Kviksølv er et naturlig forekommende tungmetall som finnes i visse produkter som termometre og tannfyllinger. Mens lav eksponering vanligvis er ufarlig, kan høye nivåer være giftige og påvirke nervesystemet, fordøyelsessystemet og immunsystemet. Høy eksponering for kviksølv kan forårsake symptomer som skjelvinger, søvnforstyrrelser og kognitiv svekkelse, og det utgjør også betydelige miljøfarer, særlig gjennom forurensning av vann.
Individuals who would benefit from testing their mercury levels include those with high seafood consumption, dental professionals, and residents of areas with high industrial pollution. People who use traditional medicines containing mercury or work in industries like mining and manufacturing should also consider testing.
Common sources of mercury exposure are consumption of certain fish and shellfish, dental amalgam fillings, industrial emissions, and some skin lightening creams and traditional medicines. Broken thermometers and fluorescent light bulbs also pose risks.
Detoxing from mercury involves eliminating or reducing exposure sources. A balanced diet, rich in selenium and certain vitamins, can aid in detoxification. Medical treatments like chelation therapy are sometimes used, but only under professional supervision. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider for safe detox methods.