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DESCRIPTION
Lead is one of the most toxic heavy metal contaminants known. Lead poisoning is a medical condition, also known as saturnism, plumbism or painter's colic, which occurs when a person swallows, absorbs, or inhales lead in any form causing increased blood lead levels. It is a cumulative poison that is retained in the body. Even at low levels, lead that is not excreted through the digestive system accumulates in the body and is absorbed directly from the blood into other tissues resulting in damage to the brain, nerves, and many other parts of the body. When lead leaves the bloodstream, it is stored, along with other minerals, in the bones, where it continues to build up over a lifetime. Lead from the bones may reenter the bloodstream at any time as a result of severe biologic stress, such as renal failure, pregnancy, menopause, or prolonged immobilization or illness.
Acute lead poisoning, which is somewhat rare, occurs when a relatively large amount of lead is taken into the body over a short period of time. Chronic lead poisoning - a common problem in children - occurs when small amounts of lead are taken in over a longer period. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines childhood lead poisoning as a whole-blood lead concentration equal to or greater than 10 micrograms/dL (mcg/dL or ug/dL).
Unlike some metallic elements, lead has no known functions or health benefits for humans. It is considered a metabolic poison, which means that it inhibits some basic enzyme functions. Lead reacts with selenium and sulfur-containing antioxidant enzymes in the cells, seriously diminishing the ability of these substances to protect against free radical damage. When present in toxic amounts, it can damage the heart, kidneys, liver, and nervous system.
The body cannot distinguish between calcium and lead. Once lead enters the body, it is assimilated in the same manner as calcium. Because young children and pregnant women absorb calcium more readily to meet their extra needs, they also absorb more lead per pound of body weight than adults do. People with deficiencies in calcium are more susceptible to lead toxicity as well.
MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Environmental Toxicity
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Lead can damage almost every system in the human body. Symptoms of lead poisoning typically come on over a course of several weeks in adults and several days in children. Children's symptoms also tend to be more severe. Common symptoms include:
Commonly have days of severe gastrointestinal colic.
Gums often turn blue (formation of a bluish line along the gums known as the "Burton's Line").
May experience muscle weakness. Lead affects the peripheral and central nervous system. The most common sign of peripheral neuropathy due to chronic lead poisoning is painless wristdrop (weakness of the extensor muscles of the hand) which usually develops after many weeks of exposure.
Other possible symptoms include:
Anxiety.
Arthritis, muscle and joint pain.
Behavior problems.
Confusion.
Chronic fatigue.
Diarrhea.
Digestive problems. Gout.
Growth retardation. Headaches. Hearing loss. Hyperactivity. Hypertension (high blood pressure).
Insomnia.
Learning disabilities.
Loss of appetite.
A metallic taste in the mouth.
Nausea and vomiting. Seizures.
Severe abdominal pain.
Tremors and nerve disorders.
Vertigo.
Eventually lead to blindness.
Loss of memory.
Mental disturbances.
Mental retardation.
Paralysis of the extremities.
Reproductive problems in both men and women. Coma.
Death.
Chronic lead poisoning can also cause impotence, infertility and other reproductive disorders, and liver failure. More recently, chronic exposure to lead in the environment has been found to speed up the progression of kidney disorders in patients without diabetes. It is also known that certain genetic factors increase the harmful effects of lead poisoning in susceptible children; however, these factors are not completely understood as of 2003.
According to the National Center for Environmental Health, there were about 200 deaths from lead poisoning in the United States between 1979 and 1998. Most of the deaths were among males (74%), African Americans (67%), adults over the age of 45 (76%), and Southerners (70%).
CAUSES
Lead is one of the most widely used metal in the United States today, and it is estimated that a large number of people have high levels of lead in their bodies. Sources of lead exposure include lead-based paints, ceramic glazes, lead crystal dishes and glassware, leaded gasoline, lead-acid batteries used in automobiles, tobacco, liver, water, some domestic and imported wines, canned fruit (the lead from lead-soldered cans leaches out and is absorbed by the fruits), garden vegetables (if grown in lead-contaminated soil), bone meal, and insecticides. Even such innocuous-seeming items as vinyl mini-blinds and porcelain-glazed sinks and bathtubs have been implicated in lead exposure. Lead also can be emitted into the air from motor vehicles and industrial sources.
LEAD CONTAMINATION IN WATER
Another potential source of lead poisoning is water supplied through lead piping. Lead piping was used in most homes built before 1930. Newer homes use copper pipes; however, even if you have copper pipes in your home, the chances are very good that they were assembled with lead solder, which is 50 percent lead. Solder can leach a significant amount of lead into the water supply, especially in the first few years after installation. Due to mounting concern over the amount of lead leaching into the water, the use of lead solder was banned in 1986.
LEAD, PREGNANCY & CHILDREN
Lead poisoning first gained widespread public attention when large numbers of children, especially children in inner cities, were found to have been poisoned by chips of lead-based paint that had peeled off the walls in older homes. Over 80 percent of American homes built before 1978 have lead-based paint in them, according to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC). The older the home, the more likely it is to contain lead paint, and the higher the concentration of lead in the paint is apt to be. People may have lead in the paint, dust, or soil around their homes or in their drinking water without knowing it, since lead can not be seen, smelled, or tasted. Some children acquired high lead levels from playing in lead-contaminated dirt. Dirt is often contaminated by old paint, past emissions of leaded gasoline, pollution from operating or abandoned industrial sites and smelters can find its way into the soil, resulting in contamination. This soil would get on children's hands and then into their mouths. Since children between the ages of 12-36 months are apt to put things in their mouths, they are more likely than older children to take in lead.
Since then, it has been learned that pregnant women who have high levels of lead in their bodies can give birth to babies with high lead levels. An estimated 90 percent of the lead stored in the mother's body is free to cross the placenta to the fetus. Children born to women who have toxic amounts of lead in their bodies generally suffer from growth retardation and nervous system disorders. Even low-level lead exposure in young children may be associated with impaired intellectual development and behavior problems.
Average blood lead levels in the United States have declined dramatically in recent decades, but, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 million American children under the age of 5 still have blood levels that exceed the acceptable norm. About one out of every six children in the United States has a high level of lead in the blood, according to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Children 6 years old and under are most at risk of lead poisoning. Because lead does not break down naturally, it can continue to cause problems until it is removed. Federally-funded programs are available to help homeowners and landlords delead their homes as a means of preventing lead poisoning in children.
LEAD EXPOSURE WITH HOBBIES AND WORK
A number of activities can expose participants to lead. These include making pottery or stained glass, refinishing furniture, doing home repairs, and using indoor firing ranges. People working in industries such as painting automobiles and houses, plumbing, metal workers and welders, pest exterminators, laboratory persons that work with certain chemicals and other related types of work can be exposed to high levels of lead and other toxic heavy metals. Anyone working in a profession or activity that has a risk of lead exposure (or any other heavy metal exposure) should take cautionary steps to prevent poisoning.
Today almost everyone is exposed to environmental lead. Exposure to lead and lead chemicals can occur through inhalation, ingestion or occasionally dermal contact. Lead mining and lead smelting are common in many countries, where children and adults can receive substantial lead exposure from sources uncommon today in the U.S. Most countries will have phased out use of leaded gasoline by 2007. Lead exposure in the general population (including children) occurs primarily through ingestion, although inhalation also contributes to lead body burden and may be the major contributor for workers in lead-related occupations. Inhalation is the second major pathway of exposure. Almost all inhaled lead is absorbed into the body, whereas from 20-70 percent of ingested lead is absorbed (with children generally absorbing a higher percentage than adults do). Dermal exposure plays a role for exposure to organic lead among workers, but is not considered a significant pathway for the general population, except in areas where leaded gasoline is used. Organic lead from gasoline additives may be absorbed directly through the skin.[
LEAD POISONING FROM FOOD
Imported food cans often have lead solder. Lead may also be found in leaded crystal glassware and some imported ceramic or old ceramic dishes (e.g., ceramic dishes from Mexico). A 2003 study of cases of lead poisoning in pregnant women found that 70% of the patients were Hispanics, most of whom had absorbed the lead from their pottery. In addition, food may be contaminated by lead in the water or soil.
LEAD POISONING IN WATER FOWL, GAME BIRDS & OTHER ANIMALS
Lead poisoning in waterfowl, game birds and other animals is important to humans, not only for environmental purposes, but especially in species that are hunted and consumed as food. Lead poisoning has been recognized as a mortality factor in waterfowl since the late 1800's. Lead poisoning cases today are either the result of ingestion of spent lead shot or fishing sinkers and jig heads during normal feeding activities. When the lead reaches the acidic environment of the gizzard (ducks, geese and swans) or the ventriculus (loons), it is worn down, dissolved, and absorbed into body tissues. Once the lead reaches toxic levels in the tissues, muscle paralysis and associated complications result in death.
Ducks, geese, swans and loons are the animals most commonly affected by lead ingestion, however, upland game birds including mourning doves, wild turkeys, pheasants, and quail are occasionally affected. Lead poisoning has also been noted in small mammals (raccoon) and raptors, presumably from the ingestion of lead contaminated prey. In ducks, geese and swans, lead poisoning is most commonly seen during migration in the late fall and early spring. In heavily contaminated areas, cases may be seen at any time of year.
When lead is ingested, the pellets, sinkers, or jig heads lie in the gizzard or ventriculus and begin to erode. The lead enters the circulatory system and mimics the movement of calcium. It becomes stored within the bones and is excreted via the bile into the feces. Clinical signs of lead poisoning include lowered food intake, weakness, weight loss, drooping wings, inability to fly, and green watery diarrhea. In ducks, geese, and swans, necropsy may reveal an enlarged gallbladder, impacted proventriculus, and a cracked, green-stained, peeling gizzard lining, with or without lead shot present. In loons, the ventriculus lining may be stained dark green and will have the piece of lead present. Blood smears may reveal a slight anemia. On microscopic examination, acid-fast inclusion bodies may be seen in kidney tubular epithelial cells.
In waterfowl a dose as small as 1 pellet can result in anemia, while a lethal dose of 5 or more pellets can result in death due to heart attack or muscle paralysis. Occasionally cephalic edema (swollen head) may be seen in Canada geese. It has been proposed that the mortality directly due to lead poisoning may be secondary to the losses due to "non-lethal" effects of lead such as reproductive problems, increased susceptibility to disease and infection, and increased predation due to anemia and weakened muscles. Antemortem diagnosis can be made on suspect lead poisoning cases using blood lead levels. Microscopic examination of red blood cells for red fluorescence has also been used. The most accurate postmortem diagnosis is lead analysis of liver and kidney tissue. Liver lead levels in excess of 10 ug/g (dry weight) are considered diagnostic for lead poisoning.
In most instances it is not possible to treat the affected birds for lead poisoning. However, if a bird is found in the early stages of lead poisoning, there is a treatment which appears effective. This consists of removal of the lead from the gastrointestinal tract with enemas, laxatives, emetics, or surgery to prevent further absorption. Chelating agents (CaEDTA) can then be used to remove the lead from the body by the formation of non-toxic complexes excreted by the kidney. Control of lead poisoning problem areas consists of plowing the areas to lessen the availability of spent shot to birds. All of the states in the U.S. now requires the use of non-toxic steel or bismuth shot for waterfowl hunting.
The switch from lead to non-toxic shot, such as bismuth or powdered metal/polymer shot, has significantly reduced the number of birds dying from lead poisoning in the U.S. Federal (U.S. and Canada) and state governments are addressing the issue of lead usage in fishing tackle and many groups (the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Wildlife Federation and the Environmental Defense Fund) have asked for investigations into the health dangers of lead. Some groups (the Environmental Defense Fund) have requested that lead be prohibited in fishing tackle and some states have considered legislation to do just that. The U.S. and Canadian governments are also considering a ban on lead fishing sinkers. The significance of these actions will be determined at a later date.
LEAD CONTAMINATION FOUND IN FOLK REMEDIES & COSMETICS
Certain folk medicines (for example, alarcon, alkohl, azarcon, bali goli, coral, ghasard, greta, liga, pay-loo-ah, and rueda) and traditional cosmetics (kohl, for example) contain large amounts of lead. Also, certain Chinese and Tibetan herbal remedies and techniques are contaminated with lead, and other heavy metals, such as mercury.
LEAD POISONING FROM ILLEGAL DISTILLED LIQUOR
Lead poisoning from drinking illegally distilled liquor (moonshine whiskey) is still a cause of death among adults in the southern United States.
GUNSHOT WOUNDS
Toxic amounts of lead can be absorbed from pellets, bullets or bullet fragments that remain in the body after emergency surgery.
PREVENTION & TIPS FOR A LEAD FREE ENVIRONMENT
Many cases of lead poisoning can be prevented. Once lead accumulates in the body, it remains there. Prevention is therefore much better than treatment when it comes to lead poisoning. The following measures you can take to help avoid exposure to lead:
CHILDREN
Keep the areas where children play as clean and dust-free as possible. Do not allow them to play in contaminated areas that may have lead paint or soil contamination.
Wash pacifiers and bottles when they fall to the floor, and wash stuffed animals and toys often.
Make sure children wash their hands before snacks, meals and at bedtime.
Mop floors and wipe windowsills and other chewable surfaces, such as cribs, twice a week with a solution of powdered dishwasher detergent in warm water.
Plant bushes next to an older home with painted exterior walls to keep children at a distance.
FOODS
Do not buy foods in cans sealed with lead solder, which leaches into foods. Lead-soldered cans often have remnants of solder and indentations along the seam. If you buy canned foods, look for lead-free cans that have no side seams. Be wary of imported canned foods. Other countries may have no regulations governing the use of lead solder. Do not store food in open cans, especially imported cans.
Do not store alcoholic beverages, or acidic foods or beverages such as vinegar, fruit juices, or foods made with tomatoes, in lead crystal glassware for any length of time. The lead that gives fine crystal its sparkle and brilliance leaches into foods and beverages served or stored in it. Babies and children should not be fed from crystal dishes or glassware at all.
If you are pregnant, avoid drinking hot coffee or other hot acidic beverages, such as tomato juice, from lead-glazed ceramic mugs or cups.
If you drink wine, always wipe the mouth of the bottle well (inside and out) with a damp cloth before pouring the wine. The foil wrappers around the corks of wine bottles can deposit lead around the mouth of a bottle and contaminate the beverage. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms analyzed more than 500 samples of wine and found that samples poured directly from bottles often contained more lead than samples drawn from bottles with strawlike instruments.
Do not turn bread bags inside out and use them to store other foods. The ink used to print labels on many bread bags contains considerable amounts of lead. While the lead on the labels does not get through the plastic to the bread inside, it can contaminate food if you turn the bags inside out and use them to store other foods.
Do not store or serve food in pottery meant for decorative use. Antiques and collectibles may look attractive, but this type of dinnerware is more likely to leach lead than dishes made more recently. If you buy such items, use them for decorative purposes only.
Be careful about buying imported ceramic products. The amount of lead allowable in ceramic-ware manufactured in the United States is strictly regulated, but there are often no rules governing the glazing techniques of foreign producers. Standards for acceptable lead levels are relatively strict in countries where many of our dishes are manufactured - often Great Britain and Japan, for example - but they are often more lax in other countries, such as Mexico and China. The FDA is unable to check a significant number to ensure safety.
HOUSING
Plant grass or another ground cover in soil that is likely to be contaminated, such as soil around a home built before 1960 or located near a major highway. Do not plant a food garden in contaminated soil. Use patio gardening methods using buckets or planters with soil purchased from a gardening center.
Keep painted surfaces in good repair, so that older layers of paint are not exposed, chipping, or peeling. Although lead-based paints have been banned for use in residences, numerous older homes and public housing units still contain these paints. Do not allow children to eat paint chips. Hire a professional to remove lead-based paint from any surface; people can poison themselves by burning or scraping off layers of paint.
Arrange for the house to be inspected for lead. Many state health departments will do this. If you have lead, have the home owner or landlord delead the home. This is important if you have children in the home or have you (i.e., babysitters, grandparents) have children visiting your home.
WATER
Have household tap water tested to find out if it contains lead and to ensure a safe level of lead and other minerals. National Testing Laboratories sells a kit for testing impurities in your water. Your state health department may also conduct tests for water contaminants at a reasonable price. Culligan International provides a WaterWatch Hotline that can put you in contact with a local Culligan dealer, who will provide a free water-testing service. You can also request a free booklet entitled "Water Quality Answers" by writing to the Water Quality Association. Replace old lead-based plumbing, if needed. Use a quality water filter to trap impurities.
Never use the first water drawn from your tap in the morning. If the cold water has not been used for six hours or more, run it for several seconds (at least 3 minutes is recommended), until it becomes as cold as it will get, before using it for drinking or cooking. The more time water has been sitting in the pipes, the more lead it may contain. Better yet, use only steam-distilled, filtered, deionized quality water for drinking and cooking. If safe drinking water is not available, treat water with grapefruit seed extract before using it. Add 10 drops of extract per gallon of water and shake or stir vigorously.
Use only water from the cold-water tap for drinking, cooking, and making baby formula, since hot water is likely to contain higher levels of lead. Consider using quality bottled water for consumption in place of tap water.
Never boil water longer than necessary. Five minutes is enough. Boiling concentrates contaminants in the water, including lead.
WORKIf you work with lead in your job or hobby, change your clothes and wash your hands (and any other exposed body parts) before you go home. Wash your hands before eating or handling anything that will go in your mouth. Use OSHA approved protective gear for protection for exposure.
US RULES & REGULATIONS
See United States Environmental Protection Agency: Rules and Regulations for its jurisdiction and regulations.
"In 1998, the US Government instituted regulations which limit the amount of lead in toys and other consumer products which are expected to be used by infants to 0.06 percent (or 600 ppm)."
Ten ug/dL or mcg/dL (micrograms/deciliter) was adopted by CDC in 1991 as an action level for children, an advisory level for environmental and educational intervention. There are requirements that children receiving Medicaid be screened. Most states ask or require primary care health care providers and persons in charge of screening programs to report both presumptive and confirmed cases of lead toxicity to the appropriate health agency. This is to ensure abatement of the lead source, education of the patient, and remediation steps are undertaken. In some states, the clinical laboratories performing blood lead testing are required to report cases of lead toxicity.
WORKPLACE AIR
The OSHA Lead Standard specifies the permissible exposure limit (PEL) of lead in the workplace, the frequency and extent of medical monitoring, and other responsibilities of the employer. OSHA has set a PEL (enforceable) of lead in workplace air at 50 mcg/m3 averaged over an 8-hour workday for workers in general industry. NIOSH at CDC has set a Recommended Exposure Limit (REL) of 50 mcg/m3 to be maintained so that worker blood lead remains less than 60 mcg/dL of whole blood. The ACGIH has set a threshold limit value for a time-weighted average (TLV/TWA) of 50 mcg/m3 for lead in workplace air (except for lead arsenate).
The NIOSH Adult Blood Lead Epidemiology and Surveillance (ABLES) program, a state-based surveillance program of laboratory-reported adult blood lead levels works to reduce the rate of adults (age 16 or older) who have blood lead levels of 25 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL) or greater.
Lead contaminated soil can pose a risk through direct ingestion, uptake in vegetable gardens, or tracking into homes. Uncontaminated soil contains lead concentrations less than 50 ppm but soil lead levels in many urban areas exceed 200 ppm. (AAP 1993) The EPA's standard for lead in bare soil in play areas is 400 ppm by weight and 1200 ppm for non-play areas. This regulation applies to cleanup projects using federal funds. The soil screening level (SSL) for lead represents a conservative estimate for a level that would be protective of public health in residential soils based on an analysis of the direct ingestion pathway for children.
