Metals in our mouth

The Metal In Your Mouth

by Dr K. Hajikakou Bsc BDS LDS RCS(Eng) DIHom LFHom (Dent) Dip Clin Hypnosis PGCE

Dr Hajikakou runs a homeopathic amalgam free practice at Rye, East Sussex.

http://freespace.virgin.net/ahcare.qua/lit...talinmouth.html

Introduction

This article looks at the effects of dental materials on the health of the individual. There are many dental materials in use to restore broken teeth. The main criteria considered by the dental materials experts have been their physical characteristics, e.g. coefficients of expansion and contraction, compressive and shear strengths. Little, if any, thought has been given to the biological effects of these materials. In particular it now appears that metals used to restore teeth can have profound effects on the physical, mental and spiritual health of patients. Present day non-metal or white filling materials, i.e. composites and porcelains appear, at present, to be safer alternatives. The main emphasis of the-is article will be on amalgam but some discussion will also be given to the metals used in crowns (caps).

Broadening the field of dental toxicity would include some things that I cannot go into here, such as dental hygiene products, e.g. toothpaste, antiseptic mouthwashes, impression materials, rubber products and acrylate resins used in dentures and root canal medications. The effects of ionising radiation from dental x-ray machines could also be included, not to mention fluoride, which calcifies the pineal gland, accumulates in the pituitary and has a marked hypothyroid action! It is no wonder that Professor Vimy (Professor of Oral Medicine, Calgary University, Canada), referring to the dental profession, said "Never has so much harm been done to so many by so few" (Vimy, 2000).

Metals used in crowns (caps)

Gold is becoming more popular with many dentists in this country. Dental gold is an alloy made of gold, silver, copper, palladium, platinum and zinc. The following metals are to be found in dental casting alloys used to make crowns and bridges: beryllium, cobalt, cadmium, gallium, nickel, rhodium, iridium and indium. Unfortunately, these alloys release metal ions into the body. Is there any evidence that metal ions can cause harm? According to Professor John Wataha (Professor of Oral Rehabilitation at the Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, USA), the answer is a resounding yes. In sufficient concentrations and in certain forms metal ions can kill tissues, cause allergies, inflammatory reactions and cancer (Wataha, 1999).

Swelling and irritation with redness and pain in the region of a metal crown could well signify an allergic reaction to one or more of the metals. Dermatitis having a perioral distribution (around the mouth) is also suggestive of allergy originating from a dental source. Palladium and nickel are highly allergenic metals.

Amalgam fillings

Before considering the effects of mercury, let us look at the electrical activity of amalgam fillings. Each filling acts like a battery (Certosimo, 1996). As the filling is an alloy and is bathed by an electrolyte, i.e. saliva, a potential difference arises leading to electrical currents being generated. These currents are of an order of magnitude 1,000 times greater than those generated by nerve cells. This can lead to the impairment of nerve functioning and neurotransmitter release (Sheppard, 1997). The proximity of the brain to oral amalgam fillings can, in some patients, lead to neurological problems such as "brain fog" (the inability to think clearly, and depression). From my clinical experience patients have reported being"clear-headed", as if a fog has lifted, after having had their amalgam fillings removed. This effect is experienced rapidly, whereas mercury toxicity effects take longer to resolve.

The safe protocol to adopt for the removal of amalgam fillings and corresponding homeopathic and nutritional support is shown below.

When is a poison not a poison?

The answer to this riddle is, of course, when it is in your mouth! Amalgam (a mixture of mercury with another metal) or "silver" fillings contain silver, copper, tin, zinc and mercury. Amalgam fillings are made up of 50% mercury and should be known as mercury fillings, not silver fillings.

It is ironic that waste amalgam (i.e. outside the body) must be stored in secure conditions owing to the release of mercury vapour and has to be disposed of by licensed disposal companies. However, when it is placed in people's teeth it "miraculously" transforms itself into a complete inert material, which is perfectly safe! At least that is the official line. "It is generally agreed that if amalgam was introduced today as a restorative material, it would never pass FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approval" (Wolfe et al, 1983). The case against using amalgam is, in my opinion, overwhelming.

