Editorial Team
Claire Rowan
Editor-in-Chief, Health & Research
About Claire
Claire is Editor-in-Chief at MicroPlastics, where she oversees editorial direction, fact-checking standards, and the site's YMYL (Your Money or Your Life) review process. Her work centers on translating peer-reviewed research from journals like the New England Journal of Medicine, PNAS, and The Lancet into clear explainers for general readers. She edits the health, pregnancy, and children topic clusters and personally reviews every article that makes a health claim. Before MicroPlastics, Claire spent years as a research-focused editor in environmental health journalism, working with academic researchers, public-health communicators, and consumer-facing publications.
Articles by Claire
65 articles in the MicroPlastics research library
December 22, 2025 · 11 min read
Microplastics and Cancer: What the Latest Research Reveals
A landmark 2024 NEJM study found patients with microplastics in arterial plaque had 4.53x higher risk of heart attack, stroke, or death.
Read articleDecember 10, 2025 · 10 min read
How to Detox Microplastics from Your Body: An Evidence-Based Guide
Can your body actually eliminate microplastics? From high-fiber diets to antioxidants and sweating, here is what science says about reducing your plastic burden.
Read articleMay 27, 2026 · 10 min read
BPA on Thermal Receipts: What Absorbs Through Your Skin
~94% of US thermal receipts test positive for BPA. Hand sanitizer makes skin absorption dramatically worse (Hormann 2014 PLoS One). The 7 daily habits that cut exposure.
Read articleMay 26, 2026 · 20 min read
The Complete 2026 Microplastics Action Plan: 30-Day Reset
A complete 30-day plan to dramatically reduce your microplastic exposure. Daily actions, weekly priorities, and the full evidence-based reset for 2026.
Read articleJune 1, 2025 · 14 min read
How to Avoid Microplastics: The Complete 2025 Guide
From your kitchen to your closet, microplastics are everywhere. This comprehensive guide covers 50+ practical, evidence-based ways to reduce daily exposure.
Read articleSeptember 10, 2025 · 11 min read
Microplastics Health Effects: What the Latest Research Says
Microplastics have been found in human blood, lungs, brain, and placenta. From cardiovascular risk to neurological effects, here is what research reveals.
Read articleMay 24, 2026 · 13 min read
Microplastics and Children by Age Group: 0-2, 2-5, 6-12
Age-specific microplastic exposure and reduction strategies for infants (0-2), toddlers (2-5), and school-age children (6-12). What changes with each stage.
Read articleMay 22, 2026 · 10 min read
Baby Bottle Materials Compared: Glass vs Silicone vs Steel vs PP
Head-to-head: glass, medical-grade silicone, stainless steel, polypropylene, PPSU, and PES baby bottles compared by microplastic release, durability, and price.
Read articleMay 17, 2026 · 14 min read
Microplastics in Pregnancy by Trimester: A Week-by-Week Guide
Microplastic exposure during pregnancy by trimester. What to focus on in weeks 1-13, 14-27, and 28-40 to protect baby development.
Read articleMay 16, 2026 · 9 min read
Microplastics and Diabetes: How Plastic Chemicals Affect Blood Sugar
BPA and phthalates from microplastics are linked to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes risk. Here is what 2024-2026 research shows.
Read articleMay 15, 2026 · 9 min read
Microplastics and Thyroid: How Plastic Chemicals Disrupt Hormones
BPA, BPS, PFAS, and phthalates from microplastics are linked to thyroid dysfunction. Here is what 2024-2026 research shows and how to reduce exposure.
Read articleMay 14, 2026 · 10 min read
Microplastics and Gut Health: The Microbiome Connection
Microplastics disrupt the gut microbiome, increase intestinal inflammation, and have been detected in human stool. Here is what the latest research shows.
Read articleMay 3, 2026 · 12 min read
Microplastics in Baby Formula: What Every Parent Should Know
Infants fed formula in plastic bottles ingest 1.6 million microplastic particles per day. Powdered vs ready-to-feed, container choice, and what to do.
Read articleApril 26, 2026 · 14 min read
Best Baby Bottles Without Microplastics: 2026 Parent's Guide
A 2020 Nature Food study found plastic baby bottles release 1-16 million microplastic particles per liter. Here are the safest glass, silicone, and steel alternatives ranked.
Read articleApril 16, 2026 · 9 min read
Microplastics in Human Blood: What the 2022 Leslie Study Found
In 2022 scientists first detected microplastics in human blood — found in 77% of 22 healthy donors. Here is what they found, what it means, and what to do.
