Although it can be found in our food storage, our cooking materials, our water, and our food, aluminum is not safe.
Aluminum toxicity presents a serious issue in today’s world, especially since it is commonly found in everything we consume and use. Here are some tips to help you protect your family.
What is Aluminum Toxicity?
Aluminum toxicity doesn’t happen if a person is exposed to it only once. It occurs over a period of time, when the body is exposed to more and more aluminum, and it accumulates in the body.
The body is usually very effective at flushing out toxins and heavy metals, but even the healthiest body has its limits. After a period of exposure, aluminum can build up in the bones, organs, and other body tissues.
Mount Sinai Hospital notes that aluminum toxicity represents a serious problem. The early signs of aluminum poisoning can include muscle weakness, bone pain, confusion, seizures, and speech issues. Aluminum poisoning in children may cause delayed growth and development.
Aluminum may cause even more serious issues, such as brain disease, nervous system issues, anemia, and lung problems. The Environmental Research conducted a study that showed that chick embryos that were exposed to aluminum developed abnormalities and defects.
Where Aluminum is Found
Aluminum is the most common metal found in the Earth’s crust. However, Medscape says that the body has no physiological need for aluminum. Then why is it present in many foods, objects, and even in the air?
Many medications include aluminum. A large amount of aspirin, prescription medications, and multivitamins may put you at risk of aluminum poisoning.
You may also be ingesting aluminum every time you eat. Much of the cookware used by people is made from aluminum, and the metal can seep into the food during cooking.
An area where aluminum is mined puts people at excess aluminum exposure. Or if you live near or work in a mine, you may be breathing in aluminum. Breathing it in is even more dangerous than consuming it or coming into contact with it via your skin.
Protecting Yourself From Aluminum Toxicity
The body can handle aluminum in small amounts, and it will protect you to some degree. However, it’s up to you to make some changes in order to minimize your exposure to aluminum and avoid overloading your body.
Next time you buy cookware and food storage items, choose items that do not contain aluminum. Swap your aluminum cookware for cast iron options. It is better for you and can make your food taste even more delicious.
Try avoiding processed and packaged foods whenever possible. Many manufacturers use aluminum as a food preservative. So, you can cook fresh food, or even eat raw vegetables.
Aluminum poisoning is a growing risk in the United States. Make wise choices and limit your aluminum exposure to protect yourself and your family.