Amalgam some facts

When I was studying dentistry I was told that mercury was "locked into" the filling and, therefore, was not released. This is totally untrue (Jones et al, 1983). Mercury vapour is released during the entire life of the filling. As mercury vapour is colourless, odourless and tasteless it escapes undetected by the recipient of that filling. More vapour is released each time your chew, drink anything hot or brush your teeth. The more fillings you have, the larger the surface area of the fillings the more vapour you will be exposed to, and the greater the health risk. The vapour is rapidly absorbed via the lungs and nasal mucosa and accumulates in areas of high metabolic activity, e.g. brain, gut, kidneys, liver and heart. The toxicity of mercury is well documented: it is more toxic than lead and arsenic combined. The toxic threshold, i.e. the level below which it is considered safe has never been established. The World Health Organisation states "No level of exposure to mercury can be considered harmless". WHO also states that dental amalgam is the single largest source of mercury exposure for the public, contributing upto 84% of daily intake:
• mercury from fillings (average of 8) 17 mcg/day
• mercury from all other sources: seafood, air and water 2-6 mcg/day (WHO, 1991)

Autopsy studies confirm that the brain is the critical target organ for mercury. Brain tissue mercury levels are far higher in patients with amalgam fillings than in the patients having no fillings present. Professor Boyd Haley (Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Kentucky, USA) has demonstrated the effects mercury has on brain biochemistry. Structures known as microtubules found in nerve cells,w which are essential for transportation of substances along the nerve are greatly affected by the presence of mercury. This may be a key contributory factor in Alzheimer's disease. Haley has also demonstrated hat in the presence of cadmium, another widely present pollutant, mercury toxicity is greatly increased. Mercury is found in structures associated with memory, e.g. the hippocampus, amygdala and nucleus basalis.

Experiments in sheep and monkeys clearly show that when mercury fillings are place, the mercury deposits in the brain, kidneys and liver. Kidney function determined by albumin excretion (albumin is a normal blood protein) is greatly reduced in those animals receiving amalgam fillings (Vimy et al, 1990). Another worrying fact is that mercury crosses over the placenta into the foetus within two days of amalgam placement, accumulating in the fetal brain and liver (Vimy et al, 1990). Breast milk has also been found to contain significant levels of mercury.

Oral and gut bacteria can metabolise inorganic mercury to organic mercury, e.g. methyl mercury, another powerful toxin. And if this is not bad enough the presence of mercury has been shown to increase the resistance of oral and gut bacteria to antibiotics within two weeks of amalgam placement (Summers et al, 1993). Ampicillin, tetracyclin, streptomycin, erythromycin, kanamycin and chloramphenicol are all antibiotics whose effects are greatly reduced in the presence of mercury.

Oral lichen planus, a condition where the oral mucosa changes to form white patches with a lacy pattern has now a well-established link with mercury containing amalgam fillings. This is seen in those individuals who have sensitivity to mercury and where amalgam filling is in direct contact with the oral tissue. Is this a hazard to health professionals who deal with amalgam fillings?

Dentists have four times more mercury in the urine compared with the rest of the population and a suicide rate two to six times greater than average. Is this due to a stressful job or is it, perhaps, mercury related? I feel it is the latter. Female dental personnel have twice the rate of infertility, miscarriage and spontaneous abortion compared to the rest of the female population.

Symptoms of mercury toxicity

Acute
metallic taste - due to electrical activity and corrosion
burning pains - mouth, throat and stomach
increased salivation
swollen salivatory glands
abdominal pains
diarrhoea and vomiting

Chronic
Nervous system
irritability
anxiety/nervousness, often with difficulty in breathing
restlessness
exaggerated response to stimulation
fearfulness
lack of self-control
fits of anger, with violent irrational behaviour
loss of self-confidence
indecision
shyness or timidity, being easily embarrassed
loss of memory
inability to concentrate
lethargy/drowsiness
insomnia
mental depression, despondency
withdrawal
suicidal tendencies
manic depression
numbness and tingling of the hands, feet, fingers, toes and lips
muscle weakness progressing to paralysis
ataxia
tremors/trembling of hands, feet, lips, eyelids or tongue
incoordination
myoneural transmission failure resembling myasthenia gravis
motor neurone disease
multiple sclerosis

Oral disorders
bleeding gums
alveolar bone loss
loosening of teeth
excessive salivation
foul breath
metallic taste
burning sensation, with tingling of lips and face
tissue pigmentation (amalgam tattoo of gums)
leukoplakia
ulceration of gingiva, palate and tongue

Gastro-intestinal
food sensitivities, especially to milk and eggs
abdominal cramps, colitis, diverticulitis or other GI complaints
chronic diarrhoea/constipation

