Heavy metals are naturally occurring elements that have become increasingly prevalent in our environment due to industrial activity. Understanding exposure sources can help you make informed health decisions.
Common Heavy Metal Exposure Sources
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), common sources of heavy metal exposure include:
- Lead - Old paint, contaminated soil, some imported goods
- Mercury - Certain fish, old thermometers, dental amalgams
- Arsenic - Some well water, rice, treated wood
- Cadmium - Cigarette smoke, certain foods, industrial exposure
How the Body Handles Heavy Metals
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), a division of the CDC, provides detailed toxicological profiles explaining how different heavy metals are absorbed, distributed, and eliminated by the body.
Reducing Your Exposure
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends several strategies to reduce heavy metal exposure:
- Eat a varied diet to avoid overexposure from any single food
- Follow fish consumption guidelines
- Test older homes for lead paint
- Use water filters certified to reduce contaminants
Supporting Your Body's Natural Processes
Research published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health (NIH) suggests that sweating may help eliminate certain toxic elements. The study analyzed sweat, blood, and urine to compare excretion pathways.
While more research is needed, supporting your body's natural elimination processes through adequate hydration, nutrition, and regular activity is generally beneficial. View our wellness products designed to support your self-care routine.