Definition:
Mercury is one of the most toxic metalsCeven more so than lead. Mercury can
be found in our soil, water, and food supply in the form of pesticides
and fungicides. Some grains and seeds are treated with methyl mercury
chlorine bleaches, which seep into the foods we eat. Mercury can
also be found in such everyday products like cosmetics, dental fillings,
fabric softeners, some inks used by printers, plastics, polishes,
latex, some paints, solvents, and wood preservatives. Mercury is
cumulative in its action, and its toxicity can occur slowly over
many years. Once in the body it interferes with the normal entry
of nutrients into the cells, and the removal of wastes from those
same cells. In can also bind onto cells from the immune system,
interfering with a normal immune response.
Symptoms:
Symptoms associated with mercury toxicity include behavioral changes,
depression, irritability and hyperactivity, continual allergic reactions,
muscle weakness, nerve degeneration, metallic taste in mouth, headache,
and in some case male or female infertility.
Holistic Treatment Plan:
Treating this disorder consists of removing the sources of mercury-while
at the same time detoxifying the body of this metal. Eating organic
foods, using non-toxic cosmetics and cleaning supplies is essential.
References:
Mindell, E., The MSM Miracle - Enhance Your Health with Organic Sulfur, Keats
Good Health Guide, New Cannan, CT: Keats Publishing, Inc., 1997; Deleve, L., and
Kaplowitz, N., Glutathione Metabolism and Its Role in Hepatoxicity; Packer, L.,
et al, Alpha-Lipoic Acid as a Biological Antioxidant, Free Radical Biology &
Medicine, 1995, 19:227-50.
Disclaimer:
All information given here is for educational purposes only. For a proper diagnosis and
treatment plan you must consult your health care practitioner.
