Tracey Woodruff, renowned researcher and professor at UCSF, discusses all things microplastics – what they are, how they affect our health, how worried we should really be about them, and what we can do today to limit our exposure.  In this informative episode of the Liz Moody podcast, Dr. Tracey Woodruff, a renowned researcher and professor at UCSF, joins to discuss the issues of microplastics. Dr. Woodruff explains what microplastics are and how they infiltrate our daily lives through food, water, air, and consumer products. The conversation delves into the potential health impacts of microplastics, including reproductive issues, respiratory problems, cancer risks, and metabolic disorders. Dr. Woodruff discusses recent studies on microplastics in the human body and the regulatory challenges surrounding plastic use. She ends by sharing hopeful and practical steps we can all take to reduce exposure to microplastics as well as provides insight into legal and environmental actions needed to mitigate this growing concern. 00:17 Introducing Dr. Tracey Woodruff 00:53 Understanding Microplastics 05:22 Health Impacts of Microplastics 13:10 Microplastics in Our Environment 22:35 Microplastics in Food and Clothing 25:02 Choosing Safer Food Options 25:42 Understanding Plastic Contamination 26:33 Microplastics in Water 29:12 Heating Plastics: The Hidden Dangers 31:19 Everyday Items and Microplastic Concerns 35:30 Reducing Microplastic Exposure 38:34 Government Actions and Media Coverage 42:36 Final Thoughts and Recommendations Visit Tracey’s Toxic Matters at the Program on Reproductive Health website with tips on what you can do to prevent exposure for yourself, your family, and your community. Ready to uplevel every part of your life? Order Liz’s new book 100 Ways to Change Your Life: The Science of Leveling Up Health, Happiness, Relationships & Success now!  To join The Liz Moody Podcast Club Facebook group, go to www.facebook.com/groups/thelizmoodypodcast. Connect with Liz on Instagram @lizmoody, or subscribe to her newsletter by visiting www.lizmoody.com. This episode is sponsored by: AG1: visit drinkag1.com/lizmoody and get your FREE year supply of Vitamin D and 5 free travel packs today. ZocDoc: go to ZocDoc.com/LizMoody and download the Zocdoc app for FREE and book a top-rated doctor today. Puori: head to puori.com/LIZMOODY and use promo code LIZMOODY for 20% sitewide. Shopify: sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/lizm. The Liz Moody Podcast cover art by Zack. The Liz Moody Podcast music by Alex Ruimy. Formerly the Healthier Together Podcast.  This podcast and website represents the opinions of Liz Moody and her guests to the show. The content here should not be taken as medical advice. The content here is for information purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions. The Liz Moody Podcast Episode 266. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices