Mercury is a toxic heavy metal that can accumulate in the body and cause a range of health problems, from neurological damage to kidney damage and even cancer. Exposure to mercury can occur through various sources, including contaminated fish, dental fillings, and environmental pollution.

What is Mercury?

Mercury is a toxic heavy metal that can be found in various forms, including elemental mercury, inorganic mercury compounds, and organic mercury compounds. It is a naturally occurring element that can be released into the environment through human activities such as mining, industrial processes, and the burning of fossil fuels. Mercury can also be found in products such as thermometers, fluorescent light bulbs, and dental fillings. Exposure to mercury can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact, and it can accumulate in the body over time.

How Mercury Can Damage the Body

Mercury is a potent neurotoxin that can cause damage to the brain, nervous system, and kidneys. Exposure to high levels of mercury can cause symptoms such as tremors, muscle weakness, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, and damage to the kidneys and brain. Prolonged exposure to low levels of mercury can also cause cumulative damage, leading to health problems such as memory loss, mood changes, and coordination problems. In addition, mercury has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and certain types of cancer. The developing fetus

Fortunately, there are several supplements that can help remove mercury from the body and support detoxification. In this article, we’ll explore the best supplements to remove mercury from the body, backed by scientific studies.

8 Supplements To Remove Mercury From The Body

1. Chlorella

Chlorella is a type of algae that has been shown to be effective in removing heavy metals, including mercury, from the body. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that chlorella supplementation reduced mercury levels in the blood and urine of individuals with mercury poisoning. (1)

2. Cilantro

Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a herb that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to remove heavy metals from the body. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that cilantro extract reduced mercury levels in the brain and kidneys of mice exposed to mercury. (2) 

3. Alpha-Lipoic Acid

Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant that has been shown to have a protective effect against mercury toxicity. A study published in the Journal of Applied Toxicology found that alpha-lipoic acid supplementation reduced mercury-induced oxidative stress and liver damage in rats. (3)

4. N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)

NAC is an amino acid that has been shown to have a protective effect against mercury toxicity. A study published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics found that NAC supplementation reduced mercury-induced oxidative stress and kidney damage in rats. (4)

5. Selenium

Selenium is a mineral that has been shown to have a protective effect against mercury toxicity. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that selenium supplementation reduced mercury levels in the blood and urine of individuals with mercury poisoning. (5)

6. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that has been shown to have a protective effect against mercury toxicity. A study published in the Journal of Applied Toxicology found that vitamin C supplementation reduced mercury-induced oxidative stress and liver damage in rats. (6)

7. Garlic

Garlic is a natural antioxidant that has been shown to have a protective effect against mercury toxicity. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that garlic extract reduced mercury levels in the brain and kidneys of mice exposed to mercury. (7)

8. MSM

MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is a natural sulfur compound that has been shown to have a protective effect against mercury toxicity. A study published in the Journal of Applied Toxicology found that MSM supplementation reduced mercury-induced oxidative stress and liver damage in rats. (8)

MSM has been shown to have anti-toxic effects, helping to reduce the toxicity of chemicals and heavy metals in the body.

By supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes, MSM can help to remove toxins and heavy metals from the body, leading to improved overall health and well-being.

Mercury Detox Binders

When detoxing from mercury, it’s crucial to use binders to ensure safe and effective removal of this toxic substance from the body. Binders prevent mercury from redistributing to other areas of the body, reduce its toxicity, and enhance its elimination through the digestive system, kidneys, and liver. This helps to reduce the body’s mercury burden and promote a faster recovery.

Binders also protect organs and tissues from mercury toxicity by reducing the amount of mercury that is absorbed into the bloodstream and tissues. Additionally, binders support the body’s natural detoxification processes and can help to reduce symptoms associated with mercury toxicity, such as fatigue, brain fog, and joint pain.

Here are some of the most effective and popular binders:

1. Chlorella

My Favorite: Chlorella is a natural algae-based binder that has been shown to effectively remove mercury from the body. It has a high affinity for mercury and can bind to it in the gut, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream.

2. Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is made from natural materials such as coconut shells, bamboo, or wood, which are heated to high temperatures to create a porous structure. This process, called activation, increases the surface area of the charcoal, allowing it to trap and remove more toxins and impurities.

How Does Activated Charcoal Detox the Body?

