Heavy Metals.

What a wonderful way to end year-two, with Dr. Phil! Dr. Phil was one of the most inspiring professors this year.  He taught the course Clinical Nutrition. I learned more in one of his classes than I did in after completing an entire semester in other courses. He ended the class wishing us well; telling us that we have entered a very special profession and that we are going to help many people's lives.  A simple comment, but inspiring and motivating... a lovely thing to hear especially when exams loom.

One of his classes earlier in the semester was about environmental medicine.  We talked about heavy metal poisoning (often a cause of Autism!).  He told us that whenever we see a patient presenting with neurological complaints (including Autism or an Alzheimer's-like presentation) or unexplained abdominal pain, consider heavy metal poisoning.  The follow are common sources of heavy metals. Remember, heavy metals are toxic!

Mercury:

•         Latex and paint

•         Polluted water

•         Broken thermometers

•         Vaccines

•         Fish (tuna!)

•         Dental amalgams

•         Pesticides

Lead:

•         Lead based paint

•         Drinking water (lead pipes)

•         Plastic mini blinds

•         Some fertilizers

•         Batteries

•         Lead glazed cookware

Cadmium:

•         Automobile exhaust

•         Water (galvanized pipes)

•         Tobacco

•        Refined flour/rice

•         Batteries

•        Metal rust-proofing material

Arsenic:

•         Insecticides (especially those for ants)

•         Wood preservatives

•         Shellfish

•         Well water

Aluminum:

•         Aluminum welding

•         Municipal water

•         Processed foods (pop cans!)

•         Antacid medications (like Tums)

•         Aluminum cookware

Tin:

•         Insecticides 

•         Food preservatives

•         Dental materials

•         Tin coated cans