HEAVY METALS

Heavy metals are generally defined as metallic elements having a high atomic weight. Present naturally in our environment, they are today produced in large quantities because of the massive industrialization of the economies.

The main heavy metals are:

  • cadmium;

  • selenium;

  • mercury;

  • lead;

  • arsenic;

  • chromium;

  • the copper;

  • nickel;

They are toxic to the body because:

Because of their small size, heavy metals are mainly stored in the bones, liver, kidneys and brain. Acute or chronic exposure to these heavy metals is particularly harmful to the body, especially pregnant women and the elderly.

Some sectors and trades are also more exposed to this type of toxin, for example:

  • building craftsmen (painters, tilers …);

  • coachbuilders;

  • printers;

  • persons carrying out welding operations (locksmiths, metalworkers, ironworkers, boilermakers, sheet metal workers, pipefitters, etc.);

  • chemical, petrochemical, electrical, electronic and glass industries;

  • the automotive and aerospace sector;

  • manufacture of kitchen and household appliances, medical instruments, ammunition and batteries;

Smokers and regular consumers of fatty fish, shellfish and seafood also have a higher exposure to the risk of heavy metal poisoning.

In the short term, the main symptoms of exposure to heavy metals are multiple: increased nervousness, anxiety, loss of self-confidence, emotional instability, tingling of hands, dizziness …

Scientific studies show that an individual exposed to heavy metals over a long period sees a significant increase in the risk of developing certain severe pathologies such as multiple sclerosis, neurodegenerative diseases (in particular Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease). ), lung, respiratory and digestive cancers.

In case of exposure to heavy metals, it is essential to carry out targeted detoxification treatments in order to neutralize and eliminate these harmful agents and thus limit the risk of developing one or more associated pathologies.