Cadmium
Exposure to cadmium comes through cigarette smoke, certain paints, water, coffee, tea, and contaminated foods, specifically refined grains. Cadmium occurs in the earth, commonly along with zinc mining. It may interfere with zinc functions in the body, affecting immunity, prostate health, and bones.
Key uses of cadmium:
- Cadmium causes mild to moderate toxicity in humans and may affect the kidneys and blood pressure, because it is a factor in hypertension. This heavy metal is not as toxic as lead and mercury, because cadmium does not appear to get into the brain.
- Chelation therapy (an intravenous vitamin therapy to pull metal from body tissues) and zinc supplements can reduce cadmium toxicity. Copper, iron, selenium, and vitamin C can help eliminate cadmium as well.
How to avoid cadmium toxicity: To prevent cadmium toxicity, avoid exposure to cigarette smoke, contaminated seafood, and refined foods, while maintaining good levels of zinc in the body
