For years, we have been discussing the hazardous impacts of using single-use polythene and plastic products. We can debate over the quality of plastic, but we cannot deny the fact that plastic in any form takes decades, maybe centuries, to decompose. Thus, it is polluting the soil, water, air and even the bodies of animals and human beings.
Do you know that microplastics have reached the lungs of human beings? According to a research study conducted in England and published in the Science of the Total Environment, small pieces of plastic were found in the lungs of living beings. Previously, scientists and researchers have discovered traces of plastic in the excreta and blood of humans. It has been found in the depth of oceans and the bodies of aquatic life.
Are we exaggerating? Let’s talk about the plastic straws that we use at the home, office and in cafes.
How Plastic Straws Are Damaging The World?
Though in small amounts plastic straws are damaging our world? Do you remember a video of a plastic straw stuck in a turtle’s nose that went viral on social media? That beautiful creature was in immense pain, and it took a delicate procedure by the rescuers to extract that piece of straw out of its nose. The aquatic animal was bleeding.
Since then, a movement, #StopSucking, started on social media. Many renowned brands like Starbucks declared to ban the use of plastic straws in their outlets. Many other brands came forward and vowed to reduce the use of plastic in packaging, and have turned towards eco-friendly options.
According to a story published in the World Wide Life Organisation, plastic has been found in at least 90% of all sea turtles and sea birds. It says that many species of marine life mistake the small pieces for food and suffer until the end if they cannot pass it out of their bodies.
How Can Plastic Straws Harm Human Beings?
Increase The Risk Of Tooth Decay And Cavities
Tooth decay, cavities and many other oral health issues are mostly caused by eating junk food and drinking aerated beverages. While we seem to think that straws may help, it is actually not the truth. When you drink anything using a plastic straw, the components touch your teeth and enamel. It can send brunt to your molars and create a higher risk for dental problems.
Could Promote Weight Gain
A story published in The Washington Post states that straws can make you drink more than you actually would. Little sips of aerated and high-calorie soft drinks can cause you to gain more weight. A report in The Telegraph says that straws neutralise the smell of the drink and boost your appetite for the beverage that can harm your body.
Don't Miss: 5 Ways To Make Your Kids Eat Healthy Food
Premature Signs Of Ageing
When you drink using a straw, you make a pout with your lips to suck the drink up into your mouth. The repetition of this activity can lead to the development of fine lines and wrinkles (Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Wrinkles) around your lips. Plastic straws are convenient, but paper or steel straws are better.
Add Chemicals To your Body
Plastic straws are made of polypropylene, a component that is said to be food-safe in moderation. However, when exposed to heat chemicals from the straws can leech into your beverage and end up being in your body. These chemical components can also affect the hormone levels of your body.
Don't Miss: A Guide For Women To Pick An Intimate Wash
Can Stain Your Teeth
If you keep the plastic straw at the back of your mouth, you can avoid contact with the beverage with your teeth. However, if you have the habit of keeping it between the teeth and chewing, it can potentially lead to staining of teeth.
Stay tuned with HerZindagi to reach more such stories.