Heavy metal toxicity is defined as more than the normal accumulation of metals in the human body. Oftentimes, the signs and symptoms of this condition are mistakenly diagnosed as other chronic conditions such as multiple sclerosis, autism and chronic fatigue syndrome. Microscopic pieces of metals in which humans are most commonly exposed include mercury, aluminum, arsenic, cadmium and lead. Humans are exposed to heavy metals everyday and exposure to these toxic substances is inevitable.
These heavy metals may be found from the environment, diet, cigarette smoking, as well as during dental restoration or dental filling. These metals get embedded inside the body, and in other vital organs like the liver, heart and kidneys. Excreting these metals from the body is usually not a problem. However, those who are suffering from chronic diseases tend to have problems excreting the heavy metals which often result to further accumulation and build up inside the body.
Studies have proven that numerous metals accumulated in the body produce a synergistic toxicity. Synergistic toxicity means that the toxicity level, when exposed to two toxins, is far greater than the additive toxicity levels of the two toxins. For example, a study conducted by a professor from the University of Kentucky, Dr. Boyd Haley, found that the mortality rate of rats exposed to a small dose of mercury or aluminum killed only 1 100 mice. However, when both mercury and aluminum has been combined at the same time, all 100 mice died, yielding to a 100 percent mortality rate.
Heavy metal toxicity is characterized by severe pain in soft tissues in body such as muscles and tendons, lethargy or weakness, mental deterioration, gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea and constipation, food allergies, dizziness, frequent migraine attacks or headache episodes, visual disturbances, sudden mood changes, depression, anxiety and other more serious nervous system malfunctions including paresthesia and paralysis.
Usually, these heavy metals do not cause problem. However, when free radicals react with these metals, a highly reactive chain reaction may occur. Free radicals are defined as atoms or groups of atoms with an unpaired number of electrons. These can also be formed when oxygen interacts with certain molecules. Free radicals are present in the human body and spread throughout new directions. The main problem arises when these highly reactive radicals react with important cellular components such as DNA, increasing the risk for more serious health problems such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
The most popular heavy metal detoxification program is chelation therapy. It involves the use of chelating agents - either intravenously, transdermally, or orally - to remove heavy metals from the body. The most common chelating agents are ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), 2,3-dimercaptopropanesulfonic acid (DMPS), thiamine tetrahydrofurfuryl disulfide (TTFD) and 2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA). These drugs act by adhering to heavy metals in the body, thus preventing them from binding to other agents which will then be excreted from the body.
During heavy metal detoxification, essential nutrients such as vitamin C and vitamin E are depleted since they are also excreted during the chelation process. Therefore, these vital nutrients must be supplemented during the entire course of the therapy. It is also strongly recommended to maintain a regular bowel movement of at least 2 to 3 times daily. A high protein diet should also be practiced during heavy metal detoxification program since amino acids found in protein greatly facilitate detoxification. Heavy metal detoxification program may also involve the use of chlorella, garlic, MSM and cilantro. Physical activities and heavy exercises have also been found to help the body release toxins. It aids in improving the immune system of the body.
Detoxification therapy may take a great deal of time, ranging from months to years, to completely rid the body from all the heavy metals which have accumulated over the years. A number of adverse effects may also arise during the entire course. Regular consultation with the physician will help provide knowledge with regards to the improvement of the condition resulting from heavy metal toxicity.
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