Read articleApril 17, 2026 · 10 min read
Microplastics in Arterial Plaque: The 2024 NEJM Heart Study
A 2024 NEJM study found microplastics in 58% of carotid plaque samples. Patients with plastic in their arteries had 4.53× higher risk of heart attack or stroke.
Read articleApril 18, 2026 · 9 min read
Microplastics in Semen: What 2024 Studies Found About Male Fertility
Two 2024 studies detected microplastics in every human semen sample tested — and linked higher concentrations to reduced sperm quality.
Read articleApril 20, 2026 · 8 min read
How Much Plastic Do We Eat Per Week? The Credit-Card Stat Explained
You may have read that we eat a credit card of plastic per week. Here is what the research actually says and what is realistic.
Read articleNovember 5, 2025 · 9 min read
How to Check Products for Microplastics Before You Buy
A 5-second in-aisle check using recycling number + condition + category + brand + heat history. Plus what the MicroPlastics scanner app evaluates and how to use it.
Read articleDecember 28, 2025 · 8 min read
Microplastics in Disposable Face Masks: What You Inhale
Disposable masks shed up to 10,000 microplastic fibres per day per mask, including direct inhalation. Here is what studies show and safer mask options.
Read articleNovember 25, 2025 · 9 min read
Microplastics in Pet Food and Bowls: A Dog & Cat Parent's Guide
Pet food packaging, plastic bowls, and toys all contribute to your pet's microplastic exposure. Here is what the studies show and the safer alternatives.
Read articleSeptember 30, 2025 · 11 min read
Microplastics in Baby Food Pouches: Up to 11,000 Particles Per Pouch
A 2025 Greenpeace study found 5,000-11,000 microplastic particles in a single Gerber or Happy Baby Organics pouch. Glass jar alternatives ranked.
Read articleJune 25, 2025 · 10 min read
Microplastics from Car Tires: The Biggest Ocean Source You've Never Heard Of
Tire wear is responsible for 78% of ocean microplastics. A single car releases 1 trillion ultrafine particles per km. Here is what we know.
Read articleNovember 1, 2025 · 9 min read
Synthetic Underwear, Microplastics & Male Fertility: The Connection
Polyester and synthetic underwear release microfibres directly onto reproductive skin. A 1993 Egyptian study linked polyester underwear to reduced fertility.
Read articleOctober 6, 2025 · 10 min read
Microplastics in Plastic Toys for Children: A Parent's Guide
Plastic toys shed microplastics when chewed, scratched, or aged. Black recycled plastic toys contain brominated flame retardants. Safer wood, silicone & natural rubber picks.
Read articleJune 5, 2025 · 10 min read
Microplastics in Vitamins and Supplements: Capsules, Gummies & Powders
A 2024 study found microplastics in every omega-3 supplement tested — polypropylene and PET dominant. HPMC capsules, gummies, and gelatin compared.
Read articleJanuary 30, 2025 · 9 min read
Microplastics in Wet Wipes & Baby Wipes: 99% Are Plastic
99% of wet wipes are made of polyester and polypropylene — even ones marketed as "flushable" or "natural". A single wipe sheds thousands of microplastic fibres.
Read articleMarch 19, 2026 · 9 min read
Microplastics in Adult Diapers & Incontinence Products: A Senior Guide
Adult diapers (Depend, Tena, Always Discreet) and incontinence products are polypropylene + polyethylene + SAP. Worn 8-24 hours daily. Cleaner alternatives explored.
Read articleMarch 9, 2026 · 10 min read
Microplastics in Medication: Inhalers, Blister Packs & Eye Drops
Prescription inhalers, plastic blister packs, eye drops in plastic bottles, and IV bags all release microplastics. What seniors and chronic-illness patients need to know.
Read articleFebruary 22, 2026 · 9 min read
Microplastics, Arthritis & Joint Inflammation: The Connection
Microplastics drive chronic inflammation — a known contributor to arthritis pain and joint degeneration. Here is what 2024-2025 research shows and what to change.
Read articleFebruary 8, 2026 · 11 min read
Microplastics and Alzheimer's / Dementia: The UNM 10x Study
A 2025 University of New Mexico study found 10x more microplastic in brains of patients with dementia versus controls. What this means and what seniors can do.
