My Experience With Heavy Metal Detox- Pt.1
Recently, I decided to investigate something that isn’t often discussed but can profoundly affect our well-being: heavy metals.
Before I share my experience, I want to emphasize that this is not medical advice. It’s essential to do your research and work with a qualified health coach or functional medicine practitioner to uncover the root cause of your symptoms. Please do not attempt heavy metal detoxes on your own. I can’t stress enough how crucial this is!
I'm currently in week two of treatment, so if you're curious about the results, stay tuned for my next post.
My Journey
Over the last few months, there have been some unexplained symptoms I’ve been experiencing, not too severe, but I’ve been taking note of, such as brain fog, fatigue, and headaches. Since all my other tests have come back ok, heavy metals were the only missing piece of the puzzle.
What are Heavy Metals?
Heavy metals can accumulate in our bodies over time, often through environmental exposure, contaminated food, water, air, and even certain cosmetics. Some common heavy metals include:
Lead: Found in old paint, plumbing, and some imported goods.
Mercury: Often through fish consumption or dental amalgam fillings.
Arsenic: Found in contaminated water and some food products.
Cadmium: found in cigarette smoke, contaminated food, and industrial exposure.
Heavy metals are called “heavy” because their atomic weight is higher than most other elements. This means they are denser and can accumulate in the body over time.
Despite their name, not all "heavy metals" are technically metals in the strictest sense, but they share the common trait of being toxic to humans when they build up in the body and our tissues.
Though we may be regularly exposed to small amounts of heavy metals, excessive accumulation can lead to toxicity, manifesting as a range of symptoms, many of which mimic other health conditions.
Testing for Heavy Metals
There are several ways to test, such as urine, hair, or blood. I opted for a urine test. The urine test can help determine if the body has an overload of heavy metals like lead, mercury, arsenic, or cadmium. It assists the body in releasing stored metals through a process known as provoked urine testing. It is usually done after taking a chelating agent like DMPS (a medication that binds to metals) to help “pull” the metals out of storage.
This was an essential first step in determining the exact nature of the metals affecting my body. My results showed elevated levels of mercury and lead.
Tip:
I recommend consulting with your doctor before starting any treatment to discuss getting a heavy metal test. Your doctor can help you determine the best course of action. Usually, a functional doctor and naturopath are equipped with the knowledge and tests in their clinics.
The Impact of Heavy Metals on the Body
Heavy metals can wreak havoc on the body, affecting various systems:
Fatigue: When metals accumulate, they can disrupt cellular function, leading to tiredness and low energy.
Headaches: Many people, including myself, experience frequent headaches due to heavy metal exposure.
Nausea and Digestive Distress: Mercury can interfere with digestion and gut health.
Hormonal Imbalance: Heavy metals, especially lead and mercury, can disrupt hormone production, leading to problems like thyroid imbalances, irregular cycles, or unexplained weight gain.
When left unchecked, heavy metal toxicity can also impact the nervous system, kidneys, liver, and brain, contributing to brain fog and even cognitive decline.
Navigating Symptoms
I’m currently doing chelation therapy through IV, along with a few supplements to help my body remove heavy metals like chlorella and activated charcoal. I’m also taking caution to replenish minerals.
Chelation therapy is typically used for individuals with high toxic levels of metals, so if your levels are lower, you may be able to pursue a less intensive treatment plan than what I'm undergoing.
It’s not easy to feel detox symptoms. I had some nausea and fatigue, and it’s only been two weeks of treatment. However, on the bright side, I feel like my skin has been less reactive, I have more energy and less brain fog, and the dark circles under my eyes are lightening up.
In the next post, I will discuss treatment options, natural remedies, my results, and how I feel as I continue this journey.
Stay tuned!