EPA has set drinking water standards with two levels of protection. The maximum contaminant level goal (MCLG) is zero. This is the level determined to be safe by toxicological and biomedical considerations, independent of feasibility. EPA's final rule establishes an action level is set at 15 mcg/L. The use of lead solder and other lead-containing materials in connecting household plumbing to public water supplies was banned by EPA as of June 1988.
FDA has set a number of action levels (enforceable) and levels of concern for lead in various food items. These levels are based on FDA calculations of the amount of lead a person can consume without ill affect. FDA has set an action level of 0.5 mcg/mL for lead in products intended for use by infants and children and has banned the use of lead-soldered food cans. (FDA 1994 and FDA 1995 as cited in ATSDR 1999)
House paint contained up to 50 percent lead before 1955. Federal law lowered the amount of lead allowable in paint to 1 percent in 1971. The CPSC has limited since 1977 the lead in most paints to 0.06 percent (600 ppm by dry weight). Paint for bridges and marine use may contain greater amounts of lead.
Both the federal government and the state of Massachusetts are considering (as of September 2007) action against lead in children's jewelry. "But Mr. Durbin said he was disappointed with Ms. Nord and the safety commission, which he said did not appear to be attacking the problem aggressively enough, including moving too slowly to institute and enforce a ban on lead in children's jewelry. He also mocked a new agreement with Chinese officials to block lead in toys, saying that the Chinese government told his office the policy had long been in place."
TREATMENT
DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
A high level of lead in the blood can be detected with a simple blood test. In fact, testing is the only way to know for sure if children without symptoms have been exposed to lead, since they can appear healthy even as long-term damage occurs. The CDC recommends testing all children at 12 months of age and, if possible, again at 24 months. Testing should start at six months for children at risk for lead poisoning. Based on these test results and a child's risk factors, the health care provider will then decide whether further testing is needed and how often. In some states, more frequent testing is required by law.
The measure of lead in the body is the blood lead level (BLL), measured in micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood (mcg/dL or ug/dL). Nearly everyone has a measurable BLL. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that a BLL of 10 mcg/dL or above is a cause for concern. However, lead can impair development even at BLLs below 10 mcg/dL. However, BLL measures current exposure to lead, but lead may also be incorporated into bone from prior exposures that will not show in BLLs until this bone-lead becomes "mobilized" through pregnancy or fracture healing. A fetus can be poisoned in utero if its mother had high bone-lead from either childhood exposure or a later occupational or other exposure that is subsequently mobilized by the fetal need for calcium. K-fluorescent X-ray metering can measure bone-lead.
Portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) equipment can be used to measure lead concentrations and exposures in the field, from lead paint, children's toys, etc. Simple inexpensive test kits are available, which show color changes based on chemical reactions, but they are inexact.
Blood film examination may reveal "basophilic stippling" of red blood cells, as well as the changes normally associated with iron deficiency anemia (microcytosis and hypochromia).
In 2002, the World Health Organization announced that evidence is emerging to show that even lower doses of lead than previously thought could cause neurological damage in children. A spokesperson said that virtually no level of lead was safe and that measures needed to be taken to remove lead from the environment.
CHILDREN AT RISK FOR LEAD POISONING
Outside of occupational hazards, the majority of lead poisoning occurs in children under age twelve. The main sources of poisoning are from ingestion of lead contaminated soil (this is less of a problem in countries that no longer have leaded gasoline) and from ingestion of lead dust or chips from deteriorating lead-based paints. This is particularly a problem in older houses where the sweet-tasting lead paint is likely to chip, but deteriorating lead-based paint can also powder and be inhaled. Small children also tend to teethe and suck on painted windowsills as they look outside. In most American states, landlords and those selling such houses are required to inform the potential residents of the danger.
Children with an increased risk of lead poisoning include those who:
- Live in or regularly visit a house built before 1978 in which chipped or peeling paint is present, particularly poor children in sub-standard housing.
- Live in or regularly visit a house that was built before 1978 where remodeling is planned or underway.
- Have a brother or sister, housemate, or playmate who has been diagnosed with lead poisoning.
- Have the habit of eating dirt, or have been diagnosed with pica.
- Live with an adult whose job or hobby involves exposure to lead.
- Live near an active lead smelter, battery-recycling plant, or other industry that can create lead pollution.
ADULTS AT RISK FOR LEAD POISONING
Testing is also important for adults whose job or hobby puts them at risk for lead poisoning, including:
- Glazed pottery or stained glass making.
- Furniture refinishing.
- Home renovation.
- Target shooting at indoor firing ranges.
- Battery reclamation.
- Precious metal refining.
- Radiator repair.
- Automotive or house painting / house deleading.
- Art restoration.
- Working with chemicals containing any lead compounds.
Lead has also been found in drinking water. It can come from plumbing and fixtures that are either made of lead or have trace amounts of lead in them.[18] Exposure to metallic lead such as small lead objects, can rarely lead to an increase in blood lead levels if the lead is retained in the gastrointestinal tract or appendix.
Lead may be contracted through the mucous membranes through direct contact to mouth, nose, eyes, and breaks in skin.
TREATMENT
The average person has less than 10 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL or ug/dL), or 100 parts per billion (ppb) of lead in their blood. People who have been exposed to an unusual amount of lead will have blood lead levels higher than 200 ppb - most clinical symptoms of lead poisoning begin at around 100 ppb. The effect on children's mental/cognitive abilities has been noted at very low levels. The levels found today in most people are orders of magnitude greater than that of ancient times. These levels are within an order of magnitude of levels that have resulted in adverse health effects. Blood lead levels once considered safe are now considered hazardous, with no known threshold.
In 2002, the American Association of Poison Control Centers launched a nationwide toll-free hotline for prevention and treatment of poisonings. The number is (800) 222-1222. In the case of any suspected poisoning emergency, they can be contacted 24 hours a day.
In the event of emergency poisoning, patients or parents should call a poison hotline at (800) 222-1222 or 9-1-1. The first step in treating lead poisoning is to avoid further contact with lead. For adults, this usually means making changes at work or in hobbies. For children, it means finding and removing sources of lead in the home. In most states, the public health department can help assess the home and identify lead sources.
If the problem is lead paint, a professional with special training should remove it. Removal of lead-based paint is not a do-it-yourself project. Scraping or sanding lead paint creates large amounts of dust that can poison people in the home. This dust can stay around long after the work is completed. In addition, heating lead paint can release lead into the air. For these reasons, lead paint should only be removed by a professional who knows how to do the job safely and has the equipment to clean up thoroughly. Occupants, especially children and pregnant women, should leave the home until the cleanup is finished.
