

And worst of all—they disrupt hormones, inflame the gut, and accumulate over time.

But there’s some good news…

Your gut microbiome might be able to help.

Certain strains of beneficial bacteria have been shown to bind to and escort microplastics out of your body.

The main ones are:

Lactobacillus – Helps break down polymers and reduce plastic-induced oxidative stress.

Bifidobacterium – Supports gut lining integrity and binds toxic particles, including microplastics.

Lactobacillus plantarum – This strain is especially powerful. It can trap and neutralize plastic particles, while rebuilding gut health at the same time.

These bacteria don’t just heal the gut—they actively detox your system.

So, where do you get them?

Most people go straight to supplements for these—and that can be helpful when dosed correctly.

But I always recommend real food first, especially when it comes to probiotics.

You can find these strains in:

• Sourdough bread (especially when naturally fermented)

• Raw sauerkraut and kimchi

• Organic kefir and yogurt (made from raw or grass-fed milk)

• Fermented pickles (not vinegar-based—look for brined)

• Miso and natto

Each of these not only provides beneficial microbes—but also the enzymes and co-factors needed to help them thrive.

This is another reason to load up on fermented foods.

You can’t fully escape microplastics—but these will definitely help.

Until next time,

Kashif Khan

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Information on this site is provided for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical advice from your physician or other medical professional. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your regular healthcare provider.