Chitosan helps rats excrete microplastics faster
A new study shows that chitosan, a dietary fiber, significantly increased the excretion of microplastics in rats, potentially mitigating their accumulation in the gut. Rats fed chitosan showed a higher fecal excretion rate of microplastics and reduced gut retention compared to a control group. This suggests chitosan could help the body eliminate ingested plastic particles more efficiently. Researchers believe chitosan's properties may allow it to bind to microplastics, facilitating their removal. Further research is needed to understand the exact mechanisms and effects on humans.