As a society, we continue to face growing exposure to environmental toxins and heavy metals that can negatively impact our health. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) informs that the general population is exposed to toxic metals, with lead being the most prevalent. These metals are dispersed through the food we ingest, the air we breathe, and the water we drink.

Ongoing exposure to these heavy metals, including lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic, can build up in our systems over time and contribute to various symptoms and health conditions. This article will discuss what heavy metals are, their effects on our health, how to assess their accumulation in our bodies, and some functional approaches we can use to detoxify properly.

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What are Heavy Metals?

Heavy metals are metallic elements naturally occurring throughout the earth's crust.

Although some heavy metals, such as copper, iron, and zinc, are essential nutrients needed for cellular function in plants and animals, excessive amounts can cause cellular and tissue damage, leading to adverse effects and diseases. Other heavy metals, including aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury, are considered non-essential.

Heavy metals are gaining attention due to their extensive use in various industries, such as agriculture, medicine, and technology. Due to this extensive use, there are concerns about the potential effects of heavy metals on human health and the environment. Some heavy metals that pose significant public health risks are arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, and mercury. Even at lower levels of exposure, these heavy metals are known to induce damage to multiple organs in the body. They are considered carcinogens by the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer) and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency).  

How Do Heavy Metals Build Up In Our Bodies?

Heavy metals generally occur naturally but can become harmful when they contaminate the environment due to human activity. The contamination can occur through activities such as mining, industry, agriculture, and creating metal-based products. These metals can enter our bodies through polluted air, soil, and water which then can build up through consistent exposure. Even at low exposures, non-essential metals like arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, and mercury can cause damage to our cells and organ systems.

Heavy metals can build up in individuals through various routes. Occupational exposure is one-way individuals may come into contact with toxic metals such as mercury and lead. Workers in metalworking industries, historic apple orchards, and those in professions like firefighting, dentistry, and mechanics are at risk of heavy metal exposure. Daily activities also contribute to exposure, such as consuming fish contaminated with mercury, using certain supplements with heavy metal contamination, unknowingly ingesting food grown in soil with high metal concentrations, and drinking water contaminated with metals like arsenic or lead.

Additionally, breathing polluted air from industries or coal burning and using lead-containing ceramics or crystalware for food or drink can also result in heavy metal exposure. It is crucial to be aware of these potential sources and take necessary precautions to minimize the buildup of heavy metals in our bodies.

Symptoms of Heavy Metal Toxicity

The symptoms of heavy metal toxicity can vary depending on the specific metal involved, as well as the duration and level of exposure. Acute heavy metal poisoning is a medical emergency; if you experience symptoms with a known exposure, it's vital to seek immediate medical attention. Acute symptoms of heavy metal exposure may include chills, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, dehydration, numbness in hands or feet, and weakness.

Toxic metals can also cause harm to the body through chronic exposure and accumulation. This accumulation generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) and causes a depletion of glutathione, which overwhelms the body's antioxidant defense systems and can lead to DNA damage, inflammation, and cell damage.

Cumulative heavy metal toxicity can lead to various symptoms and health conditions. Some of these include:

• Alzheimer's disease has been associated with exposure to mercury and aluminum.
• Parkinson's disease has been linked to exposure to metals such as mercury, lead, manganese, copper, iron, aluminum, bismuth, thallium, and zinc.
• A chronic fight-or-flight state that leads to a poor stress response
• Cadmium and chromium have been linked to early pregnancy loss.
• Heart attacks.
• Chronic fatigue.
• Autoimmune diseases and allergies.
• Brain fog.
• Depression and anxiety.
• Digestive issues can result from heavy metals impacting the balance of the gut microbiome.

It is important to note that symptoms of heavy metal toxicity can be nonspecific and may overlap with other health conditions. If you suspect heavy metal exposure and experience any concerning symptoms, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for proper assessment and guidance.

