HEAVY METAL TOXICITY

Dr. David W. Quig, a PhD in nutritional biochemistry and expert in heavy metal toxicity, is a leading voice speaking out against our lackadaisical approach to chronic heavy metal poisoning.  Low level exposure to several heavy metals, particularly mercury, lead, arsenic and cadmium, are becoming increasingly apparent in a population suffering with chronic problems. 

Who is at risk of heavy metal toxicity?  Those at higher risk for mercury toxicity are regular fish consumers (especially tuna, farmed salmon and sword fish), those living in proximity to a former mercury mining site, recycling facility, volcano, coal-fired electric generating plant and/or medical incinerator, dentists or dental assistants,  those with mercury fillings, those who often use antiseptics, laxatives, diuretics, skin lightening creams and/or teething powders, frequent consumption of pesticides, fungicides, insecticides and use of mercury containing vaccinations (Ontario flu shot and hepatitis B vaccines).  Sources of aluminum exposure are medications (particularly buffered aspirin, antacids and vaccinations), water, soy based infant formulas and aluminum cookware.   Regular consumers of shellfish, shrimp, crab and lobster are at risk of arsenic toxicity.  Former painters (when lead was still in use) or welders, or anyone who has been exposed to leaded gas or who is living in an old house with lead pipes or lead paint, is at risk for lead toxicity. 

Do amalgams expose us to mercury?  Recent studies indicate a direct correlation between the number of amalgams in the mouth and measured mercury in the body.  The amalgam surface area of pregnant rats correlates with their offspring’s mercury found in the liver and kidneys. This is because mercury crosses the placenta.   The European community (Helsinki) limit for mercury drinking water content is exceeded by 90% of those with amalgams.  Furthermore, the average salivary mercury of those with amalgams was shown to be 23 times greater than those without.  Twenty percent of these people exceeded the mercury limit for sewage waste designated by the European community.  A study comparing 98 dentists to 52 controls, showed statistically significant differences in a number of areas of performance (such as motor skills) that related to possible neuron-toxicity.  If planning on getting amalgams removed, make sure you work with a naturopathic doctor to ensure proper elimination of mercury buildup resulting from the procedure.  Your dentist should provide the following: an alternative air source over the nose, air cleaners in the room, a dental dam and special drills with water instead of air to minimize mercury vapors. 

What diseases may be caused by heavy metals?  Two reputable studies have directly correlated lead levels to both hypertension in menopausal woman and to cardiovascular disease.   A study found a significant difference between analyzed hair samples of mercury for children who had been vaccinated but were normal and those who were autistic.  Parkinson’s disease may be linked to heavy metals such as iron and manganese. 

How does lifestyle and diet play a role?  Studies on mice show that both milk consumption and the use of antibiotics significantly compromise the body’s ability to excrete mercury. The later may be related to the fact that Candida in the large intestines, the organisms that multiply with antibiotic use, cannot excrete mercury.  One must be aware of heavy metal exposures via food.  For example, one should avoid any farmed salmon (those not labeled or any Atlantic salmon). Avoid regular consumption of shellfish, shrimp, crab and lobster, all of which are loaded with arsenic.  The body’s ability to bind heavy metals depends on a good supply of antioxidants which must come from both limiting our exposure to chemicals (pesticides, drug store cosmetics, various medications, etc.) as well as consuming them in the form of vegetables and fruits.