Heavy Metal poisoning and Chelation Therapy (also referred to as toxic metal poisoning) is the approved treatment for removing toxic metals from the body. It can be hard for a Doctor to diagnose simply because most of the symptoms can generally be associated with other causes. This is why it can take so long for a Doctor to diagnose because it can be part of a process of elimination.
The problem is we live in such a toxic world it’s hard to escape metal toxicity, the risk also increases for long term smokers.
Heavy Metal Poisoning : What are the Good and Bad Metals
We need many of these heavy metals in our system, such as zinc, copper, chromium, iron and manganese, these are essential for bodily function but only in very small trace amounts. As soon as the metals from these substances build up our system they get stored in the heart, brain and the liver which can cause many problems. The heavy metals commonly associated with toxic metal poisoning are namely lead, mercury, arsenic and cadmium.
Symptoms of Heavy Metal Poisoning
There can be many symptoms, as you now realise it’s hard to diagnose but the most common symptoms of heavy metal poisoning are tiredness, fatigue and high blood pressure, there can also be a metallic taste in the mouth. These metals can enter the body through various pathways, including ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact.
Other symptoms can be impaired cognitive, motor, nausea, language skills, learning difficulties, nervousness and emotional instability. Did you know that the expression “as mad as a hatter” came from mercury poisoning in people that was prevalent in 17th century in France? It was actually hat makers who used to soak animal hides in a solution of mercuric nitrate to soften the hair. In males it can also be a contributor to low testosterone levels.
In cases of lead poisoning, individuals may also experience irritability, difficulty concentrating, and developmental delays in children. Mercury exposure may lead to symptoms like tremors, mood swings, and sensory impairments.
Detoxification and Heavy Metal Poisoning
Detoxification is the upstream approach to addressing chronic health concerns. Detoxification removes the root cause of the problem instead of simply addressing the symptoms. In traditional health care, symptoms are often addressed using pharmaceutical drugs, which can further add to the body’s toxicity.
After cleansing to body of heavy metals and other toxins through chelation therapy, avoiding future exposure to heavy metals is important.
First, avoid “silver” amalgam fillings and consider replacing silver fillings with porcelain materials. The porcelain is not as durable as amalgam fillings but they are more attractive and healthier. Silver (amalgam) fillings contain about 50 percent mercury by weight. Research studies show that even small amounts of mercury can damage the brain and internal organs and suppress the immune system.
The World Health Organization reports that the daily intake of mercury from amalgam fillings exceeds the combined intake of all mercury consumed from food, water and air. A study of human autopsies found a strong correlation between the number of silver fillings and the amount of mercury found in the brain. Mercury is a suspected cause of Alzheimer’s Disease.
Second, demand thimerosal free vaccines when vaccinating an infant. Thimerosal is a mercury based preservative used in vaccines. For every vaccine that contains thimerosal, there is at least one thimerosal-free brand. A growing amount of evidence links thimerosal to neurodevelopmental disorders, developmental delays, behavior problems, autism and Attention Deficit Disorder and behavior problems.
Also avoid consuming bottom feeder seafood like lobster, oysters and clams that may contain toxic levels of mercury. Tuna, mackerel, and swordfish contain the highest levels of mercury of all fish.
Who is at Risk of Heavy Metal Poisoning?
Good question, well, these metals can be found in various sources, including contaminated water, polluted air, industrial waste, and certain foods in particularly fish that accumulate these toxins.
Inhaling dust or vapors containing heavy metals is also significant especially for people working in industries such as mining, welding or the manufacture of batteries, skin contact with soils or products containing heavy metals can also contribute.
The risks associated with heavy metal toxicity are profound, as even low levels of exposure can lead to serious health issues, including neurological damage, kidney dysfunction, developmental disorders in children and various cancers.
Construction workers are also subject to potential heavy metal exposure and activities such as demolition, painting and the use of certain construction materials, such as lead based paints and plumbing fixtures also pose risks. Cadmium, found in some construction debris and building materials can affect the kidneys and lungs if safety measures are not strictly followed.
The manufacturing industry is yet another source where individuals can face exposure to heavy metals, particularly in sectors dealing with electronics, battery production, or metal finishing where metals like nickel, chromium, and lead can be present in significant quantities.
Enviromental Factors and Heavy Metal Poisoning
People residing near industrial areas are particularly vulnerable to exposure due to the elevated levels of pollutants associated with manufacturing processes. For instance, communities situated near mining operations or factories often face contamination from metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium. These hazardous substances can infiltrate the air, soil, and even the water which can lead to extensive health problems.
Pregnant women also face elevated risks due to the potential transfer of toxins to the fetus heavy metals can cross the placental barrier, leading to various complications that may affect fetal development. For instance, exposure to high levels of lead and mercury can result in neurological deficits, low birth weight, or even stillbirth. It is essential for pregnant women to be aware of their surroundings, especially in areas with known contamination or during consumption of certain fish known to have high mercury levels.
