Hey Mighty Friends, let’s talk tea—because while sipping your favorite herbal blend might feel like self-care, what’s inside your tea bag could be doing more harm than good. A recent study from the Autonomous University of Barcelona revealed some pretty shocking news: many commercial tea bags release billions of microplastics and nanoplastics into your cup. Yep, you read that right—billions.
As Mighty Health Advocates, we’re all about protecting our family and ourselves from hidden toxins, and this is one issue you’ll want to know about. Let’s break it down.
What the Study Found
Researchers used advanced laser techniques and microscopy to study tea bags made from materials like nylon, polypropylene, and cellulose. When these tea bags were steeped in hot water, they released:
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1.2 billion microplastic particles per milliliter
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136.7 nanometer-sized particles on average
These particles are tiny—so small, in fact, that you can’t see them with the naked eye. But here’s the kicker: they’re not just floating in your tea—they could be making their way into your body. The study showed that these micro- and nanoplastics can be absorbed by intestinal cells and even enter the cell nucleus. Read more about the study here.
Why This Matters for Your Health
1. Microplastics May Disrupt Your Hormones
Many plastics, including those found in tea bags, contain chemicals like BPA and phthalates, which are known endocrine disruptors. These can mess with your body’s delicate hormonal balance, potentially worsening symptoms of menopause, PMS, or fertility issues.
2. They Could Trigger Inflammation
When microplastics are absorbed into your cells, they may act like a foreign invader, triggering your body’s inflammatory response. Chronic inflammation is linked to issues like autoimmune diseases, gut problems, and even heart disease.
3. Gut Health is at Risk
Your gut is your second brain, Mama, and microplastics don’t do it any favors. The study found that these particles can damage intestinal cells, possibly leading to issues like leaky gut or reduced nutrient absorption.
4. They Add to Your Body’s Toxin Load
We’re already exposed to toxins through the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the products we use. Microplastics in your tea cup add another layer to your body’s detox burden, making it harder for your system to stay balanced.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Family
1. Switch to Plastic-Free Tea Bags
Look for brands that use unbleached paper tea bags or compostable materials. Better yet, opt for loose-leaf tea to skip the bag entirely.
2. Use a Stainless Steel or Glass Tea Strainer
Ditch disposable tea bags and invest in a stainless steel or glass tea infuser. It’s eco-friendly and toxin-free!
3. Choose Organic
Some non-organic tea bags are treated with pesticides, adding even more toxins to your cup. Organic teas are a safer option.
4. Stay Hydrated with Clean Water
Make your tea with filtered water to reduce your exposure to additional pollutants.
5. Detox Your Body Regularly
Support your body’s natural detox pathways by eating clean, nutrient-dense foods and using products like the Mighty Health Mama Mighty Rinse to remove toxins from your food.
Your Path To Wellness
We all know that knowledge is power, and now you know the truth about tea bags to make more informed choices on what you put into your body. This isn’t about fear—it’s about empowerment. By making small, intentional changes, you can protect your health and the health of your family. Every step you take to reduce toxins in your life is a step toward more energy, better focus, balanced hormones, and a stronger, healthier body.
When you take care of your body, your body takes care of you. You’re setting an example of strength, self-care, and mindfulness for your family. So, let’s raise a cup (of clean tea!) to living mighty, toxin-free, and empowered.