Heavy Metal Toxicity & How To Get Rid Of Them.

The dangers of exposure to Heavy Metals are becoming more widely known in society as we seem to be getting sicker as a population despite our medical system becoming more advanced. This tells me that the system has gaping holes and we must become advocates for our own health to ensure we live long and happy lives.

We are exposed to Heavy metals in everyday life by foods we consume, the water we drink, medications/vaccines we take, cosmetics we use and the environment we live in. Despite it being so common to be exposed to them, it does not make them safe or harmless to our health.

Mercury

Mercury toxins can be found in vaccines, dental fillings and a lot of seafood. When mercury enters the body, it is stored in the kidneys, blood, spleen, brain, liver, bones and fatty tissue. While Fish and Seafood is considered safe with a lot of nutritional benefits, its important to know the concentrations of mercury in different commercial seafood. As a general rule, larger, deep sea fish have a higher concentration of heavy metals. Try to opt for small, wild caught, local fish. 

Aluminium

Aluminium is one of the many heavy metals that is now linked to brain issues and neurological degeneration. Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease have been repeatedly examined for a relation to aluminium accumulation in the brain. Aluminium is stored in the kidneys, brain, lungs, liver and thyroid. Aluminium is in a lot of cosmetics (lipsticks, toothpastes, deodorants etc. Medications is another category which aluminium is found in (antacids, anti-diarrhoea medication, aspirin, haemorrhoid medication, nasal spray, vaccines etc). Non perishable food (canned), food cooked on Aluminium cookware and food that has bee wrapped in foil all will have traces of aluminium in them. It is important to be aware of the accumulative effect of Aluminium, although our body has the capabilities to eliminate small quantities of these via feces and urine, constant and prolonged exposure can leave to toxic overload and in turn chronic health issues.

Lead

Lead has been known to be hazardous and can be found in our drinking water, paint in old homes (newer paint is usually lead free) and tobacco smoke. When lead enters the body, it goes into the bloodstream and starts depositing itself in the bones, soft tissue and brain. According to the CDC at least 4 million households are being exposed to high levels of lead. Lead toxicity is dangerous can affect nearly every system in our body. Symptoms of lead poisoning do not usually appear until a dangerous amount of lead is accumulated. Below is a list of symptoms which can be attributed to lead toxicity.

How can we detox heavy metals from the body?

Although our body has amazing systems in place to support and detoxify what doesn’t belong, over exposure to any toxins can clog these channels and cause a build up that is very difficult to eliminate, so the body has no choice but to find storage for it in fat tissue, bones, joints and cartilage etc.

Infrared Sauna is one of the most effective ways to detox from heavy metals. Infrared wave-lengths penetrate deep into the body (via the skin) which releases toxins for the cell within fat layers and other tissue beneath the skin. Far Infrared raises your core temperature and heats the body several inches deep causing cells to vibrate. This vibration is the beginning of the detox process as the body will then be able to either eliminate these toxins via the skin (sweat) as well as via the kidney (urine).  Ensuring you are hydrated prior and after your Infrared Sauna session is paramount for best effect.

What if I don’t sweat?

If you don’t sweat, don’t worry. Most people have a nice “glow” about them after their first infrared session. It can take time for the elimination channels and lymphatic system to activate and get you perspiring this way. Repeated use of the sauna in close succession is recommended as well as ensuring you are hydrated and that your parasympathetic nervous system is activated. Even if you find you are not sweating a lot, it does not mean you are not getting the detoxification benefits of infrared. The body will find another channel (usually via the kidneys) to transport the toxins out of the body, this is why hydration is very important. 

What about Supplements?

There are many supplements on the market that claim to assist in the elimination of heavy metals. Products such as Zeolite, Bentonite Clay, Chlorella and other Chelating supplements are often prescribed (it is recommended to consult with your practitioner prior to consuming any supplements for heavy metal detoxification). Organic whole foods are another great way to assist the bodies ability to detox from toxins, check out our blog here that itemises alkalising foods to cleanse effectively.

Infrared saunas have been scientifically proven to reduce the risks associated with heavy metal toxicity, and Michigan-based cardiologist, Joel Kahn, agrees. He states…

“Sweating is one of the best and most effective ways of removing heavy metals from the body. Detoxifying your body of heavy metals has a number of benefits. You should notice sharper mental performance, more energy, and a stronger immune system.” 

Written by pH Clinic’s founder, Nicola Johnson

Nicola is a Colonic Hydrotherapist and GAPS practitioner, she has a keen interest in Detoxification and Gut Health.

You can see Nic at the clinic on Fridays and alternating Sundays.

pHClinic Team

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