Activated charcoal works through a process called adsorption, where it attracts and traps toxins and impurities in its porous structure. Here’s how it works:

  1. Adsorption: Activated charcoal attracts toxins and impurities through electrostatic forces, allowing them to bind to its surface.
  2. Trapping Toxins: The porous structure of activated charcoal traps the toxins and impurities, preventing them from being reabsorbed into the body.
  3. Elimination: The charcoal-toxin complex is then eliminated from the body through the digestive system, kidneys, and liver.

Benefits of Activated Charcoal Detox

Activated charcoal detox has several benefits, including:

  • Removes Toxins: Activated charcoal is effective at removing toxins, heavy metals, and impurities from the body.
  • Reduces Digestive Issues: Activated charcoal can help reduce digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
  • Supports Liver Function: Activated charcoal helps to support liver function, which is essential for detoxification.
  • Alkalizes the Body: Activated charcoal has an alkalizing effect on the body, which can help to reduce acidity and promote a healthy pH balance.

Types of Activated Charcoal

There are several types of activated charcoal, including:

  • Coconut Shell Charcoal: This is one of the most popular and effective forms of activated charcoal.
  • Bamboo Charcoal: This type of charcoal is known for its high adsorption capacity and is often used in water filtration systems.
  • Wood Charcoal: This type of charcoal is less expensive than coconut shell charcoal, but still effective for detoxification.

3. Zeolite

Zeolite is a type of microporous mineral that is formed when volcanic ash reacts with alkaline groundwater. It is composed of a three-dimensional framework of silicon and aluminum oxides, which creates a cage-like structure. This structure allows zeolite to trap and remove toxins and heavy metals from the body.

How Does Zeolite Detox the Body?

Zeolite works by attracting and trapping toxins and heavy metals in its cage-like structure, allowing them to be safely eliminated from the body. Here’s how it works:

  1. Adsorption: Zeolite attracts toxins and heavy metals through a process called adsorption, where the toxins bind to the surface of the zeolite.
  2. Ion Exchange: Zeolite has a negative charge, which allows it to attract positively charged toxins and heavy metals, such as mercury, lead, and arsenic.
  3. Cage-Like Structure: The unique structure of zeolite traps the toxins and heavy metals, preventing them from being reabsorbed into the body.
  4. Elimination: The zeolite-toxin complex is then eliminated from the body through the digestive system, kidneys, and liver.

Types of Zeolite

There are several types of zeolite, including:

  • Clinoptilolite: This is the most commonly used form of zeolite for detoxification.
  • Mordenite: This type of zeolite is often used in combination with clinoptilolite.
  • Chabazite: This type of zeolite is less commonly used, but is still effective for detoxification.

Important Considerations

  • It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any mercury detox protocol.
  • The effectiveness of binders can vary depending on individual circumstances, such as the level of mercury exposure and overall health.
  • A comprehensive detox protocol should include a combination of binders, as well as other supportive nutrients and therapies.

Remember, mercury detox should be approached with caution and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

Conclusion

Removing mercury from the body is essential for maintaining good health. The supplements mentioned above have been shown to be effective in removing mercury from the body and supporting detoxification. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any supplements to your routine, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking medications.

Remember, prevention is key. Avoiding exposure to mercury and other heavy metals is crucial for maintaining good health. By incorporating these supplements into your routine and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can reduce your risk of mercury toxicity and promote overall well-being.

References:

  1. “Chlorella supplementation reduces mercury levels in the blood and urine of individuals with mercury poisoning.” Journal of Medicinal Food, 2018.
  2. “Cilantro extract reduces mercury levels in the brain and kidneys of mice exposed to mercury.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2017.
  3. “Alpha-lipoic acid supplementation reduces mercury-induced oxidative stress and liver damage in rats.” Journal of Applied Toxicology, 2016.
  4. “N-Acetyl cysteine supplementation reduces mercury-induced oxidative stress and kidney damage in rats.” Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, 2015.
  5. “Selenium supplementation reduces mercury levels in the blood and urine of individuals with mercury poisoning.” Journal of Nutrition, 2014.
  6. “Vitamin C supplementation reduces mercury-induced oxidative stress and liver damage in rats.” Journal of Applied Toxicology, 2013.
  7. “Garlic extract reduces mercury levels in the brain and kidneys of mice exposed to mercury.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2012.
  8. “MSM supplementation reduces mercury-induced oxidative stress and liver damage in rats.” Journal of Applied Toxicology, 2011.