EDTA Chelation – approved treatment for Heavy Metal Poisoning
EDTA is approved by the FDA and other organisations as the treatment for heavy metal poisoning. The IV method has the greatest absorption but it is not available everywhere and the costs can be prohibitive.
Oral EDTA Chelation is best taken in liquid form as it has greater absorption qualities (up to 95%) than pills or capsules. EDTA is an Amino Acid that pulls the stored metals out of the tissue into the blood stream which are then expelled through the urine.
Chinese herbal remedies contain a potent amount of heavy metals, this is because heavy metals are easily absorbed by plants and in recent years China has had widespread problems with heavy metal contamination. Thousands of people have been poisoned because they live near battery factories or metal smelters. Most of the problem is in the South being a heavy industrialised part of the country. If you need to take Chinese remedies try to take them in moderation.
Pots Pans and Cookware. Can be a source of heavy metal poisoning as during cooking metals leach from pans and end up in the food. Invest in some high quality pans to avoid any excess aluminium, copper or iron entering your system.
Cigarettes and Smoking. We all know by now they are bad, however cigarettes are the number one cause of heavy metal poisoning as they have high traces of cadmium and nickel, most long term smokers who get their heavy metal levels tested have high amounts of these in their system.
Sample of Metals and Their Effects on the Body
Mercury – What can it affect?
Found in the brain, kidneys, liver, lungs, central nervous system, red blood cells, muscle tissue, and the bladder.
Where does Mercury come from? Glues, air conditioning filters, antiseptic creams, batteries, talcum powder, damaged thermometers, cosmetics, amalgam fillings, dairy products, electrical wiring and switches, fabric softeners, flourescent lights, polishes, laxatives, paints, pesticides, pharmaceutical drugs and creams, processed grains, seafood, sewage disposal, skin lightening cream, tanning leathers, tattoos and more.
Arsenic – What can it affect?
The main areas of distribution are the liver, aorta, kidneys, lungs, spleen, skin, hair and nails.
Where does Arsenic come from? Animal feeds, antibiotics, industrial dust, car exhaust systems, coloured chalk, fungicides, pesticides, detergents, fish and shellfish, rat poison, wine, tap water and more.
Aluminium – What can it affect?
Aluminium accumulates in the brain, nerves, muscles, lungs, liver, bones, skin, reproductive organs, kidneys and the stomach.
Where does Aluminium come from? aluminium foil, cooking ware, animal feeds, aluminium cans, beer, aspirin, ceramic ware, cocoa, construction materials, cosmetics, zeolite, baking powder, dental amalgam fillings and dentures, deodorants, lipsticks, nasal sprays, medical compounds and some prescription drugs, milk products, cigarette filters, pesticides, processed flour, table salt, cigarette smoke, toothpaste, vanilla powder, tap water and more.
Cadmium – What can it affect?
Cadmium is found in the kidneys as well as the liver and other organs. It is considered to be more toxic than lead or mercury.
Where does Cadium come from? batteries, ceramics, cereals, cigarette smoke, tea and coffee cola drinks, electroplating, fertilisers, fungicides, burning tyres or rubber, plastics, marijuana, milk, sea fish, oysters, pesticides, processed food, silver polish, solder on canned food, soft drinks, welding materials, tap water and more.
Lead – What can it affect?
Lead is a toxin that is stored in the central nervous system as well as the brain, kidneys, hair, muscle, and the bones.
Where does Lead come from? car batteries and exhaust systems, tinned fruit, cigarette smoke, leaded petrol, hair dyes, insecticides, lead crystal glass, refineries, old lead water pipes and the water they carry, lipstick and mascara, ceramics, evaporated milk, bone meal, offal, lead based paint, pesticides, vegetable products grown near the roadside, PVC , solder, tobacco, toothpaste and more.
Since leaded petrol has been discontinued in most places the problem of heavy metal poisoning has been reduced however the risk factors from other sources still remain.
Long Term Effects of Heavy Metal Exposure
If left untreated, heavy metal poisoning can lead to severe health conditions. Long term exposure can damage organs such as the kidneys, liver, and the nervous system. Chronic symptoms may include respiratory issues, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer. Thus, it is essential to seek medical attention if you suspect heavy metal poisoning.
Heavy metal poisoning and Chelation therapy is the prefferred method of removing toxic elements from the body and can be taken Orally or by the IV method to achieve the greates absorbancy.
In conclusion, awareness of the symptoms associated with heavy metal poisoning can help individuals seek timely intervention. If you or a loved one shows signs of toxic metal exposure, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and the treatment options available for you.