The Dangers of Lead Toxicity

Lead is a heavy metal that is toxic at low levels. Pb atomic number 82 is its designation on the periodic table. Organic and inorganic compounds of lead are dangerous. Lead is very soft metal that is a poor conductor for electricity. Because it doesn't corrode easily, it is used to contain metals. It occurs in nature but not usually. It's found in ores like zinc and silver, but mostly in copper.

Lead was recognized as poisonous from ancient times. In the 20th century, the threat is posed was cause for the paint manufacturers to significantly reduce the lead used in paints. The decrease was made in gasoline and water systems and solders.

Lead Is In More Places Than You Know

Heavy Metals refers to those metallic elements with a high density (though not always high), and which are poisonous at fairly low concentrations. Heavy metals are naturally occurring components of the earth which cannot be destroyed or degraded. Also, in small quantities, some of the heavy metals, like zinc and copper, are necessary for healthy functioning of the human body.

Even useful heavy metals can become trapped and reach dangerous levels in the body. These metals trapped in the body's tissue are not easily removed and relatively low levels can diminish health. Heavy metals stimulate the production of free radicals in the body. Excessive free radical activity has various negative effects on the body.

Where Is Lead Found?

The danger of lead poisoning today is greatly decreased especially with the reduction of its use in commercial products, like paints. For lead to pose a danger, it has to be taken in through the mucus membranes of the nose, or in the mouth, eyes, or open wounds in the skin.

• Today your dangers come from ingesting foods grown in contaminated soil.
• Acid rain breaks down rocks and releases lead that might be present. This lead washes into soil and open water, contaminating drinking water and life forms in the sea.
• Ingesting paint chips or inhaling dust may be present in older houses, those that predate the change in paint formula. It is a requirement in most American states that people selling homes and apartments with lead-based paint, inform the buyers of the danger.
• Plumbing made of lead or lead traces, can leak it into the drinking water. Some cosmetics lines that are imported have lead in them.
• There are some folk medicines that have lead present in them.
• People who interact with lead in factory situations run a risk of taking in lead through dermal contact. This is localized to the population of workers and not generally a threat to others outside of the field.

What Is The Harm In Lead Toxicity?

Lead is a very old poison. It has been used for centuries in various capacities throughout time. Historically, people have suffered from its effects. The record of problems that have occurred as a result of lead poisoning includes sicknesses such as gout and colic. The damage it does in the body includes lethargy, abdominal pain, nausea, headaches and in serious cases, you may experience seizures and coma.

• Gastrointestinal problems are possible, such as constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, poor appetite, weight loss and anemia.
• In fetuses and small children the danger can be developmental. Most directly it is recorded as manifesting as learning disorders. Lead toxicity affects the central and peripheral nervous system.

Can I Reduce My Lead Toxicity?

The Lead Testing Kit

Although we are removed from some dangers of lead poisoning, the threat is not 100% in our past. There are things that you can do to reduce your levels. Some of the measures you can take to minimize the impact of lead.

• In older homes you want to make certain that the paint is kept up, if not replaced. If you have lead paint in your home and you're renovating, then you should know the protective gear to wear and how to properly ventilate.
• Eat a healthy diet of organic foods. That will give your body the nutrients that it needs. Be sure that children are getting the proper amount of iron, calcium and zinc.
• If you have lead crystal decanters, don't store alcohol in them. The acid from the alcohol could draw in the lead content.
• Cleanse your colon using Dr. Group's 6-Day Oxygen Colon Cleanse.
• You can get tested for toxic heavy metals. You may want to do it yourself using this simple Heavy Metals-Lead Testing Kit. Excess lead can be removed from your body, and it takes time. Try the Heavy Metal Cleanses to rid your body of these toxins that are bioaccumulating and might not be expelled without assistance.