A recent study revealed that microplastic particles surrounding us in daily life may cause profound disturbances in the balance of gut bacteria.

Researchers found that plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters can slightly but significantly alter the behavior of gut bacteria, raising new concerns about the health effects of daily exposure to these particles.

These changes closely resemble microbial patterns associated with depression and bowel cancer.

The study, published at the 2025 European Medical Conference on Gastrointestinal Diseases and led by the “CB Med” research center in Austria, involved exposing samples of human gut bacteria to common types of microplastics such as polystyrene and polyethylene—materials found in bottled water, household dust, and many consumer products.

Researchers observed that although the total number of bacteria remained stable, the intestinal environment became more acidic, and chemical levels of several important substances, including valeric acid, lysine, and lactic acid, changed—similar to alterations recorded in psychological disorders and gastrointestinal diseases.

The researchers explained that microplastics may create chemical and physical environments favoring the growth of certain harmful bacteria, and biofilms can form on their surfaces, providing a new habitat for unwanted microbes.

Additionally, plastics carry chemicals that may directly interfere with the vital processes of beneficial bacteria.

This warning gains special importance given the widespread presence of microplastics, with discoveries of their presence inside vegetables after ultrafine particles penetrated plant roots through soil.

Researchers emphasize that despite the need for further studies, growing evidence points to the necessity of preventive measures, as gut bacteria play a pivotal role not only in digestion but also in immunity and mental health.

Reducing plastic use is a practical step that can help protect our health in the long term.