St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine clinical faculty member Elizabeth Ryznar, MD, MSc, was recently interviewed by Psychology Today to share her insights on the neurological health risks of microplastic exposure.
Dr. Ryznar serves as associate chair of psychiatry (US) and an associate professor of medicine at SGU. She is also a board-certified psychiatrist and advisory board member for the Physician and Scientist Network Addressing Plastics and Health (PSNAP).
In the interview, Dr. Ryznar discussed how microscopic particles can enter the body through air, water, and food, and in some cases cross the blood–brain barrier. Once in the brain, micro- and nanoplastics may trigger inflammation, oxidative stress, and other changes associated with neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Although research is still developing, she emphasized that the mechanisms observed so far warrant close attention from both scientists and clinicians.
“For a long time, I thought of plastics as an environmental problem, hurting oceans, not humans,” she explained. Then the pandemic hit, and Dr. Ryznar’s routine changed, preparing all her own meals at home and spending more time outside on hikes. She noticed how much plastic piled up as trash in her kitchen or as litter on the hiking trails.
“That made the issue personal, and I spent three years changing my own habits to be low-plastic.” —Dr. Elizabeth Ryznar
Dr. Ryznar also outlined practical ways individuals can reduce exposure, such as avoiding heating food in plastic, using glass or stainless-steel containers, and choosing natural fiber clothing. She also called for broader policy and industry reforms to address the problem at its source.
“[I find hope] in human creativity and cooperation. Innovators are developing safer materials, better capture technologies, and circular reuse systems. Healthcare organizations are moving toward sustainable practices,” Dr. Ryznar said. “And as more people understand the health dimensions of plastics, momentum grows.”
Read the full interview with Dr. Ryznar in Psychology Today