Systemic effects
chronic headaches
allergies
severe dermatitis
unexplained reactivity
thyroid disturbance
subnormal body temperature
cold, clammy skin, especially hands and feet
excessive perspiration, with frequent night sweats
unexplained sensory symptoms, including pain
unexplained numbness or burning sensations

The earliest symptoms of long-term, low-level mercury poisoning are extremely subtle and easily misdiagnosed. Certain idiosyncrasies may develop or subtle psychiatric, neurological problems may begin to show. Mercury from dental amalgam does, in my opinion, constitute a significant health hazard. Controlled scientific studies looking at the effects on the health of patients of mercury from dental amalgam fillings have never been conducted. The scientific experts say that there is no evidence to show that mercury from amalgam does any harm. Does this, therefore, mean it is safe? I think not. Bertand Russell, the philosopher, once said "Even when all the experts agree, they may well be wrong".



References
Certosimo, A.J. and O'Connor, R.P. (1996) "Oral electricity", General Dentistry, July/August: 324-326
Conference of IAOMT (International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology) Oxford, June, 2000
Hansen, K. et al (1984) "A survey of metal induced mutagen in vitro and in vivo", Journal American Coll. Toxicology, 3: 381-430
Jones, D.W. et al (1983) "Mercury leaves dental amalgam continuously throughout the lifetime of the filling", Canadian Dental Association Journal, 4906: 378-395
Sheppard, A.R. and Eisentod, M. (1997) Biological Effects of Electric and Magnetic Fields in Extremely Low Frequency, New York: New York University Press
Summers, A.O. et al (1993) "Mercury released from dental "silver" fillings provokes an increase in mercury and antibiotic resistant bacteria in oral and intestinal floras of primates", Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, April: 301-323
Vimy, M.J. et al (1990) "Maternal fetal distribution of mercury released from dental amalgam fillings", The American Physiological Society, R939-R945
Vimy, M.J. et al (1990) "Whole-body imaging of the distribution of mercury released from dental fillings into monkey tissues", FASEB Journal, Vol.4: 3256-3260
Wataha, J. (1999) "Biocompatability of dental alloys", The Probe, March: 21-32
World Health Organisation Criteria, 1991:118, Geneva, Switzerland

Further Reading
Huggins, H. (1993) It's all in your head: the link between mercury amalgam and illness. New York: Avery Publishing Group Inc.

October 2004



Protocol for safe removal of amalgam fillings

There are many protocol regimes to aid mercury elimination during and after amalgam removal. The cost of supplements and the complexities of taking certain products can be a major barrier for some patients. I suggest a fairly simple regime with costs kept at a reasonable level:
• before amalgam removal: Mercurius solubilis 30c or Amalagam 30c, 2 doses a day for one or two days before treatment
• after amalgam removal: one dose of Mercury solubilis 30c immediately after treatment.

Sulphur naturally binds free mercury and thus aids its elimination. Foods rich in sulphur should be eaten plentiful and as often as possible for at least one week post-amalgam removal. Such foods are onions, garlic, eggs (yolk), pulses and brassicas, e.g. sprouts, cabbage and broccoli. A selenium supplement with vitamins A, C and E is beneficial taken for one week after removal. The patient should drink plenty of good quality water.

It should be noted that amalgam fillings must be removed in a set sequence depending upon their electrical activity. In each quadrant of the mouth the filling having the highest negative charge should be removed first and so on. Remove the fillings in descending order of negative charge, until a filling with a positive reading is reached. If such a filling is present it would be removed but only after the negative charged fillings have gone.

It is essential that amalgam fillings are removed using a rubber dam and high volume suction. I think it sensible that patients should use a dentist committed to amalgam free dentistry with experience of amalgam removal and composite placement. A dentist still using amalgam might not have the experience necessary to undertake this procedure to ensure the best outcome for the patient. Patients are sometimes told that composite is not strong enough, long lasting enough or suitable for large fillings. My experience has taught me that this is completely untrue. In 15 years in practice I have never yet had to replace a composite filling which has failed and some have been very large.

There are two ways of tackling amalgam removal. One is (as I would term it) "kill or cure", whereby all amalgam fillings are removed within one week. The other method I call a "softly softly" approach whereby amalgam fillings are removed one by one at intervals of at least four weeks. This has the advantage of allowing the body to recover between each "assault on the system", which is how I imagine the body perceives the process and to which it would react accordingly. I favour the latter method as being gentler and kinder for the patient.

