What Are Heavy Metals And Should We Be Worried About Them?

Heavy metals are naturally occurring elements that have a high atomic weight and density greater than 5g per cubic centimetre. Some heavy metals are essential in small amounts like copper, zinc and iron that play a role in oxygen transport, immune function, energy production and nervous system health. 

Others can be toxic even in small amounts like Lead, Mercury, Cadmium and Arsenic that we should be worried about and should avoid at all costs. Let's take a closer look at their health concerns and how to avoid them.

The most concerning toxic heavy metals are Arsenic, Lead, Mercury and Cadmium. These metals can enter our bodies and our environment through various ways.

Arsenic:

• Found in groundwater and in some agricultural products.
• Arsenic exposure can lead to cancer, cardiovascular issues and skin changes.
  
  

Lead:

• Found in old paints, water pipes and contaminated soil.
• Lead exposure can lead to neurological damage especially in children affecting their IQ, creating attention deficits and developmental delays in speech. It is also a high risk for pregnant women leading to fatal development issues and workers in high exposure industries like battery manufacturing, construction and mining.
  
  

Mercury:

• Found in mining, coal combustion and industrial processes. Also accumulated in seafood such as Tuna and Swordfish.
• Mercury exposure can lead to a range of health concerns such as neurological damage, kidney damage, cardiovascular issues, reproductive toxicity, immune system dysfunction, gastrointestinal symptoms and respiratory issues.
  
  

Cadmium:

• Found in batteries, contaminated foods and cigarette smoke.
• Cadmium exposure can lead to cancer, kidney damage and bone weakness

Heavy metals are extremely dangerous as they accumulate in our body over time leading to toxicity. There are various ways they can be detrimental to our health.

Neurological Damage: Lead and Mercury are known to interfere with brain development and function especially in children leading to learning difficulties and behavioural issues.

Organ Damage: Metals like Arsenic and Cadmium are more targeted to organ damage such as the liver, kidneys and lungs creating long term damage that is often irreversible.

Hormone and Immune damage: Most toxic heavy metals interfere with the endocrine system and immune function leading to hormonal imbalances and a low immune system.

Carcinogenic Risk: Toxic heavy metals particularly Arsenic and Cadmium when exposed to for long periods of time have been linked to various forms of cancer.

The level of concern depends on various factors, all of which we can take note of and adapt our lives too accordingly. These include:

- Dietary intake: Consuming fish high in mercury or foods that are grown in contaminated soil pose a risk to increased exposure.

- Environmental exposure: People that live near industrial areas, mining sites or regions with contaminated water supply are at risk.

- Regulations: Most countries have laws in place to protect against toxic heavy metal exposure imposing limits on industrial emissions, safe water standards and bans on gasoline and paints. 

Most people can minimise their risk through general awareness and preventative measures, however one must be extra cautious of pregnant women or young children who are the most at risk.

• Dietary restrictions: Limit large predatory fish like tuna and swordfish that contain the highest levels of mercury. Remember to always wash your food thoroughly to remove contaminants.
• Safe Water: It is recommended to use water filters to remove heavy metals if you are drinking tap water and there may be a suspected contamination.
• No Smoking: Tobacco contains Cadmium and other toxic substances that are known carcinogens.
• Workplace Safety: Make sure to use protective gear if working in an industrial site that involves contact with toxic heavy metals.
• Test your Environment: It is always a good idea to check your local water quality reports to see the levels of heavy metal exposure and if a water filter would be helpful to minimise the exposure. It is also recommended to test your home for lead if it was built before 1992 (in the UK) before the ban on using lead-based paint was enforced.

Often, a Mycotoxin Test can help to identify what work is required to support detoxification pathways. When doing a heavy metal detox, practitioners can also advise:

• Eat detox-supportive foods - leafy greens, coriander, garlic, onions, and cruciferous vegetables help bind and eliminate metals.
• Hydrate and increase fibre - water and fibre support kidney and bowel function, ensuring efficient toxin excretion.
• Use natural chelators - chlorella, spirulina, and modified citrus pectin aid in binding and removing heavy metals.
• Boost mineral intake - magnesium and zinc compete with heavy metals for absorption, reducing accumulation.
• Support liver detoxification - milk thistle and glutathione enhance the body’s natural detox pathways.
• Incorporate sweat therapy - infrared saunas and dry brushing help release toxins through the skin and lymphatic system.
• Seek professional guidance - if exposure is significant, consult a healthcare expert for testing and a tailored detox plan.