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A Root Cause Approach To Mercury Toxicity: A Comprehensive Guide

Why This Was Updated?

Our specialists regularly review advancements in health and wellness, ensuring our articles are updated with the newest information as it becomes accessible.
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Did you know that the food you eat, especially seafood, accounts for over 98% of mercury exposure in your body? This staggering statistic is a wake-up call for everyone who believes in the importance of a healthy diet. Mercury can affect multiple organ systems in the body.Β 

As pollution surges, mercury levels rise in tandem. Industrial activities discharge mercury into our water systems. This mercury is then transformed by bacteria and plankton into a form readily consumed by fish. Eventually, humans ingest this mercury when consuming fish. Larger fish like swordfish and sharks are exceptionally high in mercury. Put in perspective, one 4 oz portion of swordfish contains approximately 4.5 times the WHO limit of 45mcg/day.Β 

In this article, we're going to break down the basics of mercury: what it is, the effects of exposure, and the top tests to gauge its impact on the body. Plus, we'll share some dietary tips to counteract its effects and dive into supplements and other helpful therapies.

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What is Mercury?

Mercury symbolized as "Hg" on the periodic table, exists in several states:Β 

Elemental MercuryΒ 

This silver-white metal is liquid at room temperature and is found in dental fillings, older thermometers, and electrical equipment. If spilled, it can evaporate, becoming an odorless toxic vapor (5).Β 

Inorganic Mercury (Industry-Related)

Common in the environment, inorganic mercury can combine with various elements to form salts. These salts might be present in water, soil, and the atmosphere due to industrial activities. Historically used in medicines, their presence is still found in products like skin creams (5).Β 

Methylmercury (Found in Seafood)

Methylmercury is primarily formed when inorganic mercury, often released from industrial processes, enters aquatic environments like rivers and seas. In these waters, bacteria and plankton undertake a process that transforms this inorganic mercury into methylmercury. As a result, aquatic organisms, starting from the smallest microbes and reaching up to the larger predatory fish, begin to accumulate this toxin. Over time, this leads to the bioaccumulation of methylmercury in larger fish species that sit atop the aquatic food chain. When humans consume these contaminated fish, they, too, become exposed to this potent form of mercury (5).Β 

What is Mercury Toxicity?

Mercury toxicity describes the adverse reactions resulting from excessive mercury exposure. Mercury toxicity and mercury poisoning, though closely linked, are not identical. Mercury toxicity describes the detrimental consequences of mercury exposure, while mercury poisoning is a specialized condition resulting from an excessive amount of mercury contact.

A predominant cause of toxicity is the consumption of methylmercury, often found in seafood. The severity and type of health consequences from mercury depend on factors like the mercury form, amount of exposure, age of the individual, duration of contact, method of exposure, and one's overall health. Both elemental and methylmercury pose risks, potentially impacting the nervous, digestive, and immune systems, as well as the lungs and kidneys. In extreme situations, prolonged mercury exposure can lead to irreversible lung and potential brain harm (7).Β 

Mercury Toxicity Signs & Symptoms

Signs and symptoms for mercury toxicity change depending on the patient profile, the type of mercury, and the length or quantity of exposure. Some patients with chronic low-grade mercury exposure may be asymptomatic (7,9,10).Β 

  • Anxiety or unease
  • Mood fluctuations or irritability
  • Loss of sensation
  • Challenges with memory
  • Insomnia
  • Shaking or tremors
  • Weakness in muscles
  • Feeling sick or throwing up
  • Unsteadiness or lack of coordination
  • Numbness in areas like the hands or face
  • Alterations in sight, sound, or verbal communication
  • Challenges with respiration
  • Trouble maintaining posture or walking
  • Diminished motor function
  • Cognitive challenges or difficulty in decision-making

What Are The Possible Causes Of Mercury Toxicity?

The causes of mercury toxicity are dependent upon the exposure type. Studies have shown that the major contributor to mercury exposure in humans is the ingestion of food (usually seafood), accounting for over 98% of mercury exposure (1).

