Aluminum toxicity occurs when a person has a high level of aluminum in their bodies to the point that is effecting the proper functioning of their body. They may get this build up from breathing it in or from ingesting small amounts. Since aluminum is found in most types of cookware, people are being exposed to it more than they might realize. Aluminum is not a heavy metal but is considered toxic as although we are technically exposed to it all of the time because it is in the earth, when people are in too much contact with it and the body doesn’t detoxify it from the system, there can be a dangerous build up.
Ingesting aluminum through various cooking utensils is only one way that a person may ingest it. Taking too many antacids may also cause a large build up because the main ingredient in many of these is aluminum hydroxide. Women who use douches may be at risk as some contain aluminum as do various body powders. This substance can be added to baking soda and water and other items also.
There are many consequences of having aluminum toxicity especially if it goes to the brain. First, the kidneys may lose their function and various other organs may start to lose their functioning. There may be a softening of the bones which leads to a condition that is quite similar to osteoporosis. When this substance gets to the brain it can cause loss of memory, difficulty with speech, a reduction of mental alertness, and other problems such as those that are similar to Alzheimer’s disease.
The symptoms that coincide with aluminum toxicity include forgetfulness, seizures, headaches, anemia, decreased liver and kidney function, speech disturbances, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and loss of balance. The longer this goes without treatment, the worse the symptoms get.
For those with aluminum toxicity, there are ways to lower the amount built up in the body. A person should be tested first before they start a routine and this should be under the care of a medical professional. Certain supplements can be taken to reduce the aluminum such as the chelate form of calcium with magnesium. Garlic, kelp, lecithin, multivitamins, and various types of B vitamins should be taken as well a t the recommended dose to eliminate this substance from the body. Fiber and apple pectin should be added to the diet also.
To avoid a reoccurrence, stop using utensils, pots, pans and other things with aluminum in them and instead use glassware, and other items without high aluminum content. To reduce the amount of aluminum that one takes in, there are various types of food that should either only be eaten in moderation or avoided altogether. Of course, not all of these foods contain aluminum but it is recommended that a person check the ingredients first. These foods include processed cheese, grated cheese, pickles, relishes, water, baking soda, table salt, bleached flour, beer and canned products. Other items that may contain high levels of aluminum are toothpaste, antiperspirants, and deodorants.