Because of the time and expense involved I recommend that amalgam removal should only be undertaken as a last resort once the patient's practitioner has exhausted all other avenues towards the patient recovery.

Once all amalgams have been removed it is important that no more mercury enters the body as this would defeat the detoxification process. Fish should not be eaten while there is still evidence of mercury toxicity, possibly indefinately. Patients should take saunas regularly for several months as this encourages waste products, including mercury, to be eliminated via the skin.

Finally, the two most powerful natural products for mobilising and eliminating stored mercury from body tissues are Cilantro (Chinese parsley) and Chlorella (green algae). Cilantro is taken as drops (orally) or rubbed into the wrists or ankles. Chlorella tablets are taken orally in an ascending dosage scheme to suit the patient, starting at 1g three times daily for one week only. Initially, careful supervision is necessary.

Dr K. Hajikakou Bsc BDS LDS RCS(Eng) DIHom LFHom (Dent) Dip Clin Hypnosis PGCE

Cilantro detoxifies heavy metals

(NaturalNews) Heavy metals are extremely toxic to human neurology. Mercury, lead and cadmium all contribute aggressively to the deterioration of neurological function. Fortunately, there's a simple, natural way to detox your body and remove these toxic substances from your tissues.

The solution is cilantro. It's that magical-tasting herb often used in Mexican food recipes. As it turns out, cilantro not only taste great, it also binds to heavy metals and helps remove them from your body.

Below, we're collected some important research on this remarkable ability of the cilantro herb. Read them all to learn more, then whip up your own delicious recipes using raw cilantro in your own kitchen!

Food, after all, is really potent medicine. You can also purchase cilantro liquid extracts from places like Baseline Nutritionals (their product is called "Metal Magic") or other vendors of quality superfood supplements.

Chelation needed for mercury and heavy metals detox

(NaturalNews) The modern environment is filled with many toxins. Thousands of new chemicals are invented and put into our environment and our bodies each year. A recent study showed that even newborn infants have over 200 chemicals in their blood and umbilical cord. It is impossible to avoid chemicals as they are present in the mattresses we sleep on, the carpets we walk on, the houses we live in, the waters we swim in, and even in the acid rain that washes over us when we are outside. Fortunately, there are numerous simple and inexpensive ways to clean out the body with natural chelation and detoxifying agents.

Because mercury is in our water supply, the fish we eat contain more mercury than they did in decades past. Because of the harm to fetuses, pregnant women have been advised to reduce the amount of fish they eat when pregnant. And with the newfound link between mercury poisoning and increased risk of autism, fish should be avoided, as well as vaccines containing mercury, especially the flu vaccines.

One of the ways the body cleans out toxins is via the kidneys. Heavy metals are detoxed in this way. The body also eliminates through the lungs, skin and the digestive system. Heavy metals and other chemical toxins are eliminated by being carried by the blood into the kidneys where they are filtered out of the blood and eliminated in the urine.

One of the best natural detoxification agents is a form of algae called chlorella. Chlorella is available in many natural food stores. Starting with a small dose- one capsule of 500 mg- is advised, as some people can experience nausea when starting out. This amount can be gradually increased, until a teaspoon a day is consumed.

Cilantro has also been shown to remove mercury from the blood stream. Fresh cilantro is available in many gourmet food stores and can easily be grown in a home garden or on a windowsill. Garlic can also be used as a chelating agent. This can be combined with coriander, which has been shown to eliminate mercury and lead, as well.

Cleaning toxins out of your body can improve the eyesight, mood, heart health and cardiac capacity. The lungs and blood will not have to work as hard when they are not filled with toxins. Also, immunity will be boosted. The body is built for cleansing itself naturally, and given a bit of help from plants and vegetables, it will do just that.

http://www.icnr.com/articles/pollut...
http://www.kitchendoctor.com/articl...
http://home.earthlink.net/~jedcline...

Natural means to detox heavy metals

(NaturalNews) Toxic heavy metals such as aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury and uranium are pervasive in much of the environment. While it may not be possible to completely avoid exposure there are many safe, organic and affordable products that help detoxify and eliminate these toxins from the body. This article will provide ten such examples.

