Environmental Toxicity

Heavy Metals

Heavy metals are typically characterized by their high densities, atomic weights, or atomic numbers. Some heavy metals play essential roles in life when present in precise amounts, while others pose toxicity risks to humans at any level of exposure. Essential heavy metals, such as zinc, iron, and copper, are vital for functions like immunity, red blood cell formation, energy production, reproduction, thyroid regulation, collagen synthesis, and more. When maintained in appropriate quantities, these metals contribute to vibrant health. However, if their levels become excessive or are inadequately regulated by the body, they can result in adverse health consequences.

Toxic Heavy Metals

  • Toxic heavy metals, such as mercury, cadmium, lead, aluminum, and arsenic, lack identified biological functions and can significantly impact human health.

  • These heavy metals have the potential to disrupt cell membranes, damage DNA, compromise proteins, and affect other cellular structures. Additionally, they may substitute essential minerals at enzyme binding sites crucial for performing vital functions within the body.

  • Symptoms of chronic heavy metal exposure:

    • Tingling or numbness in the extremities, also known as neuropathy

    • Tremors

    • Muscle pain

    • Metallic taste in the mouth

    • Rashes

    • Mood swings

    • Headaches

 
 

Mold

Were you aware that the EPA approximates that 30-50% of buildings in the USA harbor damp conditions conducive to mold growth? Furthermore, mold inflicts billions of dollars in damage to crops and livestock annually. Whether it thrives on your shower grout, decomposing vegetables in the refrigerator, behind drywall following a pipe leak, or in basement foundation cracks after a flood, mold can have significant health ramifications. Although mold and its spores are ubiquitous, it's the specific species, concentration, and the overall health of individuals that determine its potential to pose health risks.