Medical professionals should take all necessary steps to remove pellets, bullets or bullet fragments from patients with gunshot injuries. The term "lead poisoning" is sometimes used as a dysphemism for gunshot wounds, as almost all bullets are mainly composed of lead. Despite this, bullets lodged in the body rarely cause significant levels of lead poisoning. Bullets lodged in the joints are the exception, as they deteriorate and release lead into the body over time.
CHELATION THERAPY
Although the most important part of treating lead poisoning is decreasing exposure to lead, if blood levels of lead are high enough, your health care provider may also prescribe chelation therapy. This refers to treatment with chemicals that bind to the lead and help the body pass it in urine at a faster rate. There are four chemical agents that may be used for this purpose, either alone or in combination. Edetate calcium disodium (EDTA calcium) and dimercaprol (BAL - British anti-Lewisite) are given through an intra-venous line or in shots, while succimer (Chemet) or DMSA (dimercaptosuccinic acid), and penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen) are taken by mouth. (Although many health care providers prescribe penicillamine for lead poisoning, this use of the drug has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration.)
Additionally, a comparative study of chelating agents showed that vitamin C (ascorbic acid), along with DMSA, CDTA and DMPS increased survival in an animal model of lead intoxication, while EDTA, N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) and various other agents did not. High serum levels of vitamin C have been associated with a decreased prevalence of elevated blood lead levels and intervention with supplemental vitamin C was shown to markedly decrease lead levels in smokers (mean: 81 percent). Authors hypothesize, however, that this effect might be due to an inhibition of lead absorption.
CHELATION TREATMENT
(From Merck Manual Professional: Lead Poisoning)
For all patients, the source of lead is eliminated. If lead chips are visible on abdominal x-ray, whole-bowel irrigation with a polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution (colyte, golytely, moviprep) at 1000 to 2000 mL/h for adults or 25 to 40 mL/kg/h for children is done until repeat x-ray shows no lead. If the cause is bullets, surgical removal should be considered. Children with blood lead (PbB) greater than 70 ug/dL (greater than 3.40 umol/L) and all patients with neurologic symptoms should be hospitalized. Patients with acute encephalopathy are admitted to an ICU.
Chelating drugs (e.g., succimer under the trade name of Chemet [meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid], CaNa2EDTA, dimercaprol under the trade name of Bal in Oil [British anti-lewisite, or BAL]) can be given to bind lead into forms that can be excreted. Chelation should be supervised by an experienced toxicologist. Chelation is indicated for adults with symptoms of poisoning plus PbB greater than 70 mg/dL and for children with encephalopathy or PbB greater than 45 mg/dL (greater than 2.15 mmol/L). Liver and kidney disorders are relative contraindications for chelating drugs. Chelating drugs should not be given to any patient with ongoing exposure to lead because chelation can increase GI absorption of lead. Chelation removes only relatively small amounts of metal. If total body burden of lead is very large, multiple chelations over many years may be required.
Patients with encephalopathy are treated with dimercaprol (Bal in Oil) 75 mg/m2 (or 4 mg/kg) IM q 4 h and CaNa2EDTA 1000 to 1500 mg/m2 IV (infusion) once/day. The 1st dose of dimercaprol should precede the 1st dose of CaNa2EDTA by at least 4 h to prevent redistribution of lead into the brain. Dimercaprol may be stopped after the first few doses depending on lead levels and symptom severity. Dimercaprol-CaNa2EDTA combination therapy is given for 5 days, followed by a 3-day washout period; then the need for continued chelation is reassessed.
Patients without encephalopathy are usually treated with succimer (Chemet) 10 mg/kg po q 8 h for 5 days, followed by 10 mg/kg po q 12 h for 14 days. If these patients have symptoms, they can alternatively be treated for 5 days with dimercaprol 50 mg/m2 via deep IM injection q 4 h plus CaNa2EDTA 1000 mg/m2 IV once/day.
Dimercaprol, which can cause vomiting, is given with parenteral or oral fluids. Dimercaprol can also cause pain at the injection site, numerous systemic symptoms, and, in patients with G6PD deficiency, moderate to severe acute intravascular hemolysis. This drug should not be given concurrently with iron supplements. Dimercaprol is formulated with peanut derivatives and thus is contraindicated in patients with known or suspected peanut allergy.
CaNa2EDTA can cause thrombophlebitis, which can be prevented by giving the drug IV, not IM, and by using an IV concentration of less than 0.5 percent. Before beginning treatment with CaNa2EDTA, adequate urine flow must be confirmed. Serious reactions to CaNa2EDTA include renal insufficiency, proteinuria, microscopic hematuria, fever, and diarrhea. Renal toxicity, which is dose-related, is usually reversible. Adverse effects of CaNa2EDTA are probably due to zinc depletion.
Common adverse effects of succimer include rash, GI symptoms (e.g., anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, metallic taste), and transient elevations of liver enzymes.
Patients with PbB greater than 10 ug/dL should be monitored closely, and they or their parents should be taught how to reduce their exposure to lead. Because the potential health risks involved with the use of chelating medications and the potential side effects, medical chelation therapy should only be done under the supervision of a qualified health care provider with sufficient experience in chelating heavy metals. Medical chelation should not be performed as a do-it-yourself treatment at home.
EXPECTED RESULTS
If acute lead poisoning reaches the stage of seizures and coma, there is a high risk of death. Even if the person survives, there is a good chance of permanent brain damage. The long-term effects of lower levels of lead can also be permanent and severe. However, if chronic lead poisoning is caught early, these negative effects can be limited by reducing future exposure to lead and getting proper medical treatment.
CONSIDERATIONS
Succimer (Chemet) is a drug that may be prescribed to chelate lead from children. This drug may reduce illness and death from lead poisoning. Succimer has been approved for use only in children who have significantly high blood lead levels (above 45 mcg/dL). Succimer may alter immune system function.
Chelation with EDTA can help prevent accumulation of lead. Chelating agents work by binding to lead in the bloodstream and expediting its elimination from the body in urine.
The CDC recommends routine blood testing for lead in all children at one and two years of age. When small children have blood levels above 10 mcg/dL - the highest the CDC considers acceptable - their intelligence suffers. Numerous studies show an average decrease of 1/4 point in intelligence quotient (IQ) for each 1 mcg/dL increase in blood lead level. The risks of lead have been known for decades. But there is surprisingly little agreement on exactly when a child has accumulated a toxic amount of lead. Everybody agrees that there is no "safe" level of lead exposure. However, the CDC does not recommend taking action unless a child's blood-lead level exceeds 10 micrograms/dL (mcg/dL or ug/dL) - a threshold set in 1991. Pediatrics professor John Rosen, MD, director of the lead program at the Children's Hospital at Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, N.Y. says "that's far too high." "There are now seven peer-reviewed articles in the medical literature that indicate the major loss of IQ occurs in children at blood-lead levels of less than 7.5 micrograms/dL," Rosen says. "A threshold of 10 is no longer protective of children. ... I would very strongly suggest lowering the threshold to 5, based on abundant data in the last five years."
