It has become very clear that avoiding heavy metals is not a simple process. These are now found at significant levels in some organic products, and are hiding in places we probably haven't considered yet.

Where and how do you get heavy metal poisoning?

Unfortunately, the entry points of heavy metals into our bodies are very much influenced by our lifestyle, and in some cases, are an integral part of human physiology. This fact makes it especially important to avoid obvious sources of heavy metals to keep exposure as low as possible in order to maintain good health.

The big culprits are:

• Seafood (i.e. salmon, lobster)
• Mercury from dental amalgams
• Personal care products (i.e. deodorants, make-up)
• Rice protein products from China
• Pots, pans and soda cans (nickel lined or aluminum)
• Vaccinations
• Living in a home built before 1978 that may have lead-based paint
• Smoking or second-hand smoke inhalation
• Environmental factors such as workplaces and chemtrails

With a low dose of heavy metal exposure during pregnancy, plus early childhood immunization schedules, and mercury being the primary element for dental fillings, it becomes very difficult to avoid heavy metal toxicity even during the early years of life.

Signs of heavy metal toxicity

Although the signs may seem different and numerous, it is a good idea to consider heavy metal toxicity, especially if one has had significant exposure to one or more of the causes of exposure listed above.

Some signs may relate to heavy metal toxicity

• Chronic pain in the muscles and tissues of the body
• Chronic discomfort, fatigue and illness
• Foggy, confused and dazed brain
• Intestinal infection with chronic candidiasis
• Gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, constipation, bloating, gas, heartburn and indigestion
• Food allergies
• Dizziness
• Headaches and migraines
• Mood swings, depression and anxiety
• Nervous system problems such as numbness, tingling and paralysis
• Skin problems
• Sensitive teeth
• Insomnia

Heavy metal toxicity can also cause common conditions such as autism, chronic fatigue syndrome and multiple sclerosis. Blood tests, hair and/or urine tests or a new Oligoscan test can also be done.

Removal of heavy metals

Once the toxicity of heavy metals is made, it is important to understand that the detoxification process, and appropriate medical advice must be put in place. However, it is best to do this slowly, and consider eating the following foods for safe elimination:

• Coriander
• Chlorella
• Parsley
• Green cabbage
• Broccoli
• Onions
• Garlic
• Bentonite clay
• Fermented foods
• Foods rich in zinc, selenium and vitamin C
• Purified water
• Eventually food supplements such as Metout

A recent study showed that modified citrus pectin promotes the urinary excretion of heavy metals, such as mercury, arsenic, cadmium, lead and tin without affecting the excretion of other minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, iron, copper and selenium.

Also be sure to support the liver and kidneys during the heavy metal elimination process. Also consider chelation therapy and infrared sauna treatments.