1) Bentonite (Clay) - Aluminium Phyllosilicate (Montmorillonite)
Bentonite clay is a form of volcanic ash that has the ability to physically remove from the body up to 25 times its weight in impurities through a process called adsorbtion. Bentonite has laxative properties and contains high levels of iron, magnesium and silicon. Available in two forms (sodium and calcium) bentonite clay is used in cement, ceramics, acne medication, facial clay, cat litter and to clarify wine. Higher grades of clay are safe for ingestion while lower grades are for external use only and thus are of questionable benefit.

2) Bladderwrack (Sea vegetable) - Fucus vesiculosus (Fucaceae)
Bladderwrack is a type of brown seaweed found in both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The stem is used medicinally while the thallas (air filled pods) help the algae float. Containing the active components iodine, fucoidan, alginic acid and phenols in varying amounts based on the water where it grew, bladderwrack is used to relieve heartburn and to stimulate both the immune system and thyroid. Bladderwrack has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

3) Blue Green Algae (Cyanobacteria) - Anabaena sphaerica (Cyanophata)
Blue green algae such as Chlorella contain chlorophyll, an antioxidant and deep green pigment. Bacteria such as Fecal Coliform cannot coexist with chlorophyll, which helps keep fresh water clear. Algae not only contain nearly every required vitamin and mineral, but also have the effect of increasing oxygen while reducing nitrogen and carbon. Chlorella appears to bind to heavy metals to both detoxify and remove them. Studies in Japan following the nuclear disasters at Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945 showed that 8 grams of Chlorella daily caused a five-fold increase in the amounts of uranium, lead and cadmium that were eliminated.

4) Burdock (Root) - Arctium lappa (Compositae)
A potent blood purifier, burdock root removes heavy metals such as mercury along with other toxins. Containing up to 45% inulin along with arctiopicrin, arctiin, tannins and volatile oil, burdock is used to treat skin conditions such as acne. Burdock helps to purify the liver and is used as a natural cancer treatment. Burdock has antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-tumor properties.

5) Cilantro (Leaf and stem) - Coriandrum Sativum (Umbelliferae)
Cilantro contains the antioxidants camphor, carvone, elemol, geraniol and limonene. A natural deodorizer, Cilantro relieves nausea, indigestion and bloating. Consuming cilantro (the seeds of which are the spice Coriander) helps reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Cilantro kills Salmonella and removes heavy metals such as mercury from the body. Cilantro has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and can be easily grown in the home garden.

6) Garlic (Clove) - Allium Sativum (Liliaceae)
Garlic contains the antioxidant allicin, which is formed from alliin and allinase when the cloves are crushed. Garlic helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol while cleansing the liver. Offering unique health benefits when consumed in raw versus cooked or aged, Garlic has antiviral, antibacterial, antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

7) Glutathione (GSH)
Glutathione is a type of amino acid chain called a tripeptide. Glutathione modulates the order of cell life, a process called homeostasis. Glutathione is essential for handling environmental toxins as it detoxifies carcinogens (in particular arsenic) and helps the body to remove heavy metals such as cadmium, iron and mercury. This helps the metabolism and immune system by removing dead weight. GSH has antioxidant properties.

8) Onion (Bulb) - Allium Cepa (Liliaceae)
Onion contains the antioxidant quercetin. Onion relieves allergy symptoms and congestion along with helping reduce cholesterol. Onion can treat and prevent cataracts, atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease and helps remove heavy metals from the body. Onion has antimicrobial properties.

9) Selenium (Mineral)
Selenium is an essential trace mineral that functions as an antioxidant and promotes a healthy immune system. Required in remarkably small amounts (the RDA is measured in the millionths of a gram), selenium is highly toxic in larger amounts. Selenium has strong anti-cancer effects and is known to help detoxify the body and remove heavy metals including mercury.

10) Zeolite (Mineral)
Zeolite is a natural combination of volcanic ash and sea water. With a honeycomb-like structure it forms (teeny) tiny cage-like structures that physically trap heavy metals without removing critical minerals. Animal studies show zeolite to actually improve overall nutrition. A patented process purifies zeolite (since it is a heavy metal magnet it is already 'full' when found naturally). Purified zeolite has been shown to help prevent and reverse the growth of cancer cells. While it seems promising, it appears that more independent studies on zeolite are needed as most of the research is published on "Tribute to Zeolite" style web sites that enshrine the product.

_____________________________
References

More on Glutathione
http://www.lef.org/protocols/prtcl-...

How to remove heavy metals
http://proliberty.com/observer//200...

More on Zeolite
http://zeolitereview.org/videos/zeo...

