Search
Close this search box.
Search
Close this search box.

How Toxic Are You? Answers for Heavy Metal Toxicity

Reviewed by Kimberly Cabe, FNP-BC of Forum Health Clarkston

 

Throughout your life, you’ll come into constant contact with environmental toxins. Overtime, this exposure can lead to health concerns in many areas.  

 

Environmental toxins are poisonous substances that come from outside the body and are lumped into two categories: harmful chemicals and heavy metals.  Chronic disease begins with a gene-environment mismatch; our environment has changed so much that we are now dealing with many chemicals in our food chain, over consumption of sugar, rising rates of obesity, fast food and processed food and we now have an alarming rate of increasing air pollution. 

 

The Center of Disease 4th national report on human exposure to environmental chemicals tested 212 chemicals and all were found in the blood and urine of most Americans. 

The question is no longer are you toxic? The question is “how toxic are you?”

Toxic burden is the accumulation of toxins over time.  These toxins come from a variety of sources but the initial exposure starts while a baby is in the womb!   

 

According to the Environmental Working Group study, 287 chemicals were found in the umbilical cord blood of newborns, consisting of pesticides, consumer product ingredients, and waste materials from burning coal, gasoline and garbage.    

 

Alarming facts about the chemicals found in newborn babies:  

 

  • 180 of the 287 are known to cause cancer in humans and animals  
  • 217 are toxic to the brain and central nervous system 
  • 208 were shown to cause birth defects and abnormal development in animals 

How do you know if the toxins you have been exposed to are causing you a health issue?

Common symptoms of toxic burden include: 

  • Chronic Fatigue 
  • Depression 
  • Headaches 
  • Cognitive problems like brain fog or memory problems 
  • Neurological issues like balance or tremors 
  • Insomnia 

Common conditions associated with toxic burden are: 

  • Attention deficit disorder 
  • Allergies, asthma and chemical sensitivities 
  • Diabetes and obesity 
  • Fibromyalgia and other autoimmune diseases 
  • Fertility issues and birth defects 
  • Parkinson’s disease 
  • Chronic infections and bone marrow cancers 

Latest Research: Where are Toxins Showing Up?

Based on analysis in NHANES report, there is a strong relationship between urine concentrations of biphenyl A (plastics) and incidence of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and liver-enzyme abnormalities in samples of the adult population (JAMA 2008; 300: 1353-54). 

 

The US Environmental Agency has several studies posted on our water supply including arsenic and mercury levels, fish consumption advisories, and a complete list of contaminants and hazards that impact our overall health. 

 

With the rise of toxin burden since the early 1970s we have also seen a significant rise in autism, acute lymphatic leukemia, brain cancer, premature birth, infertility and childhood asthma. 

 

Understanding how to navigate an environment full of toxins can be overwhelming. The good news is you don’t have to do it alone. Our expert providers and health coaches are well versed in the latest detox protocols and can guide you on detoxing safely and effectively and provide resources to reduce your toxin burden in the long term. 

What Can You Do to Reduce Your Toxin Burden and Detox Naturally?

Working with a provider and health coach to detox your body and environment for long term health will ensure you are taking appropriate steps without feeling overwhelmed. Together, you’ll start with looking at your environment to reduce your risk of exposure.   

 

A great first step is to swap chemicals and personal care products in the home for natural alternatives. Buy more organic produce, dairy and meats, and avoid the use of plastic containers, remember to never microwave in plastic. 

 

Additionally, your Forum Health providers will guide you through everyday steps to adopt low-tox living including a nutrition plan and specialized treatments.  

 

It is recommended to detox under the guidance of a nutritionist or other health professional, to prevent complications and adverse effects.  

Advanced Testing: Measure Your Levels of Heavy Metals

If you’re suffering from one or more of the above symptoms, you may have a high heavy metal toxin burden.  

 

Heavy metal testing plays a vital role in unveiling unhealthy exposure. Forum Health offers a heavy metals panel that includes analysis for lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium as well as an advanced diagnostic test that analyzes: 

  • Copper 
  • Zinc 
  • Chromium 
  • Thallium 
  • Aluminum 
  • Beryllium 
  • Cobalt 
  • Iron 
  • Bismuth 
  • Manganese 
  • Nickel 
  • Silver 
  • Selenium 
  • Silicon 
  • Platinum 

For each toxic metal within the panel, the test provides precise measurements of your concentrations in the test sample to ensure targeted and personalized treatment. Learn More About Heavy Metal Testing 

Don’t let heavy metal toxicity silently compromise your health. Take control of your well-being with Forum Health’s heavy metal toxicity testing today. 

Suspect you have heavy metal toxicity?

Schedule a call with our health advisor today.

References: 

Environmental working group 

US Environmental Agency 

Center of Disease Control 

JAMA 2008 

Dr Josh Axe 

Share:

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn