Dr. Jack Kunkel
Heavy Metal
Toxicity
A toxin is essentially something that is poisonous to the human body. Generally, the toxins we are exposed to are usually produced by living organisms, or can come from other sources such as heavy metals or certain chemicals in the environment.
Heavy metals are elements that have a high atomic weight and density, and include metals such aslead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, and chromium, among others.
We interact with small amounts of heavy metals every day, and certain heavy metals are essential for your body to function properly, but heavy metal toxicity or poisoning occurs when microscopic molecules of these harmful metals accumulate within your body after exposure.
Heavy metals can be harmful because once they’re inside your body, they attach to your cells and prevent them from performing their functions, which causes symptoms that could be potentially life threatening without treatment.
How can heavy metals get in your body?
- Lead can get into your body through contaminated water from lead pipes, batteries, paint,gasoline, and construction materials.
- Arsenic is found in many topical creams, herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, fungicides, paints, enamels, glass, contaminated water, seafood, and algae.
- Cadmium can enter your body from cigarette smoke, metal plating, decorative jewelry, and batteries.
- Mercury is found in liquid thermometers, some lightbulbs, some types of seafood, and certain topical antiseptics
The effect of heavy metals on the human health
The impact of heavy metals on human health can be significant and wide-ranging. The severity of heavy metal toxicity depends on the type of metal, the amount and duration of exposure, and the individual’s age, health status, and genetic makeup.
Heavy metal exposure has the ability to cause cancer, disrupt metabolic function, cause neurological problems, kidney damage, and much more.
Overall, the effects of heavy metals on human health can be severe and long-lasting. It’s impossible to live in an environment free of heavy metals, but it is important to take precautions to avoid exposure to heavy metals whenever possible, and to seek medical attention if you suspect you have been exposed to heavy metals.