Aluminum’s safe, right? If something wasn’t safe for us, it wouldn’t be present in our food storage, our cooking materials, our water, and our food. By now, you know that it doesn’t work that way. Aluminum toxicity is a serious issue in today’s world, given how commonly it’s found in everything we consume and use. Protect your family with these tips.
What is Aluminum Toxicity?
Typically, aluminum occurs over a period of time, rather than happening as a result of one exposure to this metal. As the body is exposed to more and more aluminum, it accumulates in the body.
Though the body is typically very effective at flushing out toxins and heavy metals, even the healthiest body has its limits. Over the course of time, aluminum can build up in your bones, organs, and other body tissues.
Mount Sinai Hospital notes that aluminum toxicity is a serious problem. Early signs of aluminum poisoning may include muscle weakness, bone pain, seizures, confusion, and speech issues. If children suffer from aluminum poisoning, it may manifest in delayed growth and development.
Even more serious issues can be caused by aluminum, including brain disease, nervous system issues, anemia, and lung problems. A study carried out by Environmental Research shows that chick embryos that were exposed to aluminum developed abnormalities and defects.
Where Aluminum is Found
Aluminum is the most common metal found in Earth’s crust. However, Medscape notes that the body has no physiological need for aluminum. You may wonder, then, why it is found in so much of what we eat, touch, and breathe in.
Many medications include aluminum. If you take lots of aspirin, prescription medications, and multivitamins, you may be putting yourself at risk of aluminum poisoning.
In addition, you may be ingesting aluminum every time you eat. Much of the cookware people use is made out of aluminum. During the cooking and storage processes, the metal may leech into your food.
Excess aluminum exposure is common if you work in an area where aluminum is mined. If you live near or work in a mine, you may be breathing in aluminum. This is even more dangerous than consuming it or coming into contact with it via your skin.
Protecting Yourself from Aluminum Toxicity
Your body can handle aluminum in small amounts, so to some degree, your body does the work for you. However, it’s up to you to minimize your exposure to aluminum and avoid overloading your body.
When you purchase cookware and food storage items, choose items that do not have aluminum. If you use aluminum cookware, swap it out for cast iron options. Not only is it better for you, it can make your food taste even more delicious.
Whenever possible, avoid processed and packaged foods. Many manufacturers use aluminum as a food preservative. Cook fresh food, or even eat your veggies raw.
Aluminum poisoning is a growing risk in the United States. By limiting your exposure and making wise choices, you can protect yourself and your family.
http://www.drpepi.com/aluminum-poisoning.php
http://www.mountsinai.org/patient-care/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/aluminum-toxicity
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0013935181901250
http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/165315-overview