A portable battery-operated testing system that can analyze lead levels in the blood within 3 minutes is available. The testing unit, called LeadCare, was developed by ESA Biosciences Inc. ( www.esainc.com), and Andcare Inc. of Durham, North Carolina (which as merged with ESA).
Hair analysis is another method that can be used to detect heavy metal toxicity. However, results may not be accurate if the sample is contaminated, for example, by hair dye or other possible sources of lead. If you suspect lead poisoning, have a hair analysis done to determine long-term accumulation of lead. Blood tests reveal only the most recent exposure.
One way to get an indication if your child may be at risk of developing lead poisoning is to have a veterinarian check the lead levels in your family dog. Long before children show symptoms of lead poisoning, dogs can get colic, then diarrhea or vomiting, and even seizures. Dogs ingest the lead the same way small children do - licking toys covered with lead-filled dust, chewing old paint on walls or furniture, or putting things covered with old lead paint flakes in their mouths.
Children with above-average levels of lead in their blood are half an inch shorter, on average, than other children. According to one researcher, lead levels are significantly higher in infants who die of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) than in infants who die of other causes.
A study reported in The New England Journal of Medicine suggested that even low levels of lead in children may lead to lifelong problems, such as severe reading difficulties, learning disabilities, poor eye-hand coordination, retarded growth, and slowed reflexes. High levels of lead in the body have also been implicated in autism, behavioral problems, hyperactivity, and juvenile delinquency.
Even though leaded gasoline has been almost completely replaced with unleaded fuel, there is still an estimated 4 to 5 million metric tons of lead in American soil that accumulated as a result of leaded gasoline use in the past. Anyone who grows crops or garden produce near busy roads or highways should check the lead level in the soil.
Any building 50 years old or older should be inspected by a professional, and if there is lead-based paint on the walls, it should be removed by someone with the proper expertise and equipment. Simply painting over old lead-based paint can release tiny particles containing lead into the air, posing a possible lead hazard.
A previously under-reported source of lead poisoning may be lead-based hair coloring used by men. According to the Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association, 80 percent of the hair-coloring products designed for men use so-called progressive coloring agents, which are made of lead acetate. It is known that some lead is absorbed through the scalp, raising questions about the risk of lead poisoning.
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) considers children and pregnant women at highest risk for lead poisoning.
An easy way to test dishes for lead is to use LeadCheck Swabs from Hybrivet Systems. The same company also makes a kit for testing for lead in water. Their website is www.leadcheck.com.
Do not smoke, and avoid second-hand smoke.
More information about lead poisoning is available from the National Lead Information Center.
Lead Hotline - The National Lead Information Center
The National Lead Information Center (NLIC) provides the general public and professionals with information about lead hazards and their prevention. NLIC operates under a contract with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), with funding from EPA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Contact the National Lead Information Center to receive a general information packet, to order other documents, or for detailed information or questions.
By Phone: call and speak with a specialist Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm eastern time (except Federal holidays) at 1 (800) 424-LEAD [5323].
By Recorded Message: the NLIC telecommunications systems has the capability to receive recorded messages in English and Spanish 24-hours a day, seven days a week at 1(800) 424-LEAD [5323].
By FAX: 585-232-3111
By Mail: 422 South Clinton Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620
By E-mail: Use the form on their website to send them your comments, questions, and/or document requests.
HERBAL & HOLISTIC RECOMMENDATIONS
NUTRITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
While changes in diet are no substitute for medical treatment, they can complement the detoxification process. The following nutritional changes are recommended:
Make sure that your diet is high in fiber and that you supplement it with apple pectin (found in apples). Increase your consumption of soluble fibers, such as pears, apples, oatmeal, oat bran, rye flour, dried beans, guar gum, and psyllium. Links for apple pectin are found in Supplements below.
Increase your consumption of fresh vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts, whole grains, and seeds. Eat beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, eggs, garlic kale, legumes, onions and spinach. The increased consumption of sulfur-containing foods, such as eggs, garlic, and onions help to rid the body of lead. Garlic has been used to reduce lead poisoning in animals.
Take a quality high-potency multi-vitamin & mineral supplement (1 tablet a day or as directed on the label). See supplements below for more information.
Taking additional supplements of vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, iron, calcium, zinc, L-lysine, L-cysteine, and L-cysteine supplements. These vitamins, minerals, and amino acids help reduce the amount of lead that the body absorbs. Iron is especially important, since people who are deficient in this nutrient absorb more lead. Thiamine, a B-complex vitamin, has been used to treat lead poisoning in animals. See Supplements below for more information.
Make sure your diet is low in fat and contains adequate amounts of iron and calcium. The body absorbs lead more easily if it is lacking in calcium and iron, or if it has been exposed to a high-fat diet.
A 2002 report stated that eating tofu may lower lead levels in the blood since it is rich in calcium.
Using a filter to prevent lead contamination in the water. Drinking lots of water (at least eight glasses per day) to help the body excrete the toxin. Drink steam-distilled or quality water only for drinking and cooking.
Always check labels when purchasing foreign-made products such as eye makeup (kajal, surma, or kohl dyes from the Middle East) and over-the-counter remedies (Alarcon, Azarcon, Coral, Greta, Liga, Maria Luisa, or Rueda). Some of these products may contain as much as 99 percent lead oxide.
Committing to a three-day fasting at the end of every season. Fasting is the oldest method of detoxification. During fasting, patients should take supplements and drink four glasses of juice a day to assist the cleansing process and to prevent exhaustion.
HERBS
Milk thistle (Silybum mariannum) protects the liver and assists in the detoxification process by increasing glutathione supply in the liver. Glutathione is the enzyme primarily involved in the detoxification of toxic heavy metals including lead.
Herbal Remedies: Thisilyn, Milk Thistle Extract, Nature's Way, 175 mg, 100 VCaps
Herbal Remedies: Milk Thistle Extract, Standardized, Nature's Way, 175 mg, 60 VCaps
Turmeric contains Curcumin, which inhibits tumor growth and boosts the liver's ability to eliminate environmental toxins from the body.
Herbal Remedies: Turmeric Extract (Curcuma Longa), Standardized to 95% Curcuminoids, Nature's Way, 500 mg, 120 Tabs
Herbal Remedies: Curcumin, NOW Foods, 665 mg, 60 VCaps
Herbal Remedies: Turmeric Powder, C/S, 4 oz. Bulk
Herbal Remedies: Turmeric Root Powder, Certified Organic, Banyan Botanicals, 1/2 lb.