Related articles by author
http://www.naturalnews.com/026246_g...
http://www.naturalnews.com/026729_s...
http://www.naturalnews.com/026261_b...

Seleniul helps mercury cleansing

(NaturalNews) While high levels of Mercury are often found in large species of fish, a more important factor to consider is the relative amount of Selenium the fish contains. Selenium, also abundant in seafood, actually helps remove Mercury from the body. Thus, consuming certain types of seafood (and other foods) that have a high Selenium to Mercury ratio can purify the body of heavy metals even when the fish contains those same elements. This article will explore the benefits of Selenium, those foods with the highest Selenium content, and the Mercury to Selenium ratio of several types of fish.

What is Selenium?

Selenium is an essential trace mineral that functions as an antioxidant and promotes a healthy immune system. Selenium is required in remarkably small amounts, with recommended daily amounts measured in the millionths of a gram (micrograms). Selenium is also toxic in larger amounts. Selenium has strong anti-cancer effects and is known to help detoxify the body and remove heavy metals including Mercury.

In the early 1970's it was discovered that Selenium is incorporated into proteins to produce selenoproteins, important enzymes that are antioxidants (they destroy free radicals and prevent cellular damage). Selenoproteins boost the immune system and help regulate thyroid function.

How Much Selenium is Required?

The average person gets about 65 micrograms of Selenium per day. 200 micrograms is considered the optimal amount while 400 micrograms is the maximum allowable daily dose. Note that too much Selenium is highly toxic to the body.

* Symptoms of too little Selenium: Cancer, heart disease, fatigue, stunted growth, high cholesterol, compromised immune system function, liver impairment, pancreatic insufficiency and sterility.

* Symptoms of too much Selenium: Arthritis, brittle nails, bad breath, hair loss, irritability, liver and kidney problems, tooth loss, jaundice.

Note that in most places including South America, most of North America, Africa, Russia and China there is little or no selenium in the soil. Northern Nebraska and the Dakotas have very high levels of Selenium however.

Seafood: Selenium Benefits

According to a recent study by the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council, a new standard (called the Selenium-Health Benefit Value or Se-HBV) is being proposed by leading researchers to measure seafood safety.

The following types of fish have very high Se-HBV, containing between 10 and 25 times as much Selenium than Mercury. High quality servings of the following fish can be expected to lower blood levels of Mercury along with providing a healthy amount of Selenium.

* Yellowfin Tuna
* Albacore Tuna
* Skipjack Tuna
* Mahi Mahi
* Wahoo

Only one fish in the Western Pacific study (Mako shark) showed higher levels of Mercury than Selenium, while one other (Swordfish) had an even, 50/50 ratio of Mercury and Selenium.

Another study by Dr. Nicholas Ralston at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows that (southern) Flounder and (wild Pacific) Salmon (including Chinook, Sockeye and Coho) have much more Selenium than Mercury. It also shows that Pilot Whale, Tarpon and most types of Shark should be avoided, with Grouper being about even.

Foods high in Selenium

* Brazil Nuts (dried, unblanched) - Brazil nuts are the only truly concentrated, natural source of Selenium, and may contain so much Selenium that one shouldn't consume too many! However different sources can vary based on the soil they are grown on. Brazil nuts can contain as much as 550 micrograms per ounce, an amount large enough to be toxic.

* Tuna (light, canned in oil) - a 3 ounce serving of Tuna contains nearly 100% the RDA of Selenium (about 63 while 65 micrograms is the RDA). Note that most cans contain dangerous BPA (Bisphonol-A, a hormone disruptor) in the liners and only two companies are known to not use this in their canned tuna. Meanwhile, higher quality tuna has as little as .08 ppm of Mercury per serving versus .38 ppm in lower quality sources.

Other foods that may contain Selenium in lesser amounts include kelp, molasses, whole wheat, turkey, chicken and beef.
_______________________
References

Selenium Fact Sheet
http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/se...

Prescription for Nutritional Healing
(Fourth Edition, pg 38)

Mercury to Selenium Ratio in Seafood Poster
http://www.wpcouncil.org/councilmtg...

Selenium: Mercury Magnet
http://www.mercuryfacts.org/fSeleni...

Mercury Calculator
http://www.gotmercury.org/article.p...

Selenium to Mercury Ratio Article - Craig Weatherby, July 2009
http://www.imakenews.com/eletra/mod...