Seafood

Methylmercury is most often associated with seafood. While most dietary sources contain relatively low mercury levels, seafood, particularly fish and shellfish, often have much higher concentrations. An estimated 90% of the mercury in seafood is in the form of methylmercury. Further emphasizing its potency, research suggests that when methylmercury enters the human system, as much as 95% of it can remain, showcasing its significant tendency for bioaccumulation. As a result, individuals, especially those who consume a lot of seafood, should be cautious and informed about their potential intake (6).Β 

Methylmercury’s absorption rates are alarmingly high: over 95% in the gastrointestinal system and around 80% through respiratory pathways. Post absorption, it spreads across all bodily tissues within a mere 30 hours. Notably, the elimination of methylmercury is primarily fecal, with roughly 90% being expelled via bile into the feces and a minor portion, less than 10%, excreted in urine. The compound's persistence is evident in its half-life, which spans between 45 to 70 days (9).Β 

Products and Dental Fillings

The most common exposures to elemental mercury occur when mercury is released from a broken container, product, or device, allowing it to evaporate into an invisible, toxic vapor. Potential sources include broken fever thermometers, novelty jewelry, various consumer products, dental amalgams, and certain mining practices (11).Β 

People sometimes worry about mercury exposure from dental fillings. Dental amalgams, used for nearly a century, release a tiny amount of mercury (2-20 mcg/day) during actions like chewing. Chewing gum can increase this release. Mouth bacteria convert some of this mercury into forms that the body absorbs. However, the mercury from fillings is below the World Health Organization's daily safety standard of 45 mcg/day. For perspective, while many foods contain minimal mercury, some game fish have levels exceeding 2.0 mcg/g, making fish a more common mercury source for many individuals (13).Β 

Other Exposures

Other mercury compounds, like phenylmercury acetate and ethylmercury, were previously widespread in fungicides, preservatives, and antiseptics. While many of their applications have been discontinued, some still exist. Furthermore, mercury is still present in some skin-lightening and anti-aging products manufactured abroad but sold illegally in the U.S. Overusing or misusing these products, especially older ones with higher mercury concentrations, can lead to excessive mercury exposure (11).Β 

Functional Medicine Labs to Test for Root Cause of Mercury Toxicity

Functional medicine labs offer a variety of tests that can help tailor treatment to patients, allowing providers to optimize management strategies.

Heavy Metal Testing

When testing for mercury exposure, it's important to remember that levels found in blood, hair, and urine mainly show recent exposure and don't truly represent the total mercury present in the entire body. Since mercury stays in the blood for only about three to five days before it's either expelled or settles in organs, levels found in testing may not truly reflect total body burden (7).

Heavy Metal Testing - Urine

Urine tests are primarily useful for those who might have been exposed to metallic or inorganic mercury compounds. The advantage of urine tests is their stability and simplicity. Inorganic mercury is predominantly reflected in urine, whereas organic forms like methylmercury are primarily excreted through feces. Persistent high concentrations in the urine can indicate long-term exposure. Concentrations beyond 100 ΞΌg/L might lead to neurological issues, and levels above 800 ΞΌg/L can be lethal (9).Β 

Heavy Metal Testing - Blood

When an individual is suspected of recent mercury exposure or consumes seafood regularly, blood mercury concentration testing is advisable. This is because blood levels can provide insight into both recent and chronic mercury exposure. Shortly after a brief exposure, blood mercury concentrations spike, necessitating immediate testing. For those who've experienced chronic exposure, even after ceasing contact with the source, blood mercury levels can remain elevated. Normal whole blood mercury is usually below 10 ng/mL (9,12).Β 

Heavy Metal Testing - Hair

Hair tests assess chronic exposure to methylmercury and are especially recommended for pregnant women, as elevated levels (above 10 ppm) can pose a neurological risk to the fetus. Mercury's presence in hair is a long-term indicator, as once mercury binds to the hair, it remains permanently. Typically, mercury concentrations in hair shouldn't surpass 10 mg/kg, but in cases of moderate to severe poisoning, these levels can range from 200 mg/kg to 2400 mg/kg respectively (9).Β 

Comprehensive Stool Test

Exposure to toxic metals, like mercury, can disrupt gut microbiota and target the gut as a primary tissue, leading to imbalances known as dysbiosis. A comprehensive gastrointestinal test, which measures microbiota imbalances and gut integrity markers like zonulin, is helpful for assessing the impact of mercury on gut health, as mercury exposure has also been shown to negatively impact intestinal barrier function. Utilizing such a test can help guide therapeutic interventions to restore gut balance after exposure.

Nutritional Testing

Nutritional assessment is a valuable tool for identifying potential deficiencies that may enhance susceptibility to mercury toxicity. Evaluating the levels of key nutrients like selenium and zinc can provide insights into their contribution to mercury detoxification in the body.

