Heavy metals are high-density chemical elements, most of which are toxic to humans and cannot be chemically or biologically degraded. For this reason, they accumulate in our bodies over the years, especially in organs with higher fat content. In this article, we’ll discuss how to get rid of heavy metals with an alkaline diet.
How to get rid of heavy metals with an alkaline diet
When Does Heavy Metal Poisoning Occur?
Heavy metals naturally originate on our planet, being present in all its components (lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere).
While natural processes like erosion and volcanic eruptions have been releasing metals into the environment for millennia, the real issue began with the Industrial Revolution.
The first large-scale heavy metal contamination arose from industrial activities, particularly mining, smelting, refining and the discharge of industrial wastewater.
As a direct result of this intensive exploitation, heavy metals are now widespread throughout the Earth’s crust, dispersed via soil, water and air. This means they are present in the air we breathe, the water we drink and the food we eat.
Heavy Metals and Health
The primary concern with heavy metals is their bioaccumulative nature, as they cannot degrade or decompose. This means living organisms tend to store these metals in their bodies since they cannot metabolize them.
To avoid the harmful effects of heavy metals, two main strategies are essential:
- Prevention: Eliminating all possible sources of contamination from our surroundings.
- Detoxification: Removing heavy metals through diet.
Prevention
Despite the natural origins of heavy metals, their concentration is now higher in certain overlooked sources. The first step in detoxifying heavy metals is to avoid these sources:
- Dental Amalgams
Dark dental fillings often contain mercury, which releases vapors when exposed to the heat of food and drinks. - Damaged Cookware
Choose high-quality, natural cookware, such as wooden utensils. If using metal cookware, ensure it is in good condition. - Medications
Some medications contain metals like aluminum. - Excessive Consumption of Large Fish
Large fish like tuna and salmon, as top predators in the marine food chain, contain higher levels of heavy metals than smaller fish. - Lead Pipes
Water traveling through lead pipes can carry heavy metals and other toxins into our homes. - Cosmetics and Hygiene Products
The skin, through its pores, can absorb substances it comes into contact with. Avoid non-organic hygiene and cosmetic products that often contain metals like lead, arsenic, cadmium, or nickel. - Food Additives
Many processed, packaged, and refined foods contain metals as additives. For example, some brands of refined salt include aluminum to prevent clumping. - Thermometers and Light Bulbs
Broken mercury thermometers or compact fluorescent bulbs can expose you to heavy metals. Always handle these items with care, using gloves if they break.
Detoxification
How to Remove Heavy Metals Through Diet
Nutrition plays a vital role in gradually and effectively eliminating heavy metals accumulated in the body. Certain foods can help detoxify and remove heavy metals over time.
Foods Rich in Chlorophyll
Chlorophyll helps mobilize heavy metals in bodily fluids, allowing its elimination primarily through stool.
The richest sources of chlorophyll are chlorella algae and leafy green vegetables.
According to Dr. Mark McClure, a daily dose of 3 grams of chlorella promotes the removal of heavy metals. He also recommends combining it with cilantro to enhance its effect.
Liquid chlorophyll can also complement your diet, easily added to water with a mild taste.
Foods Rich in Sulfur
Sulfur-rich foods aid in eliminating heavy metals. Examples include cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, cauliflower, radishes, broccoli) as well as onions and garlic.
Foods with Selenium
Selenium is a trace element that combats metal toxicity. While it’s advisable to avoid over-consuming animal sources of selenium (as they are acidic), plant-based sources are excellent. These include Brazil nuts, pumpkin seeds, nettle leaves, garlic and cucumber.
Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal has the unique ability to absorb toxic substances, making it commonly used in hospitals for stomach cleansing. It has also been traditionally used for water purification.
Today, activated charcoal is available as a dietary supplement, promoting, among other benefits, the elimination of heavy metals.
By incorporating these preventive and dietary strategies, you can support your body’s detoxification process and reduce the harmful effects of heavy metals, contributing to better overall health and well-being.