Read articleFebruary 1, 2026 · 9 min read
School Lunchbox Materials Ranked: Best Microplastic-Free Picks
Plastic lunchboxes shed microplastics into kids lunches daily. LunchBots, PlanetBox, Yumbox, Bentgo, EcoLunchbox compared — stainless and silicone ranked safest.
Read articleJanuary 22, 2026 · 9 min read
Microplastics in Baby Skincare, Lotion & Sunscreen: Parent Guide
Baby lotion, sunscreen, diaper cream, and bath wash can contain polyethylene, PEG, carbomer, and acrylates copolymer. Cleanest brands ranked.
Read articleJanuary 8, 2026 · 8 min read
Pacifiers & Teethers Material Guide: Microplastic-Safe Picks
Silicone, natural rubber, and wood pacifiers and teethers compared. Avoid plastic shields and BPA-free polycarbonate. Hevea, Mushie, Bibs, Sophie la Girafe ranked.
Read articleJanuary 2, 2026 · 9 min read
Microplastics in Sippy Cups & Toddler Dishes: Safer Picks
Plastic sippy cups and toddler plates leach BPA, BPS, and microplastics with hot food and dishwasher cycles. Stainless steel, silicone, and bamboo alternatives ranked.
Read articleDecember 18, 2025 · 10 min read
Microplastics in Disposable Diapers: What Parents Need to Know
Pampers, Huggies, and most disposable diapers are polypropylene + polyethylene + SAP. Infant poop has 10x more microplastics than adult feces. Cleaner alternatives ranked.
Read articleDecember 8, 2025 · 11 min read
Microplastics in the Placenta: The 2024 UNM Study Explained
A 2024 UNM study detected microplastics in 100% of 62 human placentas tested, averaging ~127 micrograms per gram. Polyethylene was the dominant polymer. What it means for pregnancy.
Read articleJanuary 15, 2026 · 9 min read
Microplastics in Amniotic Fluid: What Studies Have Found
Microplastics have been detected in human amniotic fluid — the fluid the baby swallows and breathes from week 12. Three routes of fetal exposure explained.
Read articleFebruary 15, 2026 · 11 min read
Microplastics and Miscarriage Risk: What the Research Shows
Multiple human cohort studies link higher BPA, phthalate, and PFAS exposure to higher miscarriage risk. Most losses are not preventable — but reduction is reasonable precaution.
Read articleMarch 12, 2026 · 10 min read
Microplastics and Preeclampsia: The Plasticiser Connection
Preeclampsia affects 5-8% of pregnancies. PFAS, BPA, and phthalate exposure are linked to higher risk through impaired placental development and endothelial dysfunction.
Read articleApril 2, 2026 · 10 min read
Microplastics and Gestational Diabetes: BPA, Phthalates & Risk
BPA, phthalates, and PFAS from microplastic exposure are linked to higher gestational diabetes risk through insulin resistance. The evidence and a reduction plan.
Read articleApril 12, 2026 · 12 min read
Microplastics and IVF Success Rates: BPA, Phthalates & Outcomes
Higher BPA and phthalate levels in IVF patients are linked to fewer eggs, fewer good embryos, and lower live birth rates. A 3-month pre-cycle plasticiser reduction protocol.
Read articleNovember 28, 2025 · 9 min read
Microplastics in Stretch Mark Creams: Safer Pregnancy Picks
Most popular stretch mark creams contain microplastic polymers, synthetic fragrance, and parabens. Safer pregnancy picks ranked, plus simple plant-oil alternatives.
Read articleOctober 25, 2025 · 9 min read
Microplastics in Nipple Cream & Lanolin: Safer Breastfeeding Picks
Nipple cream is the first product your baby ingests. Medical-grade lanolin is generally safe; flagged petrolatum and paraben formulas to avoid. Clean picks ranked.
Read articleSeptember 15, 2025 · 9 min read
Microplastics in Pregnancy Pillows: What You Sleep With All Night
Most pregnancy pillows (Boppy, Snoogle) are polyester or polyurethane foam — releasing microplastics for 8+ hours nightly. Organic cotton, kapok, and wool picks ranked.
Read articleAugust 2, 2025 · 10 min read
Microplastics in Hospital Birthing Supplies: What to Know
PVC IV bags + DEHP, polyester gowns, newborn warmers — what hospitals use during delivery. DEHP-free alternatives and what to pack from home.
Read articleApril 21, 2026 · 13 min read
Microplastics in Baby Bottles & Kids' Food: Parent's Checklist
A parent's checklist for reducing microplastic exposure from baby bottles, formula prep, sippy cups, pouches, and kids' packaged foods. Practical, not preachy.
