Heavy metal toxicity is a common issue in Australia and lots of people are widely affected by this health condition. Heavy metals, such as mercury, lead and aluminium, can accumulate in the body over time and can lead to a number of concerning symptoms and health conditions. Heavy metal toxicity is primarily caused by the levels of pollution and use of chemicals that we are exposed to on a day to day basis.
The urine Mercury test offered by NutriPATH is a total measurement of urine Mercury in the body. Mercury is a highly toxic heavy metal that can accumulate in body tissues including the brain. Besides occupational exposure, most human exposure to mercury is through dental amalgams, seafood’s, and vaccinations.
There are three forms of mercury in the environment: elemental, inorganic, and organic.
Elemental mercury: (HgO) comes from batteries, thermometers, and dental amalgams. Elemental mercury is most commonly breathed in as a vapor (e.g., from amalgams) and absorbed through the lungs. It is volatile and nonpolar and quickly penetrates the blood brain barrier where it is oxidized to inorganic mercury and retained in the brain.
Inorganic mercury: (Hg2+) is found primarily in mercuric chloride and skin-lightening creams.
Organic mercury: mostly in the form of methylmercury, is found in sea foods. Inorganic and organic mercury compounds are ingested and absorbed through the intestine.
Common Conditions:
- Mood swings
- Nervousness
- Emotion changes
- Insomnia
- Headache
- Abnormal sensations
- Muscle twitching
- Tremors
- Fatigue/weakness
- Muscle atrophy
- Decreased cognitive functions
