Yes, I do recommend controlling the amount of heavy metal you listen to, but I’m a mom of teenagers. I’m biased. . . lol!!! We’re not talking Ozzy here. We’re talking lead, mercury and other literal heavy metals in the body.

Heavy Metal Detox is a common phrase in holistic circles nowadays, but what does that really mean? Access to lab testing has increased. Consequently, the general population can observe the health effects of industrialization. These effects have been accumulating for the past 50 years in our environment and products we consume.

A disturbing trend shows increased levels of heavy, unhealthy metals in our bodies. Exposure to heavy toxic metals is associated with cellular damage, inflammation, impaired nervous system function, and cardiovascular disease. This has caused concern about the source and reason for the increase. Over the past decade, more research has emerged. This research points to the reasons. It also suggests what we can do about it.

What are Heavy Metals?

Common heavy metals associated with health concerns:*

• Lead: Neurological issues, developmental delays in children, anemia
• Mercury: Neurological damage, vision problems, tremors
• Arsenic: Skin lesions, gastrointestinal issues, increased cancer risk
• Cadmium: Kidney damage, bone disease
• Chromium (in high doses): Skin irritation, respiratory issues

Key organs affected by heavy metal toxicity:*

• Nervous system: Brain damage, memory loss, cognitive impairment, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage in extremities)
• Kidneys: Kidney dysfunction, impaired kidney function
• Liver: Liver damage, impaired liver function
• Blood system: Anemia
• Reproductive system: Infertility, birth defects
• Cardiovascular system: High blood pressure, cardiovascular disease 

How Do Heavy Metals Get Inside Us?

These metals accumulate in the body. We are exposed to them in our:

• food: pesticides, genetic tinkering, pollution
• clothing: sprayed on fabrics, pesticides, forever chemicals, etc
• jewelry: cadmium from China
• environment: chemtrails, pollution, industrial runoff and
• personal products: carpets, mattresses, upholstery, cosmetics, cleaners.

Over accumulation of heavy metals can cause a host of physical illnesses like:

• immune dysfunction
• neurological problems, memory loss, dementia
• lead to kidney & liver damage,
• infertility, hormonal issues
• Digestive problems
• cardiovascular events, inflammation
• potentially cancer may occur.

It sounds like a mRNA drug commercial. Don’t get me going. Folks with obesity, fatty liver disease or pre-diabetes, may potentially have a more difficult time with heavy metal accumulation. These toxic metals are stored in fat, so they accumulate more in people who struggle with obesity.

This also means that we are exposed to heavy metals more when we consume fatty meats. Studies show veggies ALSO have high levels of heavy metals sprayed on them. However, your body absorbs less of the metals sprayed on veggies, than from meat due to the fat content. This is why dropping fatty meat is often recommended. It helps reduce exposure to heavy metals. It also aids in cleaning out heavy metals from the body.

Same is true for most fish, even farm raised ones. SMASH fish have less heavy metals than other fish although they are fatty. Smaller fish that don’t live as long are also safer from absorbing heavy metals like: #SAFEFISH: shrimp, crab, and tilapia. The more you know, the less heavy metals you purposely ingest.

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Science has shown something interesting. People who lack healthy metals or essential minerals in their bodies tend to absorb MORE toxic heavy metals. Science indicates that the absence of healthy minerals increases heavy metal absorption. When healthy metals are abundant, heavy metals cannot be absorbed as well. This prevents them from causing as much damage.

What are Healthy Metals or Essential Minerals

Essential minerals needed in the body are known as healthy metals. They include calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, sodium, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, and iodine. The RDAs for these minerals vary depending on age and sex. They play crucial roles in bone health, oxygen transport, muscle function, nerve transmission, and immune system support. 

What are Signs and Symptoms of Essential Mineral Deficiency?

• Fatigue or weakness (Magnesium, Zinc, Selenium, Iron, Trace Minerals).
• Muscle cramps or spasms (Magnesium, Calcium).
• Hair thinning or hair loss (Zinc, Selenium, Iron, Trace Minerals).
• Brittle nails or weak nails with white spots (Zinc, Selenium, Calcium, Trace Minerals).
• Skin issues, such as dryness, acne, eczema, or rashes (Zinc, Trace Minerals).
• Slow wound healing (Zinc, Selenium).
• Frequent colds, infections, or reduced immunity (Zinc, Selenium, Trace Minerals).
• Cognitive issues like “brain fog” or difficulty concentrating (Magnesium, Selenium, Iron).
• Mood changes, such as irritability, anxiety, or depression (Magnesium, Calcium, Selenium).
• Shortness of breath, especially during activity (Iron).
• Bone and joint pain or fractures (Calcium, Trace Minerals).
• Dental issues like weak teeth or cavities (Calcium).
• Cold intolerance or sluggishness (Selenium, Iron).
• Numbness or tingling in extremities (Magnesium, Calcium).
• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations (Magnesium, Calcium).
• Cravings for non-food items (pica), such as ice, dirt, or clay (Iron).