Read articleApril 5, 2026 · 11 min read
Setting Up a Microplastic-Free Nursery: The Complete Checklist
From crib mattresses to toys to air quality, this comprehensive checklist helps expecting parents create a low-exposure nursery from day one.
Read articleMarch 22, 2026 · 10 min read
Microplastics in Breast Milk: What New Mothers Need to Know
A 2022 study first detected microplastics in human breast milk. Learn which plastics were found, how they get there, and practical steps to reduce exposure.
Read articleMarch 15, 2026 · 10 min read
Microplastics in the Brain: What the 2025 Studies Reveal
A landmark UNM study found microplastics in human brains have increased 50% over 8 years, with dementia patients showing 10x more.
Read articleMarch 5, 2026 · 9 min read
Microplastics in Prenatal Vitamins and Supplements: What to Watch For
Many prenatal vitamin capsules contain plastic polymers like HPMC and polyethylene glycol. Learn how to choose truly plastic-free prenatal vitamins.
Read articleMarch 1, 2026 · 8 min read
EU Microplastics Ban 2025: What It Means for Consumers
The EU landmark microplastics restriction entered force in 2025 with deadlines through 2035. Here is what is changing and which products are affected.
Read articleFebruary 28, 2026 · 12 min read
Best Microplastic-Free Products: Our Top Picks for 2026
We scanned thousands of products with the MicroPlastics app. Here are the cleanest, safest products across food, cosmetics, and household categories.
Read articleFebruary 18, 2026 · 10 min read
Nanoplastics vs Microplastics: Why Size Matters for Your Health
Nanoplastics are smaller than 1 micrometer and can cross the blood-brain barrier. A Columbia study found 240,000 nanoplastic particles per liter of bottled water.
Read articleFebruary 12, 2026 · 11 min read
BPA-Free Isn't Enough: A Complete Guide to Avoiding Plastics During Pregnancy
BPA-free labels are misleading — replacement chemicals BPS and BPF are equally harmful. A trimester-by-trimester guide for expecting mothers.
Read articleJanuary 31, 2026 · 11 min read
Is BPA-Free Plastic Actually Safe?
"BPA-free" only means one chemical wasn't used. Replacements (BPS, BPF) show similar endocrine activity. And the plastic still sheds microplastics. The label that tricks shoppers.
Read articleJanuary 25, 2026 · 10 min read
Microplastics and Trying to Conceive: What Couples Need to Know
Microplastics found in testicular tissue and ovarian follicles are linked to declining fertility. Learn how to create a 3-6 month preconception detox plan.
Read articleJanuary 24, 2026 · 11 min read
Microplastics vs PFAS vs BPA: What's the Difference?
Three separate problems with three separate sources. Plain-English breakdown of what each is, where each shows up, and how to reduce all three at once.
Read articleJanuary 18, 2026 · 10 min read
Microplastics and Pregnancy: Risks Every Expecting Parent Should Know
Microplastics have been found in human placenta, amniotic fluid, and breast milk. Recent studies link higher placental concentrations to complications.
Read articleJanuary 3, 2026 · 13 min read
7-Day Microplastic Detox Challenge: What to Change First
Seven days, seven swaps. Day-by-day plan covering water filter, microwave habits, coffee cups, food storage, cutting boards, tea bags, and pantry baseline. ~$165 total to do all 7.
Read articleNovember 20, 2025 · 9 min read
Microplastics and Fertility: What Every Couple Should Know
Microplastics have been found in testicular tissue and placenta. Emerging research links plastic exposure to declining fertility rates.
Read articleOctober 15, 2025 · 10 min read
Microplastics and Children: Why Kids Face the Greatest Risk
Children ingest significantly more microplastics per pound of body weight than adults. Learn age-specific strategies to protect your kids.
Read articleAugust 18, 2025 · 11 min read
Microplastics in Baby Products: A Parent's Complete Guide
From bottles to toys to formula, babies face unique microplastic risks. This guide covers everything parents need to know.
Read articleApril 15, 2025 · 11 min read
Are Microplastics Harmful? What Scientists Actually Know in 2026
From inflammation and cardiovascular risk to endocrine disruption and neurological effects, here is what researchers actually know.
Read articleMarch 20, 2025 · 10 min read
How to Protect Your Family from Microplastics
Children are especially vulnerable to microplastic exposure. This parent-focused guide covers baby bottles, kids food safety, nursery setup, and practical tips.
Read article