Organic Acid Testing

Organic acid testing can help identify imbalances in detoxification or metabolic pathways that may be contributing to mercury toxicity. This test measures the levels of organic acids in the urine, which can provide insight into how the body is metabolizing nutrients and detoxifying harmful substances.

Hs-CRP Testing

Studies have shown a correlation between elevated inflammation in the body and mercury exposure.Β 

Additional Lab TestsΒ 

For a comprehensive evaluation of potential mercury intoxication, a series of clinical laboratory tests might be prescribed. While most outpatient tests offer a general mercury measure without differentiating its forms, additional assessments, including renal and hepatic function tests, ECG, and neuropsychological evaluations, can provide a broader picture. These results can be influenced by factors other than mercury, so it's essential to interpret them in conjunction with known exposure and observed symptoms (9).Β 

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Conventional Treatment for Mercury Toxicity

When there's a suspicion of mercury toxicity in a patient, conventional treatment focuses on obtaining a comprehensive history of their exposure, identifying and eliminating any ongoing sources of mercury, and rigorously monitoring their respiratory and cardiovascular systems. For less symptomatic cases, removal of the source of mercury is advised. If there's evidence of inorganic mercury ingestion, monitoring its progression through the GI tract using X-rays is vital, and any resultant symptoms should be treated as one would for corrosive ingestion. Chelating agents, particularly DMSA, are often the first line of treatment, especially for severe methylmercury cases, due to their minimized side effects (9).Β 

Functional Medicine Treatment for Mercury Toxicity

In functional medicine, we prioritize a multifaceted treatment plan for mercury toxicity. This entails a combination of targeted nutrition, supplements, and complementary practices.Β 

Nutrition To Help Treat Mercury Toxicity

Mercury exposure, predominantly from seafood, poses a significant threat to human health due to its easy absorption in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. With over 95% of ingested methylmercury being absorbed, there's evident damage to the gut, leading to conditions like "leaky gut" syndrome. This not only compromises the gut barrier but can cascade into a myriad of other health issues.Β 

Addressing mercury toxicity nutritionally encompasses two main strategies: firstly, limiting mercury intake by opting for low-mercury fish, and secondly, actively healing the gut. The role of gut bacteria is crucial in this context. A healthy gut microbiome plays a pivotal role in mitigating the adverse effects of mercury. Studies have demonstrated that the absence of beneficial gut bacteria accelerates the accumulation of mercury in critical organs such as the brain, liver, and lungs (9).Β 

In the face of mercury-induced gut damage, embracing a nutrient-rich diet is a critical part of fixing the gut. Anti-inflammatory diets serve as an excellent starting point, focusing on foods that combat inflammation, such as leafy greens, berries, nuts, and fatty fish. These foods not only provide essential nutrients but also aid in repairing damaged gut lining. Similarly, the Mediterranean diet, characterized by its high consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and olive oil, coupled with moderate fish and poultry intake, can be invaluable. Rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, the Mediterranean diet promotes a balanced and diverse gut microbiome, aiding in both healing the gut and reducing the overall toxicity of mercury in the body.

Supplements & Herbs To Help Treat Mercury Toxicity

Supplements that may help with the effects of mercury toxicity include:

Probiotics

Mercury can disrupt gut health by inhibiting beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus. Probiotics may counteract this effect by replenishing healthy bacteria levels in the gut.

Selenium

Mercury has a notably high binding affinity to selenium, causing it to attach strongly to selenium when it enters the body. Selenium, found in various foods such as Brazil nuts, can cause a "sink" effect, redirecting mercury away from the brain, a primary target for mercury toxicity. This binding action serves as a protective mechanism, reducing mercury's harmful body effects. Notably, while high mercury exposure can hinder selenium-dependent enzyme activities in fetal brains, increased selenium in the maternal diet can counteract this. Therefore, when assessing mercury exposure risks, it's vital to factor in selenium intake and its distribution in tissues.

Zinc

Zinc plays a protective role against mercury toxicity. Studies have shown that even after prolonged exposure to mercury, zinc can counteract its harmful biochemical effects. Interestingly, individuals with higher mercury levels often exhibit reduced zinc and copper levels. Both metals bind to metallothionein, but zinc's presence may prevent mercury from displacing them, further showcasing its defensive role against mercury's adverse effects.

