Jakarta –
Paper straws are often an alternative to plastic straws because they are environmentally friendly. Even though it is good for the environment, this straw is actually dangerous for the body because of the substances in it.
The use of paper straws has become popular because many people have started to become aware of the environmentally friendly aspect. In this case, paper straws are considered a better substitute for plastic straws.
Even though using paper straws is better for the environment, the facts revealed by a doctor recently shocked many people.
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By uploading a video on the TikTok account @drjoshredd, Dr. Josh Redd warned many people to avoid using the viral product.
Redd begins the video by narrating, “You know that paper straws are great for the environment, right?”
However, this doctor continued his narrative by revealing that there was material in the straw that contained toxic substances.
According to Redd, the glue that holds the paper straws together is what is toxic. If people find paper straws, Redd recommends drinking straight from the glass rather than using the straw.
This upload then caused various comments from netizens.
A netizen revealed that currently there is nothing that is good and safe for health.
 This doctor revealed the dangers of using paper straws because of the substances contained in them. Photo: TikTok @drjoshredd |
Because paper straws are considered dangerous, this netizen commented, “There are no more winners in this world. God! Living this life is so tiring.”
So, are paper straws really dangerous? According to thedailydot.com (01/01/2025), paper straws are generally made from glue that is safe for food. However, the problem is not solely because of that.
The reason is, most glue decomposes into microplastics which are dangerous for human health. These microplastics can cause health problems, such as asthma and lung cancer. Apart from that, it can also damage cardiovascular health.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that patients who had microplastics in their carotid artery plaque had a 4.5 times greater risk of stroke, heart attack or death.
 Paper straws contain toxic chemicals. Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto/kyonntra |
What is more dangerous than paper straws is the chemical content in them. In the original video commentary, Redd also points out that paper straws contain perennial chemicals, in the form of PFAFS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl).
A study in Belgium found PFAS in 18 of 20 brands of paper straws and bamboo straws tested. This toxic chemical is also found in almost 90 percent of paper straw brands on the market.
According to a Natural Resources Defense Council report, PFAS cause a range of health problems, such as cancer and liver, hormone and thyroid problems,
Even though paper straws are more environmentally friendly, they can also harm your health because of the glue used to hold the paper together.
(aqr/adr)
