I have recently learned that I may have a build up of nickel in my system, and that this overkill is probably contributing to my ongoing skin problems. I am 30 this year, and have struggled with ongoing blemishes for years. Sometimes it feels like I'm 16 all the time with this issue! I've tried every topical and vitamin option I came across. Nothing really helped until my doctor tested me for heavy metals and found high levels of nickel. Has anyone else experienced similar problems? What about a heavy metal detox? Are there any potential side effects?
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You might also find this EmpowHer encyclopedia article about detoxing helpful: Detox Diets Debunked
March 5, 2009 - 6:16pmThis Comment
Anna M: Heavy metals toxicity is not uncommon because we are exposed all the time to a very toxic environment nowadays. Nickel is found in many consumer products such as stainless steel pots and pans, coins, and rechargeable batteries. Nickel can be also absorbed through breathing via inhalation of dust, ingestion of food and water, and by contact with objects containing nickel such as money and jewelry. Most people are exposed to nickel by ingestion of food and water. Our bodies can benefit from small amounts of nickel according to medical literature.
By the way, it will take the body a longer period of time to remove nickel deposited in the lungs in comparison to ingested nickel. So it is important to find the possible source in your case. You may want to say away from foods such as chocolate, soy beans, nuts, and oatmeal while your levels are high because these contain naturally higher levels of nickel.
My family and I experienced heavy metal (mercury) toxicity a few years ago. Mercury is the most stubborn heavy metal to remove because it attaches itself to fatty tissue such as the brain. I would not be too concern with your case with nickel toxicity as most of the time, no matter how one is exposed to nickel, almost ALL of the absorbed nickel will be excreted in urine. However, it will take the body a longer period of time to remove nickel deposited in the lungs in comparison to ingested nickel.
During the detoxifying period you may want to try a diet high in raw greens, high probiotics and lots of water since nickel will be eliminated through the urine mainly.
Other suggestions include:
1. Glutathione IV pushes (done at a doctor's office) or patches. The oral version is not as effective as the body does not absorbe glutathione through the digestive track effectively.
2. High dosage of Vitamin C
3. Chlorella -blue and green algae
4. High anti-oxidant fruits: acai, blue berries, goji berries
5. Try clay foot baths (sold online)
6. Far infrared baths or dry sauna
7. Lot's of water to promote elimination
8. Selenium supplements
9. Cilantro oil (natural chelator)
Hope this helps.
March 4, 2009 - 11:44pmThis Comment