As you know, our bodies need a variety of essential minerals and vitamins to thrive and function optimally. For example, zinc, copper, and selenium are essential for proper functioning of the thyroid gland, and can be disproportionate in hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, while calcium and magnesium are essential for building and maintaining strong healthy bones.
But, what about heavy metals, what are those and how do they affect us? Heavy metals, also known as toxic elements, disrupt the normal functioning of our bodies and block the beneficial effects of essential minerals. For example, lead can replace calcium in bone, causing osteoporosis, making bones brittle and more susceptible to fractures.
A single large exposure to a toxic
element is rare and generally considered a medical emergency. However, small
amounts of toxic elements can easily accumulate over time through exposure to
our environment, prescription drugs, dental/surgical examinations and
procedures, drinking water, food, and lifestyle habits such as smoking. Even herbs
and supplements that are made without good manufacturing practices (GMPs) can
expose us to toxic elements.
Toxic elements can also be found in
common household products and may contribute to a variety of symptoms. Here are
some examples:
·
Aluminum
is found in cooking utensils, antiperspirants, some pickled foods, toothpaste,
nasal spray, automotive exhausts, ceramics and baking powder. Signs of toxicity
may include impaired memory & increased risk of heart disease.
·
Arsenic
is found in pressure-treated wood used in decks and playground equipment. Early
signs of arsenic toxicity may include headaches, fatigue, restlessness,
insomnia, drowsiness, dizziness, stomach aches, and pain.
·
Cadmium
is found in cigarette smoke, some paint pigments, and in a variety of
industrial products. Fatigue may be an early sign of cadmium toxicity.
·
Lead
is still around from the days when we used leaded gasoline in cars, lead solder
in plumbing and leaded paints. Lead exposure may contribute to mood and
personality problems.
·
Mercury
is found in dental fillings, fluorescent lights, and some electronics. Chronic
exposure to mercury primarily affects the brain and nervous system. Symptoms
like: weakness, fatigue, numbness in fingers and toes, weight loss and
gastrointestinal disturbances are common with ongoing exposure to mercury.
·
Tin
is found in canned foods. If acidic foods are sealed in an un-lined tin can, significant
absorption of tin can occur. Excess absorption of tin may contribute to
gastrointestinal symptoms.
You might be
looking at this list and wondering if you or a loved one has been exposed to
heavy metals and are planning to ask if your doctor can test you. Although your
doctor can certainly test your blood for single large exposures of lead or
mercury, the results are often normal because most of us are not generally
exposed in this way.
However, when
the body is exposed to small amounts of toxic metals over time, they may not remain
accumulated in the blood and may be undetectable using a blood sample. Since
the body has such a strong need to maintain homeostasis, or equilibrium, these
toxic elements are often quickly removed from the blood and moved to storage into
tissues and bone where they cause less direct threat to critical organs such as
the brain and heart.
If you are
concerned about your exposure to toxic elements, ask if your
naturopathic doctor can perform a urine test to determine your body’s excretion
of these elements and assess your toxic burden. If you are diagnosed with toxic
heavy metal accumulation, a treatment plan using gentle oral and intravenous
chelating agents, and follow up testing may be recommended.
Stay tuned
for my next article talking about oral and intravenous chelating agents to
reduce your toxic element burden and alleviate symptoms caused by heavy metals.
Dr. Amita Sachdev BScN, ND has been in health care for over 20 years, and
provides
family health and cancer support using naturopathic medicine in Kleinburg
and Maple, Ontario. www.DrSachdevND.com