Heavy metals natural chelation

(NaturalNews) An unfortunate result of the toxic environment we live in is that the human body accumulates microscopic pieces of heavy metal like mercury, lead, and iron. These small pieces of metal are very destructive to the human body and it is not wise to ignore their presence in the body. While there are several methods for removing these metals, by far the most superior choice is to achieve this removal by natural methods. This is not only possible, but works very well.

These pieces of metal are so small that they might seem insignificant. The bottom line, however, is that while very tiny, this metal is also very toxic to the human body. These metals are very likely connected to many common health conditions, including common cancers.

There are many places that people come into contact with heavy metals. They come from the environment, tooth fillings, and one's diet. Once inside the body, they embed themselves into body tissues almost anywhere in the body, but commonly in the liver, the kidneys, and the heart.

The implications of having these heavy metals existing inside the body is that if a free radical collides with a metal piece, the result is a chain-reaction that creates millions of new free radicals from this one initial impact. We cannot escape free radicals because they are present with us all of the time. It is when they collide with toxic heavy metals that the results can be devastating to one's health.

Once these millions of new free radicals are created, each one moves away in a new direction and spreads throughout the body. Also, these new free radicals will eventually collide with other pieces of metal and the resulting explosion of even more free radicals gets very alarming. Once there are enough of these free radicals existing in the body, DNA will be damaged and cancerous cells may be created.

The body is quite well-equipped to deal with this; however, anything we can do to help the body prevent free radicals from multiplying is worth doing. There are effective ways to help the body fight heavy metals and free radicals and this is called oral chelation.

- To help curb the free radical chain reactions, supplement with Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and other antioxidants.

- Try to eliminate contact with toxic metals in daily living.

Before beginning a metal detoxification, a colon cleanse should be performed first, as well as making sure that one's liver is in optimal condition. When embarking on a heavy metal detoxification program, it is very important to consume a diet that is high in protein. This is because the sulfur-bearing amino acids present in proteins will help the detoxification process. Never attempt to fast in any way while detoxing from heavy metals. During this kind of detoxification, take a multi-purpose vitamin that contains every essential mineral also.

It is also important to have 2-3 bowel movements per day while detoxing from heavy metals. If this is not occurring, increase the psyllium intake.

Approximately 90% of the mercury contained in our bodies gets eliminated through stools. Chlorella is an algae that has very high levels of chlorophyll and is considered one of the most potent and most pure foods that exists on earth. Chlorella is very beneficial to the detox process and it is very difficult to take too much of this.

Other natural additions to the diet that greatly improve the detoxification from heavy metals are garlic, cilantro, and MSM.

- MSM is a kind of sulfur that acts on cell membranes and helps the body eliminate mercury.

- Garlic enhances sulfur stores and is very effective when consumed every day. Crush 2-3 cloves of garlic to release the naturally active ingredients.

- Cilantro mobilizes mercury from tissues and helps chlorella to do its job of binding to the mercury so that it will be eliminated through stools. Cilantro can be easily added to vegetable juice.

N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) is something to be considered when embarking on a heavy metal detoxification program as well. NAC is created from the amino acid cysteine. This means that NAC is a natural amino acid that contains sulfur while also being a very powerful antioxidant. Because of these qualities, NAC is an effective tool for helping the body eliminate free radicals and heavy metals.

Source: http://www.healingdaily.com/oral-chelat...

Dangerous nipples for our babies

These nipples are dangerous

CERS STUDY ▪ Presence of migrated heavy metals was found in pacifier samples
http://www.telegraphindia.com/1080728/jsp/...ory_9610775.jsp


When a baby cries, a mother tries to stop him with a feeding bottle. If the baby keeps crying, she puts a pacifier in the baby’s mouth. The baby calms down.

A little old, the child is introduced to the teether. Apart from engaging the baby, the teether alleviates the pain. But the next time your baby cries, think again before putting any such infant toy in its mouth. Pacifiers, teethers and nipples may contain toxic metals that are hazardous for your little one.

The Consumer Education and Research Society (CERS), Ahmedabad, tested a range of pacifiers, teethers and nipples for the presence of migrated heavy metals (lead, cadmium and chromium), considering their high toxicity. The findings are so alarming that CERS published the report without testing larger sample sizes.

Scientists and experts are of the opinion that the presence of metals like lead, cadmium and chromium, even in the smallest amount, is hazardous to health. Even the faintest trace of these metals in pacifiers, teethers and nipples, meant for sucking and biting, can pose a health risk to infants.