Functional Medicine Labs to Test That Can Help Diagnose Heavy Metals Build Up

Certain labs listed below can help detect if heavy metals have accumulated in a individual’s body:

Heavy Metals Panel

This heavy metal panel is completed through a urine sample. This panel assesses 20 of the most common heavy metals, including aluminum, cadmium, lead, arsenic, tin, and mercury. This test will analyze the buildup of these heavy metals allowing for proper management of related symptoms.

Hair Elements Analysis

The Hair Elements analysis is a noninvasive screening test that provides valuable information on exposure to toxic metals like methylmercury and arsenic and the status of essential nutrient elements. These elements may be up to 300 times more highly concentrated in hair than in urine or blood. Hair acts as an excretory tissue, incorporating trace elements during its growth. It is ideal for detecting exposure to toxic elements such as antimony, arsenic, cadmium, aluminum, lead, and mercury.

Functional Medicine Labs to Test That Can Help Individualize Treatment Options For Patients With Heavy Metals Build Up

To further individualize treatment options, the following labs can be useful:

Organic Acids Test (OAT)

The OAT is a valuable tool in functional medicine for assessing imbalances and toxicity and identifying potential causes of inflammation. This analysis can reveal how well the body deals with possible exposure to different toxicities that can cause various issues, such as neurological issues. Utilizing the OAT will allow practitioners to monitor symptoms related to heavy metal toxicities.

Micronutrient Panel

This micronutrient panel helps identify specific micronutrient deficiencies that may exacerbate the consequences of heavy metal toxicity. Healthcare practitioners can tailor nutritional therapy to address these deficiencies and support the body's detoxification processes by assessing the micronutrient status.

CBC and CMP

A complete blood count (CBC) can detect changes in white blood cell and eosinophil levels associated with heavy metal toxicity, as heavy metal accumulation can affect the immune response. A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) offers insights into the functioning of the kidneys and liver, essential organs for detoxification serving as an indicator for damage caused by heavy metals. These tests enable healthcare professionals to assess the impact of heavy metal exposure on the body's vital systems and guide appropriate interventions for optimal health.

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Nutrition for Heavy Metal Detox

The primary principle of nutrition and heavy metal toxicity is to avoid exacerbating the issue. This approach involves minimizing or eliminating the consumption of seafood containing mercury and refraining from using aluminum cookware, especially when cooking acidic foods. It is essential to be cautious of foods prone to heavy metal contamination, such as certain supplements, chocolate, and certain greens (non-organic spinach), ensuring they are sourced from non-contaminated areas. Testing and avoiding high heavy metal levels in drinking water is also recommended.

Furthermore, a whole food, plant-rich diet high in micronutrients protects against the effects of heavy metals and serves as a solid nutritional foundation for healing. Including ample leafy greens (which aid arsenic metabolism) and colorful fruits and vegetables, abundant in antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, glutathione, carotenoids, and flavonoids, help shield tissues from the damaging effects of toxic metals and may assist in chelating metal ions. A whole food, plant-rich diet naturally includes high-fiber foods, but incorporating soluble fibers, chia seeds, or flax seeds can provide additional benefits in heavy metal detoxification. Protein intake should also be considered due to the increased amino acid requirements by adding clean, organic animal-based proteins.

Chelation Therapy for Heavy Metal Detox

Chelation therapy is a treatment that removes heavy metal accumulation in the body, causing harmful effects. Chelating agents such as DMSA, DMPS, or Ca-EDTA can bind to these toxic metal ions and be eliminated from the body.

In functional medicine, chelation therapy is often used to assess and address heavy metal toxicity. Urine metals testing is commonly utilized to evaluate the effects of chelation therapy. Chelation therapy typically consists of conducting pre-and post-chelation provocation urine tests. The pre-provocation test helps identify current exposures, while the post-provocation test detects the overall body burden, including metals stored in tissues. Post-provocation tests are typically performed at intervals 6 or 24 hours after administering the chelating agent.

By analyzing the relative levels of different metals in each test and considering the chelation agent used, healthcare providers can determine the most suitable chelation agent for effectively addressing heavy metal toxicity. It is critical to use chelation agents under the supervision of a qualified medical provider, in particular, an environmental medicine specialist, as there are risks involved with using these protocols.