Glutathione

Glutathione may offer protection against the neurological and renal damage caused by mercury. Beyond its antioxidant properties, glutathione binds to heavy metals like mercury, assisting in their detoxification. The protective and detoxifying roles of glutathione emphasize its significance in combating mercury toxicity.

Complementary and Integrative Medicine To Help Treat Mercury Toxicity

Mercury toxicity is linked to heightened inflammation in the body. Stress-reducing methods like yoga, deep breathing, and meditation can potentially counteract these effects. In addition, regular exercise can also reduce stress and inflammation levels in the body. Therefore, these techniques may indirectly diminish the inflammation associated with mercury exposure (19).Β 

Saunas, which have been an integral part of various cultures worldwide, promotes sweating and could be a beneficial tool for aiding mercury detoxification. A small study hints that the human body might excrete mercury through sweat, sometimes even more effectively than through urine.Β 

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Summary

In summary, mercury exposure, predominantly from seafood, presents a significant risk to human health due to its high absorption rate and detrimental effects on various organ systems. Mercury, found in varying forms like elemental mercury, inorganic mercury, and particularly methylmercury, accumulates in seafood, making it the primary source of human exposure. Mercury toxicity encompasses the adverse outcomes from this exposure, with a distinct difference from mercury poisoning, which denotes an acute overexposure. Testing for mercury levels involves diverse techniques, from heavy metal testing to comprehensive stool and nutritional testing, highlighting its widespread effects on the body.

Conventional treatments for mercury toxicity focus on history, source removal, and essential monitoring, with chelating agents like DMSA at the forefront for severe cases. However, functional medicine brings a holistic lens, emphasizing the importance of targeted nutrition, such as anti-inflammatory and Mediterranean diets, and the pivotal role of a healthy gut microbiome. Supplements like probiotics, selenium, zinc, and glutathione offer an additional defense, addressing mercury's effects on the gut and broader systems. Complementary practices, such as stress-reducing techniques and regular exercise, further support the body's resilience against mercury's inflammatory impact.

Did you know that the food you eat, especially seafood, may contribute to a significant portion of mercury exposure in your body? This information highlights the importance of being mindful of dietary choices. Mercury can potentially affect multiple organ systems in the body.Β 

As pollution increases, mercury levels may rise as well. Industrial activities can release mercury into water systems, where it is transformed by bacteria and plankton into a form that fish can consume. Humans may then ingest this mercury when eating fish. Larger fish like swordfish and sharks tend to have higher mercury levels. For example, one 4 oz portion of swordfish may contain mercury levels that exceed recommended limits.Β 

In this article, we'll explore the basics of mercury: what it is, the potential effects of exposure, and some tests that can help assess its impact on the body. Plus, we'll share some dietary tips and discuss supplements and other supportive therapies.

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What is Mercury?

Mercury, symbolized as "Hg" on the periodic table, exists in several forms:Β 

Elemental MercuryΒ 

This silver-white metal is liquid at room temperature and can be found in dental fillings, older thermometers, and electrical equipment. If spilled, it can evaporate, becoming an odorless vapor.Β 

Inorganic Mercury (Industry-Related)

Inorganic mercury can combine with various elements to form salts, which might be present in water, soil, and the atmosphere due to industrial activities. Historically used in medicines, these salts can still be found in some products like skin creams.Β 

Methylmercury (Found in Seafood)

Methylmercury is primarily formed when inorganic mercury enters aquatic environments like rivers and seas. Bacteria and plankton transform this mercury into methylmercury, which accumulates in fish. When humans consume these fish, they may be exposed to this form of mercury.Β 

What is Mercury Toxicity?

Mercury toxicity refers to the potential adverse effects resulting from mercury exposure. It is important to differentiate between mercury toxicity and mercury poisoning, which is a specific condition resulting from excessive mercury exposure.

A predominant cause of mercury exposure is the consumption of methylmercury in seafood. The potential health effects depend on factors like the form of mercury, amount of exposure, age, duration of contact, method of exposure, and overall health. Both elemental and methylmercury may impact the nervous, digestive, and immune systems, as well as the lungs and kidneys. In extreme situations, prolonged exposure could lead to significant health issues.Β 

Mercury Toxicity Signs & Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of mercury exposure can vary depending on the individual, the type of mercury, and the length or quantity of exposure. Some individuals with low-level exposure may not show symptoms.Β 

  • Anxiety or unease
  • Mood fluctuations or irritability
  • Loss of sensation
  • Challenges with memory
  • Insomnia
  • Shaking or tremors
  • Weakness in muscles
  • Feeling sick or throwing up
  • Unsteadiness or lack of coordination
  • Numbness in areas like the hands or face
  • Alterations in sight, sound, or verbal communication
  • Challenges with respiration
  • Trouble maintaining posture or walking
  • Diminished motor function
  • Cognitive challenges or difficulty in decision-making

What Are The Possible Causes Of Mercury Toxicity?

