Heavy Metal Toxicity: Effects on Mental and Physical Health and How to Detox

For years, unbeknownst to me - I had high levels of mercury and arsenic. When I first heard “arsenic” I had a flashback to the horrifying novel Flowers in The Attic where a mother slowly poisons her children with arsenic. How did this happen to me?! Was it all that sushi and canned tuna I ate over the years? I still have no idea what caused it, but I can tell you that my life is exponentially better as a result of detoxing from heavy metals under the guidance of my doctor.

Heavy metals are a group of toxic substances that can cause serious damage to the human body. These metals, including lead, mercury, and cadmium, are found in everyday items such as batteries, cosmetics, and even food. Over time, exposure to heavy metals can lead to heavy metal toxicity, which can have serious negative effects on mental and physical health.

Negative Mental Health Effects of Heavy Metal Toxicity:

Heavy metal toxicity has been linked to several mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Exposure to heavy metals can also affect memory and cognitive function, leading to confusion and difficulty concentrating. (Source)

Negative Physical Health Effects of Heavy Metal Toxicity:

In addition to its effects on mental health, heavy metal toxicity can also have severe physical health consequences. Impaired mitochondrial function.  Negative effects on thyroid health. This includes damage to the kidneys, liver, and other internal organs. Heavy metal toxicity can also cause anemia, fatigue, and muscle weakness, as well as digestive problems and immune system dysfunction. (Source)

Sources of Heavy Metal Toxicity:

There are many sources of heavy metal toxicity, including:

• Cosmetics and personal care products containing lead and other heavy metals
• Food, particularly seafood and processed foods
• Drinking water contaminated with heavy metals
• Exposure to heavy metal-containing products in the workplace, such as batteries and electronics

Basic Tips to Deter Heavy Metal Toxicity:

• Reduce your exposure to heavy metals by avoiding processed foods and using natural, organic products whenever possible
• Drink plenty of water to help flush toxins from your body
• Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants and nutrients, such as leafy greens and berries, into your diet
• Consider taking supplements such as chlorella, cilantro, and selenium, which have been shown to aid in the detoxification of heavy metals
• Regular use of an infrared sauna

HEAVY METAL DETOX OPTIONS:

IV Chelation

For people with serious toxic overload, sometimes IV chelation is necessary. IV (intravenous) chelation therapy is another form of chelation therapy that is used to remove heavy metals from the body. It involves the injection of a chelating agent, such as EDTA (ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid), into the bloodstream through an IV. During IV chelation therapy, the chelating agent binds to heavy metals in the bloodstream and removes them from the body through the kidneys. EDTA is particularly effective at removing calcium deposits from the arteries, which can improve blood flow and reduce the risk of heart disease. IV chelation therapy is typically used in cases of heavy metal toxicity, but it is also used as an alternative therapy for atherosclerosis, a condition in which plaque builds up inside the arteries. It is important to note that IV chelation therapy can have side effects, including allergic reactions and a drop in blood pressure, and should only be administered by a healthcare professional trained in environmental medicine or functional medicine.

DMSA Chelation Pills

DMSA (dimercaptosuccinic acid) is a chelating agent that is used to remove heavy metals from the body. It is available in oral form as DMSA chelation pills. The chelating process involves binding the heavy metals in the body to the DMSA molecule, which is then excreted from the body through urine. DMSA is particularly effective at removing lead and mercury from the body, both of which can accumulate in the body and cause toxicity. These heavy metals can be ingested through contaminated food or water, or exposure to lead paint, certain types of cosmetics, and other sources. DMSA chelation pills are commonly used in cases of heavy metal toxicity and can be prescribed by a healthcare professional trained in environmental medicine. It is important to note that DMSA chelation therapy should only be used under medical supervision, as it can have side effects and may not be appropriate for everyone.

Modified Citrus Pectin + Sodium Alginate

Modified citrus pectin and sodium alginate are two natural compounds that are often used in combination for heavy metal detoxification. Modified citrus pectin is a form of pectin that has been modified to make it more easily absorbed by the body. Pectin is a type of soluble fiber found in fruits and vegetables, and modified citrus pectin is derived from the pith of citrus fruits. It is believed to work by binding to heavy metals in the body and promoting their excretion through urine and feces. Sodium alginate, on the other hand, is a compound derived from brown seaweed. It is a type of polysaccharide that is used as a food thickener and emulsifier. Like modified citrus pectin, sodium alginate is believed to work by binding to heavy metals in the body and promoting their excretion through urine and feces. When used in combination, modified citrus pectin and sodium alginate are thought to have a synergistic effect, enhancing their ability to remove heavy metals from the body. They are often taken orally in supplement form. I used a product called PectaClear.

My doctor ordered a Genova Diagnostics urine test for him to diagnose the issue. Within 5 months of taking PectaClear and doing sauna sessions, my levels of arsenic dropped down to zero and my mercury dropped from 30 down to 10. I kept detoxing from there. In hindsight, I really wish I had taken this test sooner. 

If you have unresolved health issues (including thyroid issues) and have not found relief down multiple healing avenues - look into whether or not heavy metals might be messing with your brain and your life.

About the author:  Elle Russ is a #1 bestselling author, world-renowned thyroid health expert, and master coach.