Mercury, a naturally occurring element, can pose serious health concerns depending on its form and exposure level, as certain compounds are toxic to the human body. Understanding its various forms and exposure pathways is important for addressing potential health impacts. This article explores how mercury levels can be reduced in the body and strategies for minimizing future exposure.
Understanding Mercury Exposure
People encounter mercury in several forms, each with distinct sources and absorption mechanisms. Elemental mercury is found in products like old thermometers, electrical switches, fluorescent lightbulbs, and dental amalgam fillings. When inhaled as a vapor, it is readily absorbed through the lungs, entering the bloodstream. Direct skin contact or ingestion of liquid elemental mercury is poorly absorbed and poses less risk.
Inorganic mercury compounds are present in some batteries, disinfectants, and certain traditional medicines. These compounds are water-soluble and absorbed through ingestion, primarily affecting the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys.
Organic mercury, most commonly methylmercury, forms when microorganisms convert inorganic mercury. Humans primarily encounter methylmercury by consuming fish and shellfish, particularly larger predatory species, where it accumulates through the food chain. Ethylmercury, another organic form, is cleared from the blood more rapidly than methylmercury, though it can still cross the blood-brain barrier.
Medical Approaches for Removal
When mercury levels are high and symptomatic, medical intervention becomes necessary. Chelation therapy is the most established approach. This treatment involves administering specific chelating agents, which bind to heavy metals like mercury. These complexes are then excreted, primarily through urine or feces.
Commonly used chelating agents for mercury toxicity include dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA), dimercapto-propane sulfonate (DMPS), and dimercaprol (BAL). DMSA is often preferred for chronic or mild toxicity due to its oral administration and fewer side effects. Dimercaprol is typically reserved for acute inorganic mercury toxicity and is administered intramuscularly. The choice of chelator depends on the mercury form and poisoning severity.
Chelation therapy must be conducted under strict medical supervision due to potential side effects. These can include dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, kidney or liver dysfunction, and allergic reactions. Essential minerals like zinc and magnesium can also be removed during chelation, requiring careful monitoring and supplementation. Before treatment, a healthcare professional confirms mercury toxicity levels through blood or urine tests to determine if chelation is appropriate and tailor the treatment plan.
Dietary and Lifestyle Support for Detoxification
Beyond medical treatments, certain dietary and lifestyle choices can support the body’s natural detoxification pathways and help maintain lower mercury levels. These measures are not standalone treatments for significant mercury toxicity but can complement medical interventions or aid in ongoing prevention. Consuming antioxidant-rich foods helps protect cells from toxin damage.
Selenium, found in foods like Brazil nuts, tuna, and sunflower seeds, can form a complex with mercury, potentially reducing its toxicity. Sulfur-rich foods, such as garlic, onions, and eggs, provide compounds that support the liver’s detoxification processes. Cilantro and chlorella are also discussed for their potential to aid in heavy metal elimination, though direct mercury-chelating effects in humans are still being researched. A diet rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins helps the body process and eliminate various toxins, including mercury.
Minimizing Future Mercury Exposure
Preventing future mercury accumulation is key to managing mercury levels. One primary strategy involves careful selection of fish and seafood. Larger, predatory fish such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish tend to have higher concentrations of methylmercury due to biomagnification. Smaller fish like salmon, trout, tilapia, cod, and shrimp generally contain lower levels. Pregnant women, those who may become pregnant, and young children are often advised to limit or avoid high-mercury fish.
Regarding dental amalgam fillings, which contain elemental mercury, individuals concerned about exposure can discuss safe removal protocols with their dentist. Specialized procedures minimize mercury vapor release during removal. Awareness of occupational and environmental sources is also important, such as industries using mercury (e.g., chemical processes, gold mining) and proper handling of mercury-containing products. Responsibly disposing of mercury-containing items like old fluorescent bulbs and thermometers prevents mercury from entering the environment and food chain.