The causes of mercury exposure can vary. Studies have shown that a major contributor to mercury exposure in humans is the ingestion of food, particularly seafood.

Seafood

Methylmercury is often associated with seafood. While most dietary sources contain relatively low mercury levels, seafood, particularly fish and shellfish, can have higher concentrations. Research suggests that when methylmercury enters the human system, a significant portion may remain, highlighting its potential for bioaccumulation. Individuals who consume a lot of seafood should be informed about their potential intake.Β 

Methylmercury’s absorption rates are high, and it spreads across bodily tissues relatively quickly. The elimination of methylmercury is primarily through feces, with a smaller portion excreted in urine. Its persistence is evident in its half-life, which can span several weeks.Β 

Products and Dental Fillings

Elemental mercury exposure can occur when mercury is released from a broken container or product, allowing it to evaporate into vapor. Potential sources include broken thermometers, certain consumer products, dental amalgams, and some mining practices.Β 

There is sometimes concern about mercury exposure from dental fillings. Dental amalgams release a small amount of mercury during actions like chewing. However, the mercury from fillings is generally below safety standards. While many foods contain minimal mercury, some fish have higher levels, making them a more common source of mercury for many individuals.Β 

Other Exposures

Other mercury compounds were previously used in fungicides, preservatives, and antiseptics. While many of these applications have been discontinued, some still exist. Mercury is also present in some skin-lightening and anti-aging products manufactured abroad but sold illegally in the U.S. Overusing these products can lead to excessive mercury exposure.Β 

Functional Medicine Labs to Test for Mercury Exposure

Functional medicine labs offer a variety of tests that can help tailor management strategies for individuals.

Heavy Metal Testing

When testing for mercury exposure, it's important to remember that levels found in blood, hair, and urine mainly show recent exposure and don't truly represent the total mercury present in the entire body. Since mercury stays in the blood for only a short time before it's either expelled or settles in organs, levels found in testing may not truly reflect total body burden.Β 

Heavy Metal Testing - Urine

Urine tests are primarily useful for those who might have been exposed to metallic or inorganic mercury compounds. The advantage of urine tests is their stability and simplicity. Inorganic mercury is predominantly reflected in urine, whereas organic forms like methylmercury are primarily excreted through feces. Persistent high concentrations in the urine can indicate long-term exposure.Β 

Heavy Metal Testing - Blood

When an individual is suspected of recent mercury exposure or consumes seafood regularly, blood mercury concentration testing can be helpful. This is because blood levels can provide insight into both recent and chronic mercury exposure. Shortly after a brief exposure, blood mercury concentrations may spike, necessitating immediate testing. For those who've experienced chronic exposure, blood mercury levels can remain elevated.Β 

Heavy Metal Testing - Hair

Hair tests assess chronic exposure to methylmercury and are especially recommended for pregnant women, as elevated levels can pose a risk to the fetus. Mercury's presence in hair is a long-term indicator, as once mercury binds to the hair, it remains permanently.Β 

Comprehensive Stool Test

Exposure to toxic metals, like mercury, can potentially disrupt gut microbiota and affect gut health. A comprehensive gastrointestinal test, which measures microbiota imbalances and gut integrity markers, can be helpful for assessing the impact of mercury on gut health. Utilizing such a test can help guide interventions to support gut balance after exposure.

Nutritional Testing

Nutritional assessment is a valuable tool for identifying potential deficiencies that may enhance susceptibility to mercury exposure. Evaluating the levels of key nutrients like selenium and zinc can provide insights into their role in supporting the body's natural detoxification processes.

Organic Acid Testing

Organic acid testing can help identify imbalances in detoxification or metabolic pathways that may be contributing to mercury exposure. This test measures the levels of organic acids in the urine, which can provide insight into how the body is metabolizing nutrients and detoxifying substances.

