Research shows evidence that the long-term accumulation of aluminum in the brain can contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is a common type of dementia resulting in a decline in intellectual function. The average person ingests 3-10 milligrams of aluminum a day, which totals 90-300 milligrams each month. Aluminum toxicity can lead to colic, rickets, stomach trouble, nervousness, headaches, kidney and liver conditions, memory problems, weak bones and aching muscles. Aluminum is a naturally occurring element present in the earth’s crust. It is found in our soil, air and water. The trouble begins with the “addition” of aluminum into our bodies from unnatural sources, which can occur through diet and exposure. Many manufacturers use aluminum to make cookware, utensils and foil wrap. It is found as an ingredient in over-the-counter pain pills and anti-inflammatory medications. Aluminum is also a main ingredient in baking powders, toothpaste, deodorant, table salt, grated cheese and bleached flour. Many municipal water supplies are treated with aluminum sulfate and fluoride. The two combine to make aluminum fluoride, which is very difficult to pass out of the body. If aluminum fluoride is absorbed into the body’s cells and tissues it stays there, negatively impacting health. One of the biggest sources of ingested aluminum is antacids used for digestive problems, which include brands such Tums, Mylanta, Maalox and Rolaids. If you question whether you suffer from aluminum toxicity, a hair analysis can determine aluminum levels in your body. You can detoxify aluminum from the body with certain nutritional supplements, such as apple pectin, and/or by using an intravenous mineral treatment called chelation therapy. If you would like to avoid aluminum toxicity altogether, maintain a diet high in fiber (aluminum can bind to the fiber and portions may pass through the bowels), use only stainless steel, iron or glass cookware to prepare, bake and cook food (check the materials stamp on the underside of the pan) and avoid the use of products that contain aluminum. For instance, aluminum-free baking powder, flour, toothpaste and deodorant are all available at the health food store or online from various vendors.