Herbal Remedies: Turmeric Tincture, 100% organic, 2 fl. oz.
Alfalfa is rich in vitamins, minerals and other valuable nutrients, and has a detoxifying effect on the body.
Herbal Remedies: Alfa Max, Alfalfa Extract, Nature's Way, 525 mg, 100 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Alfalfa Powder, Whole Food Supplement, NOW Foods, 1 lb.
Herbal Remedies: Alfalfa Leaves, Nature's Way, 405 mg, 100 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Alfalfa, NOW Foods, 650 mg, 500 Tabs
Herbal Remedies: Alfalfa Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Try using Aloe Vera Juice. Take 1/2 cup in the morning and 1/2 cup before bedtime. This softens bowel movements and aids in removing metals from the digestive tract. You may have to adjust the amount taken if the suggested amount causes diarrhea (it is a natural laxative).
Herbal Remedies: Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Juice, 99.7% Pure, Certified Organic, Nature's Way, 1 Liter
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Juice, Herbal Aloe Forte, Organically Grown Unprocessed Whole Raw Aloe Vera, 33.8 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Juice, Certified Organic, NOW Foods, 32 oz.
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Juice, Pure Aloe Force, Organically Grown Unprocessed Whole Raw Aloe Vera, 33.8 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Gel & Juice (Wild Berry Flavor), Premium Quality, Nature's Way, 1 Liter
Chlorella and Cilantro are helpful for absorbing toxic metals.
Herbal Remedies: Chlorella Powder, NOW Foods, 100% Pure, 4 oz.
Herbal Remedies: Chlorella Green Algae, Nature's Way, 410 mg, 100 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Chlorella Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Chlorella Powder, 4 oz. Bulk
Mountain Rose Herbs: Chlorella (Chlorella Pyrenoidosa), Cracked Cell Wall Chlorella, 497 mg, 100 Caps
Mountain Rose Herbs: Cilantro Leaf Bulk Herb, Certified Organic, 4 oz to 1 lb Size Choice
Homeopathic medicines can be administered once the source is removed, to help correct any imbalances brought on by lead toxicity. See a qualified homeopathic health care provider to set up a detoxification program for you or your family member.
NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
Unless otherwise specified, the following recommended doses are for adults over the age of 18. For a child between 12 and 17 years, reduce the dose to 3/4 the recommended dose. For a child between 6 and 12 years old, use 1/2 the recommended dose, and for a child under 6, use 1/4 the recommended dose.
NUTRIENTS Supplement Suggested Dosage Comments Essential Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) As directed on label. Helps to detoxify the body of metal pollutants and works as a powerful antioxidant. Apple Pectin As directed on label. Binds toxins and metals, removing them from the body. Calcium 2,000 mg daily. Prevents lead from being deposited in the body tissues. Use calcium chelate form. Do not obtain calcium from dolomite, bone meal, or cow's milk, which can contain lead.
Cal-Mag Pre-Chelated Calcium & Magnesium, Vital Earth, 240 GelcapsMagnesium 1,000 mg daily, at bedtime. Balances and Works with calcium. Use magnesium chelate form.
Magnesium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 350 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.,
Cal-Mag Pre-Chelated Calcium & Magnesium, Vital Earth, 240 GelcapsGarlic (Kyolic) 2 tablets 3 times daily, with meals. Protects the body's immune system. Helps to bind with and excrete lead. Kelp As directed on label. Contains essential minerals, especially calcium and magnesium. Also removes unwanted metal deposits.
Kelp Supplement, Nature's Way, Certified, 650 mg, 100 Caps,
Kelp Seaweed, Norwegian, NOW Foods, 100% Natural, 550 mg, 250 Caps,
Kelp Seaweed, Norwegian Powder, 4 oz. BulkAnd/Or
AlfalfaAs directed on label. Rich in vitamins, minerals and other valuable nutrients, and has a detoxifying effect on the body.
Alfa Max, Alfalfa Extract, Nature's Way, 525 mg, 100 Caps,
Alfalfa Powder, Whole Food Supplement, NOW Foods, 1 lb.,
Alfalfa Leaves, Nature's Way, 405 mg, 100 Caps,
Alfalfa, NOW Foods, 650 mg, 500 Tabs,
Alfalfa Tincture, 2 fl. oz.L-Lysine
And
L-Cysteine500 mg daily, on an empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 mg vitamin B-6 & 100 mg vitamin C for better absorption. See Amino Acids for more information. L-Lysine assists calcium absorption.
sulfur-containing amino acids that act as detoxifiers and remove heavy metals.
L-Cysteine, Structural Support With Vitamin B-6 & C, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Tabs,
L-Lysine, Highest Potency, Pharmaceutical Grade, NOW Foods, 1000 mg, 100 Tabs,
L-Lysine HCl Powder, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 552 mg, 1 lb.,
L-Lysine, NOW foods, 500 mg, 100 Tabs,
L-Lysine, Pharmaceutical Grade Stable Tartrate Form, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Caps,Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) As directed on label. Helps the body detoxify toxic metals
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) Liquid, Pure Lignisul, 16 fl. oz.,
MSM Powder, Pure Lignisul, 4 oz.,
MSM, Pure Lignisul, With Vitamin C, 875 mg / 100 mg, 120 CapsS-Adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) As directed on label. Has antioxidant effects and helps chelate heavy metals and remove them from the body. Caution: Do not use if you have manic-depressive illness or take prescription antidepressants.
SAM-e, Enteric Coated, NOW Foods, 100 mg, 30 Tabs,
SAM-e With B Vitamin Cofactors, Vegetarian, Enteric Coated, NOW Foods, 200 mg, 60 TabsVitamin C With Bioflavonoids 5,000-20,000 mg daily, in divided doses. Helps to neutralize the effects of lead. Use ascorbic acid form. See Ascorbic Acid Flush for more information.
Vitamin C Liquid w/ Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, Dynamic Health, 1000 mg, 16 fl. oz.,
Ester C With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 1000 mg, 90 Tabs,
Vitamin C 1000 With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 VCaps,
The Right C, Nature's Way, 1000 mg, 120 TabsZinc 80 mg daily. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements. Can displace lead and lower the body burden. Low levels of zinc have been found in people with high lead levels.
Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.,
Colloidal Silver & Zinc Lozenges, Silva Solution, 90 Lozenges,
Zinc Lozenges W/ Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges,
Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.,
Zinc (Chelated), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 CapsVery Important Glutathione
Plus
L-MethionineAs directed on label, on an empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 mg vitamin B-6 and 100 mg vitamin C for better absorption. Powerful antioxidants that protect the liver, kidneys, heart, and central nervous system. See Amino Acids for more information.