Hs-CRP Testing

Studies have shown a correlation between elevated inflammation in the body and mercury exposure.Β 

Additional Lab TestsΒ 

For a comprehensive evaluation of potential mercury exposure, a series of clinical laboratory tests might be prescribed. While most outpatient tests offer a general mercury measure without differentiating its forms, additional assessments, including renal and hepatic function tests, ECG, and neuropsychological evaluations, can provide a broader picture. These results can be influenced by factors other than mercury, so it's essential to interpret them in conjunction with known exposure and observed symptoms.Β 

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Conventional Approaches for Mercury Exposure

When there's a suspicion of mercury exposure in a patient, conventional approaches focus on obtaining a comprehensive history of their exposure, identifying and eliminating any ongoing sources of mercury, and monitoring their respiratory and cardiovascular systems. For less symptomatic cases, removal of the source of mercury is advised. If there's evidence of inorganic mercury ingestion, monitoring its progression through the GI tract using X-rays is important, and any resultant symptoms should be managed appropriately. Chelating agents may be considered for severe cases.Β 

Functional Medicine Approaches for Mercury Exposure

In functional medicine, a multifaceted approach is often used for mercury exposure. This may include a combination of targeted nutrition, supplements, and complementary practices.Β 

Nutrition To Support Mercury Exposure Management

Mercury exposure, predominantly from seafood, may affect gut health due to its absorption in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Addressing mercury exposure nutritionally can involve two main strategies: limiting mercury intake by choosing low-mercury fish and supporting gut health. A healthy gut microbiome plays a role in mitigating the effects of mercury. Studies have shown that the absence of beneficial gut bacteria may increase mercury accumulation in critical organs.Β 

In the face of mercury exposure, embracing a nutrient-rich diet can be a critical part of supporting gut health. Anti-inflammatory diets, focusing on foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, and fatty fish, can provide essential nutrients and support gut health. Similarly, the Mediterranean diet, characterized by its high consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and olive oil, coupled with moderate fish and poultry intake, can be beneficial. Rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, the Mediterranean diet may promote a balanced and diverse gut microbiome.

Supplements & Herbs To Support Mercury Exposure Management

Supplements that may help support the body's response to mercury exposure include:

Probiotics

Mercury can affect gut health by impacting beneficial bacteria. Probiotics may help support healthy bacteria levels in the gut.

Selenium

Mercury has a high affinity for selenium, which can help redirect mercury away from sensitive areas like the brain. Selenium, found in foods such as Brazil nuts, may play a protective role in the body.

Zinc

Zinc may play a protective role against mercury exposure. Studies have shown that zinc can help counteract mercury's effects. Individuals with higher mercury levels may exhibit reduced zinc levels, highlighting zinc's potential role in supporting the body's defenses.

Glutathione

Glutathione may offer support against the effects of mercury exposure. It has antioxidant properties and may assist in detoxifying heavy metals like mercury.

Complementary and Integrative Practices To Support Mercury Exposure Management

Mercury exposure is linked to inflammation in the body. Stress-reducing methods like yoga, deep breathing, and meditation may help support the body's response to inflammation. Regular exercise can also support overall health and well-being. These techniques may indirectly support the body's resilience against the effects of mercury exposure.Β 

Saunas, which have been used in various cultures worldwide, promote sweating and may be a supportive tool for aiding the body's natural detoxification processes. Some studies suggest that the body might excrete mercury through sweat.Β 

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Summary

In summary, mercury exposure, predominantly from seafood, may pose a risk to human health due to its absorption and potential effects on various organ systems. Mercury, found in forms like elemental mercury, inorganic mercury, and methylmercury, accumulates in seafood, making it a primary source of exposure. Mercury toxicity refers to the potential adverse outcomes from this exposure, with a distinction from mercury poisoning, which denotes acute overexposure. Testing for mercury levels involves various techniques, from heavy metal testing to comprehensive stool and nutritional testing, highlighting its potential effects on the body.

Conventional approaches for mercury exposure focus on history, source removal, and monitoring, with chelating agents considered for severe cases. Functional medicine offers a holistic perspective, emphasizing the importance of targeted nutrition, such as anti-inflammatory and Mediterranean diets, and the role of a healthy gut microbiome. Supplements like probiotics, selenium, zinc, and glutathione may offer additional support, addressing mercury's effects on the gut and broader systems. Complementary practices, such as stress-reducing techniques and regular exercise, further support the body's resilience against mercury's impact.

The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider before taking any dietary supplement or making any changes to your diet or exercise routine.
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