The lead content in toys has become a global issue. In India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has framed standards for the maximum amount of migrated lead, cadmium and chromium in children’s toys. But there are no separate standards for infant toys like pacifiers, nipples and teethers.

Infant toys cannot be clubbed with children’s toys. These toys are meant for sucking and biting over a period of time, owing to which the toxic elements easily leak out with the saliva and get ingested into the body. Besides, the BIS standards are not mandatory for toy manufacturers.

A total of eight samples of pacifiers, teethers and nipples were tested for migrated elemental lead (Pb), calcium (Cd) and chromium (Cr). The results revealed that none of the toy samples was free from lead. The migrated lead content varied from 2.7 to 9.6 ppm (parts per million). Although this figure complies with the standards set by the BIS, the presence of lead is not acceptable, particularly in infant toys.

Nuby Natural Flex Pacifier contained 5.5 ppm of lead and Disney Baby Soother and Holder Set had 5.6 ppm of lead. Out of the three teethers tested, Mom’s and Me water-filled teether had the highest lead content (9.6 ppm), while Fisher Price Penguin water-filled teether had the lowest amount of lead (5.4 ppm). The Yash Yellow rubber nipple had the highest lead content (4.8 ppm) and Piyu silicon rubber nipple had the lowest (2.7 ppm). This is dangerous because the chewing and swallowing of toys by infants make them more vulnerable to toxic lead.

Cadmium, a heavy metal used as stabilisers in plastic and paints, was found in all the samples tested. The samples contained cadmium in a range of 0.1 to 0.6 ppm. In the pacifiers tested, the Nuby brand had more cadmium (0.6 ppm) than Disney (0.1 ppm). Mom’s and Me had more cadmium (0.3ppm) than Lucky and Fisher Price. Both these brands had 0.2 ppm of cadmium. Yash Yellow had the lowest amount of cadmium (0.1 ppm) while Alfa silicon rubber nipple had the maximum (0.4 ppm).

Cadmium is a nephrotoxin which can damage the kidneys. Ingestion of cadmium may cause abdominal pain, nausea and even death. Even a small quantity of cadmium may pose a great danger to an infant’s body.

Traces of chromium were found in all the samples tested. The amount of migrated chromium varied from 0.4 to 5.0 ppm. The Nuby Natural Flex Pacifier had a chromium content of 2.8 ppm. Out of the three teethers tested Mom’s and Me water-filled teether contained the highest amount of chromium (5.0 ppm). Alfa silicon rubber nipple contained 4.4 ppm of chromium while Yash Yellow rubber nipple contained the least (1.0 ppm).

Like lead and cadmium, chromium is also considered toxic. Highly toxic Cr (VI) may cause irritation and asthma attacks. Young people may be more susceptible to toxic effects of chromium than adults.

After the test results, paediatricians were consulted to know about the medical basis of providing pacifiers, teethers to infants, their disadvantages and alternatives. Dr Saurin Parekh, consultant and visiting paediatrician at SAL, Sterling and Jeevraj Mehta Hospital in Ahmedabad, says that these toys are major sources of bacterial and fungal infections, beside chemicals. As an alternative, he suggests using a clean, unpainted but smooth wooden pacifier. You can also give your baby a big piece of carrot, cucumber and radish after removing their upper surface with clean water.

Dr Vivek Upal, consultant paediatrician and neonatologist at Surveen Children’s Hospital, suggests that bottles not be used for feeding as both the nipple and bottle get contaminated and are made of plastic containing hazardous elements. He says that thumb sucking is a safer option than teethers, nipples and pacifiers and suggests keeping the infant’s surrounding clean and hygienic.

CERS recommends that the BIS revise the standard for safety requirements for toys, particularly the limits for toxic metals like lead, cadmium and chromium. A separate category for infant toys like teethers, pacifiers and nipples should also be made. The revised standard as well as other standards should be made mandatory for toy manufacturers and importers. Commenting on the test results, Mattel Inc. said it does not use lead or cadmium compound as stabilisers for plastics or PVC. The minute amount of lead detected may have resulted from exposure to dust, equipment or even water. The mere detection of lead at these levels, which are below the regulatory standards, doesn’t equate to a health risk.

CERS stresses that the test samples were completely sealed, having no room for dust. The laboratory uses good quality triple distilled water, which has almost zero lead content. Hence the lead content measured in the test sample of Fisher Price Penguin water teether was from the sample only.