Supplements and Herbs That Help Heavy Metal Detox

Functional medicine practitioners often recommend the following supplements and herbs when designing a heavy metal detox treatment plan for patients:

Glutathione

This antioxidant can reduce the impact of ROS formed as a byproduct of heavy metals in the body. Oral glutathione supplementation can be taken in doses of up to 500 mg per day for up to 2 months.

Chlorella

Chlorella stigmatophora is a type of algae, sometimes called seaweed, grown in controlled conditions and produces cell wall polysaccharides that bind toxic heavy metals.

Probiotics

Probiotics, such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, have beneficial characteristics for human health and can help eliminate heavy metals like aluminum, cadmium, lead, and arsenic from the body. Probiotics have been shown to bind to these metals and get eliminated through bowel movements.

Tulsi

Tulsi, an Ayurvedic herb, acts as an antioxidant and protects cells from damage caused by heavy metals and radiation. It can be consumed daily as a tea or in capsule form.

Modified Citrus Pectin (MCP)

15g of MCP (PectaSol) divided into three doses per day showed a significant decrease in lead levels in the blood. These findings suggest that MCP could be a safe and effective chelating agent for heavy metals, particularly in children with chronic environmental exposure.

Sauna Therapy For Heavy Metal Detox

Saunas can be a helpful therapy in heavy metal detox through sweating. Sweating has long been recognized as a safe and effective way to eliminate toxins. Studies show that sweat can contain higher concentrations of these toxic elements than plasma or urine. Sweating can match or exceed urinary excretion, making it a valuable detoxification pathway. For example, individuals with arsenic exposure excrete significantly more arsenic through their sweat than unexposed individuals. Cadmium is also found in higher concentrations in sweat than in blood plasma.

Additionally, a case report demonstrated that repeated sauna sessions normalized mercury levels. With these findings in mind, sweating through saunas can be considered an effective method for eliminating toxic elements from the body. Further research, including large-scale trials, is needed to establish safe and optimal protocols for therapeutic use.

Lifestyle Modifications For Heavy Metal Detox

Implementing lifestyle interventions to reduce heavy metal exposure usually involves avoiding or being aware of the exposures. Many everyday activities and occupations put us at risk. Start by examining potential occupational exposures. Metalworking, working with historic apple orchards, firefighters, dentists, mechanics, and those in the military or police force, are particularly susceptible to heavy metal exposure. Taking precautions, such as wearing protective gear, can minimize the risk.

Be mindful of everyday activities that can also lead to exposure. Mercury amalgam fillings, consumption of certain fish with high mercury levels, contaminated supplements, and unknowingly consuming food grown in metal-contaminated soil are all sources of exposure. Stay informed about your food sources and opt for clean, organic options whenever possible.

Be cautious about your water supply. Arsenic is often found in drinking water in the Western U.S., and some pipes still contain lead. Consider investing in water filters or exploring alternative water sources to ensure your water is safe for consumption.

Air quality matters too. Pollution from nearby industries and coal burning can release heavy metals into the air, including mercury. Take steps to reduce indoor and outdoor air pollution, such as using air purifiers and supporting clean energy initiatives. Being proactive and making informed choices can reduce heavy metal exposure and protect your well-being.

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Summary

Excessive heavy metal exposure and accumulation of these metals can cause cellular damage and cause symptoms such as poor stress response, chronic fatigue, brain fog, depression, anxiety, and digestive issues. They can also lead to autoimmune conditions. These heavy metals include arsenic, lead, aluminum, cadmium, and mercury. Analyzing heavy metal exposure utilizing functional medicine tests can help manage the symptoms related to overexposure. Whereas functional medicine approaches, such as nutritional interventions, chelation therapy, sauna therapy, and lifestyle modifications, can help reduce these metals from our bodies. By examining the aspects involved with heavy metal exposure, we can better comprehend the risks associated with these potentially toxic metals and devise strategies to mitigate their detrimental effects on both human health and the environment.