6 Ways to Naturally Detox from Heavy Metals
Have you heard of heavy metal toxicity? Here’s a quick breakdown.
Although our bodies naturally detox on their own, there are dozens of toxins and chemicals introduced to our systems every year that make it much more difficult for our bodies to do their job and expunge. From environmental impacts like air pollution to the ingredients in cleaning products to the toxic agents in the water we drink, we have been exposed to heavy metal toxins more than we realize. One of the most common ways we take in heavy metals is through the foods we eat. Even on the most organic of produce, pesticides and herbicides are used generously throughout agriculture and ultimately, we consume heavy metals without even realizing.
Toxic heavy metals like aluminum, mercury, copper, nickel, lead, cadmium and arsenic stay buried within our bodies and bones, and while the load of their toxicity is high and common, it’s actually rare that we are diagnosed properly with heavy metal poisoning.
Because heavy metals can oxidize, they cause damage and inflammation to the brain, liver, nervous and digestive systems. Additionally, toxic heavy metals impact the immune system which can leave us exposed and susceptible to a variety of illnesses.
You might be wondering, how can I tell if I have large amounts of heavy metals in my body? Let’s dive in.
Mild symptoms of heavy metal toxicity include:
headaches
fatigue
abdominal pain and cramps
nausea
vomiting
diarrhea
Severe symptoms of heavy metal toxicity include:
chronic infections
insomnia
paralysis
heart palpitations
brain fog
burning or tingling sensations
6 Ways to Naturally Detox Heavy Metals
#1. Zeolite
The term zeolite originates from the Greek words ‘zeo’ (to boil), and ‘litos’ (stone). When ash and lava from volcanoes chemically react with saltwater, the result is a silica-based volcanic ash known as zeolite. This negatively charged mineral acts like a magnet to positively charged toxins and heavy metals. While there are several health benefits to using zeolite such as the fact that it removes heavy metals without stripping away any beneficial nutrients, it’s also 100% natural and safe to use on kiddos too.
#2. Heavy Metal Support, Thorne
We love a good supplement that targets heavy metals. Heavy Metal Support by Thorne helps maintain the normal balance of minerals in the body and replenish any magnesium that may get sifted through the detoxification process.
#3. Chlorella
This algae is a binding agent that draws out heavy metals from the body. Like Zeolite, this detoxification method attaches itself to toxins and clears them from your system. You can find our favorite Chlorella treatment here.
#4. Cilantro
This herb dives deep into the body to source metals that may have been stored for years. One cup of cilantro blended in a smoothie or tossed in a salad can boost your detox exponentially.
#5. Atlantic Dulse
An edible seaweed and another fantastic binder, atlantic dulse attach to lead, aluminum, cadmium, nickel, copper and mercury, guiding them all the way through the colon so that they’re eliminated and officially out of the system.
#6. Liver Tonic by Dragon Herbs
Finally, we highly recommend tending to the liver so that when you’re detoxing, the pathway is open and the liver is optimized. One of our favorite Chinese herbs for liver support is Liver Tonic by Dragon Herbs. It contains adaptogenics like schizandra, reishi, goji berry and resveratrol. With this formulation, the liver, kidney and heart are all nurtured and supported throughout your detoxification.
At the end of the day, it's not easy to avoid every single heavy metal and toxin in our world as it exists. The best way to protect yourself from heavy metal toxicity is to be aware of what it is, what the symptoms are and to actively advocate for your health so that you can live your best, healthiest life. The good news? Your body wants you to thrive and everyday it’s doing everything it can to heal you. All you really need to do is give your body the right resources and tools so that it can begin the healing process. The even better news? All these resources and tools are at our fingertips and easily accessible.
To dive deeper into your health, we recommend a visit with our resident Naturopath. Through telemedicine or in house, Dr. Wills visits include a comprehensive health evaluation, pertinent physical exams, an individualized treatment plan that will incorporate a variety of natural therapies, nutritional and herbal recommendations and advanced laboratory testing orders. You can book a session with her here.