Recommended Daily Doses & Job Duties:*

• Calcium: 1000-1300 mg per day / Primarily responsible for strong bones and teeth, also regulates muscle contractions and nerve impulses. 
• Iron: 8-18mg per day / – Essential for carrying oxygen in the blood through hemoglobin. 
• Magnesium: 350-420 mg per day / Supports bone health, muscle function, and nerve transmission. 
• Potassium:  4700 mg per day/Critical for maintaining electrolyte balance and proper heart rhythm. 
• Sodium: 1500 mg per day / Necessary for fluid regulation and nerve function, but should be consumed in moderation. 
• Zinc: 8-11mg per day / Plays a vital role in immune function, wound healing, and protein synthesis. 
• Copper: 800-1000 mcg per day / Assists in iron absorption and helps with bone formation. 
• Manganese: 1.8-2.6 mg per day / Involved in enzyme function and antioxidant activity. 
• Selenium: 55-70 mcg per day / Supports thyroid function and acts as an antioxidant. 
• Iodine: 150-200 mcg per day / Crucial for thyroid hormone production.
• Phosphorus: 1,250 milligrams per day / cell maintenance and bone health

So What Do I Do Now?

We can reduce toxic metals in the body by performing a heavy metal detox. It’s also important to regularly supplement essential minerals. Let’s learn more.

Heavy Metal Detox: Steps to Take

1. Reduce Exposure to Heavy Metals:
   • Avoid Contaminated Foods: Limit intake of fish high in mercury, such as shark, swordfish, and king mackerel.
   • Be Mindful of Water Sources: Install a high-quality reverse osmosis water filter. It will remove heavy metals from the water in your house.
   • Avoid Aluminum & Teflon Cookware: Switch to stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic cookware.
   • Check Personal Care Products: Avoid deodorants, makeup, and other products containing aluminum or heavy metals.
2. Supplement with Essential Minerals:
   • Why It’s Important: Heavy metals compete with essential minerals like zinc, magnesium, and selenium in your body. Supplementing ensures these vital minerals are available.
   • Recommendations:
     • Vital Earth Colloidal Fulvic and Humic Minerals: Excellent for absorption due to their liquid bioavailability and support in detox processes.
     • Magnesium Glycinate: Helps reduce oxidative stress and supports cellular detox.
     • Zinc Picolinate: Boosts immunity and aids in chelation.
     • Selenium: Supports glutathione production, a key antioxidant for detoxification.
3. Periodic Heavy Metal Detox: Last and First Quarter Moon
   • Herbs & Substances for Detoxification:
     • Shilajit: A natural mineral resin containing fulvic acid; enhances detox and mineral absorption.
     • Zeolite: A natural volcanic mineral that binds heavy metals and toxins, removing them safely.
     • Cilantro (Coriander): Known for its ability to chelate heavy metals like lead and mercury.
     • Chlorella: A powerful green algae that binds to heavy metals and aids in their excretion.
     • Milk Thistle: Supports liver detox and protects the liver from oxidative damage.
     • Modified Citrus Pectin (MCP): Binds to heavy metals and helps with gentle detox.
     • N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC): Boosts glutathione levels for enhanced detoxification.
     • Activated Charcoal: Absorbs toxins in the gut and prevents reabsorption.
     • OTC Combination Formulas: like safe formula: Ultra Human’s Detox 19: Heavy Metal Cleanse. Take during the last and first quarter moon.
4. Foods to Add:
   • Detox-Supportive Foods:
     • Garlic: Contains sulfur compounds that help with heavy metal chelation.
     • Onions: Rich in sulfur to support liver detox.
     • Green Leafy Vegetables: Kale, spinach, and parsley support cellular detox.
     • Broccoli Sprouts: High in sulforaphane, boosting glutathione and detox pathways.
     • Berries: Rich in antioxidants to combat oxidative stress from heavy metals.
     • Wild Blueberries: Especially effective in removing aluminum from the brain.
   • Hydration: Drink plenty of filtered water to support kidney detox.
5. Foods to Avoid:
   • Processed and Packaged Foods: May contain hidden heavy metals.
   • High-Mercury Fish: Avoid shark, swordfish, and king mackerel.
   • Artificial Sweeteners and Additives: These can burden the liver and slow detox pathways. Yes Karen, that means you! LOL
   • Non-Organic Produce: Opt for organic to avoid pesticide contamination.
6. Potential Conflicts:
   • Calcium and Iron: These compete for absorption. If supplementing with calcium, take it away from iron-containing foods or supplements.
   • Chelators vs. Nutrients: Chelators like zeolite or activated charcoal can bind to beneficial minerals if taken together. Space these apart from meals and supplements. I recommend taking these at night during your body’s natural detox time.
7. Lifestyle Enhancements:
   • Dry Brushing: Stimulates the lymphatic system to remove toxins.
   • Sauna Therapy: Promotes sweating to eliminate heavy metals.
   • Epsom Salt Baths: Provides magnesium and enhances detoxification.
8. Final Notes:
   • Always consult with a healthcare professional before beginning a detox program, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing chronic illness.
   • Detoxification should be gradual to prevent overwhelm of detox organs like the liver and kidneys.

*https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23424-heavy-metal-poisoning-toxicity

/.*https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/precious-metals-and-other-important-minerals-for-health