Dr. Luka Kovač, the brilliant yet brooding emergency room physician, takes a deep breath before addressing the camera, his Croatian accent lending a weight of authority to his words.
“Microplastics are everywhere—our water, our food, even in the air we breathe. If you want to minimize your exposure, you must be disciplined. Here’s what I do:”
- Drink filtered water – “I don’t trust bottled water. It’s ironic, but many plastic bottles release microplastics into the very water they contain. I use a high-quality water filter at home and carry a stainless-steel bottle.”
- Avoid plastic food containers – “Microwaving food in plastic is a mistake. Heat accelerates the release of microplastics into your food. Use glass, stainless steel, or ceramic whenever possible.”
- Eat whole, unprocessed foods – “Highly processed foods often have more microplastic contamination from packaging and industrial processing. Fresh produce and homemade meals are safer.”
- Be mindful of seafood consumption – “Fish and shellfish, especially those that feed near the ocean surface, are loaded with microplastics. If you eat seafood, choose wisely, and don’t overdo it.”
- Choose natural fabrics – “Polyester and synthetic fibers shed microplastics when washed. Wear cotton, wool, or linen instead. If you must use synthetics, wash them in a special filter bag.”
- Reduce overall plastic use – “Less plastic in your life means less chance for exposure. Avoid plastic cutlery, straws, and cheap plastic kitchenware.”
- Vacuum and dust regularly – “Microplastics settle in household dust. A clean home is a healthier home. Trust me, I’ve treated too many respiratory issues to ignore this.”
Dr. Kovač leans forward, his gaze intense. “These are small steps, but they add up. In medicine, we always talk about risk reduction—this is no different. Take control where you can. Your body will thank you.”
He sighs, then offers a small, weary smile. “And if all else fails… move to a remote Croatian island. But even there, the plastics wash up on shore. We have nowhere to run. So, we fight.”