L-Glutathione, 250 mg, 60 Caps,
Glutathione With Vitamin C, Hypoallergenic, Allergy Research Group/Nutricology, 60 Caps,
L-Methionine, 500 Mg, With B-6, 10 mg, 100 CapsLecithin Granules
Or
Capsules1 Tablespoon 3 times daily, before meals or 1,200 mg 3 times daily, before meals. Protects cell membranes.
Lecithin Vegetarian Granules, NOW Foods, 97% Phosphatides, Identity Preserved Non-GE, 1 lb,
Lecithin Liquid, NOW Foods, Vegetarian, 16 fl. oz.,
Lecithin Concentrate, Nature's Way, 400 mg, 100 SoftGelsSelenium 200 mcg daily. If you are pregnant, do not exceed 40 mcg daily. A potent antioxidant. Caution: Do not take supplemental selenium if you are pregnant or have heart, kidney, or liver disease.
Selenium Supplement, Yeast Free, NOW Foods, 200 mcg, 180 Caps,
Selenium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 50 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.,
Ionic Selenium, Trace Minerals, 300 mcg, 2 fl. oz.,
Selenium, 100% Natural, Nature's way, 200 mcg, 100 CapsImportant Vitamin B Complex 100 mg of each B vitamin daily, with meals 3 times daily (amounts of individual vitamins in a complex will vary). B vitamins that improved circulation, build red blood cells, and aid liver function. Anti-stress vitamins, especially important for normal brain function. Needed for tissue repair. B vitamins work best together.
Ultimate B (Vitamin B Complex), Nature's Secret, 60 Tabs,
Vitamin B-100 Complex, w/ Coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way, 631 mg, 100 CapsPlus Extra
Vitamin B-1 (Thiamine)100 mg daily. These B vitamins are vital in cellular enzyme function and important in brain metabolism; they help to remove the lead from the brain.
Vitamin B-1 (Thiamine HCl), 100% Natural, 100 mg, 100 CapsPlus Extra
Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine)50 mg daily. These B vitamins are vital in cellular enzyme function and important in brain metabolism; they help to remove the lead from the brain.
Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine), Nature's Way, 100 mg, 100 CapsHelpful Vitamin A 5,000 IU daily for 2 months. If you are pregnant, do not exceed 10,000 IU daily. Potent antioxidants that destroy free radicals and protect the cells from damage due to lead poisoning.
Vitamin A, 10,000 IU, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 100 SoftgelsPlus
Natural Beta-Carotene
In With
Carotenoid ComplexAs directed on label. Potent antioxidants that destroy free radicals and protect the cells from damage due to lead poisoning.
Beta Carotene (Natural Dunaliella Salina), Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 25,000 IU, 100 Softgels,
Multi-Carotene Antioxidant, Nature's Way, 60 SoftgelsVitamin E 200 IU daily or 400 IU every other day. Potent antioxidants that destroy free radicals and protect the cells from damage due to lead poisoning. Use d-alpha-tocopherol form.
Ester E Natural Vitamin E, California Natural, 400 IU, 60 Softgels,
Vitamin E, 400 IU, 100% Natural, NOW Foods, 100 Gels,
Vitamin E-1000, NOW Foods, 1000 IU, 100 Gels,
Vitamin E, d-alpha-tocopherol, 400 IU, 100 Softgels
Or
Micellized Vitamin A Emulsion
(American Biologics)As directed on label. Supplies vitamins A and E in easily assimilable emulsion form that enters the system rapidly to destroy free radicals, boost the immune system, and help the body to use oxygen efficiently.
LEAD POISONING SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS
Information, products and supplements for lead poisoning, a condition that occurs when a person absorbs too much lead.
Alfa Max, Alfalfa Extract, Nature's Way, 525 mg, 100 Capsules
Nature's Way Alfa-Max Alfalfa Extract capsules is a 10X extract of fresh green alfalfa leaves.Algas Metal Detox Liquid Extract, NutraMedix, 1 fl. oz.
NutraMedix Algas Metal Detox Liquid Extract Nutramedix utilizes a proprietary extraction and enhancement process that provides a highly bio-available, full spectrum extract.Alive! Whole Food Energizer, Multi-Vitamin & Mineral With Naturally Occurring Iron (No Iron Added), Nature's Way, 90 Tabs
No other supplement contains more life-giving nutrients than Nature's Way Alive Multi-Vitamin. Alive Multi-Vitamin is better absorbed into your blood stream because its tablets disintegrate up to 5X faster than other leading brands.Alpha Lipoic Acid With Rosemary, Nature's Way, Pharmaceutical Grade, 50 mg, 60 Caps
Alpha Lipoic Acid is central to recycling other antioxidants like Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and GSH glutathione.Detox Foot Pads, 10 Detox Foot Patches Per Box
The BodyPure brand detox foot pads are the most effective, 100% natural detox foot patches available. This detox pad has been the number one selling detox foot patch in Japan 12 times in a row! The Japanese and now many Americans have are using these detox foot patches to cleanse the body of unwanted toxins. These foot patches literally suck the toxins out of the body to help the body function better. Removing body toxins helps support liver function, and helps combat fatigue, attention deficit, allergies, and poor circulation, while increasing metabolism and enhancing sleep. Any time you can remove unwanted toxins from your body you support your body's wellbeing. These detox foot patches are designed to maximize the removal of toxins in the body. They are easy to use, and work quickly.
Suggested Use: One self sticking detox foot patch is applied to each foot nightly for five days, and then repeated for 5 day periods for up to thirty days. For continued maintenance cleansing a foot patches may be applied one to two times per week. Patches may be applied on the heal, center or front of the foot. Best when used at night when sleeping. Complete application instructions and use are included in each box.
1) The visual evidence of removed toxins is apparent after each application of the detox foot patch. The physical progress is apparent when used over a few consecutive days.
2) Samples used detox pads were sent to SRC Analytical Lab, a highly accredited Environmental Laboratory. Their test results showed that the detox foot pads absorbed Nickel, Arsenic and Mercury into the pads.
3) Multiple detox pads removed from various individuals were analyzed by using a syncrometer. The syncrometer is an electronic device used to detect numerous toxic substances. The following toxins have been identified in the used detox pads: benzene, isopropyl alcohol, methyl alcohol, aluminum, cadmium, copper, lead, mercury, nickel, thallium, arsenic, asbestos, DAB dye, fast green dye, sudan black dye and PCB (plastic byproduct).
4) Extensive research in Japan has been conducted with the use of Thermography (infrared technology). The detox foot pads have been tested for their ability to stimulate circulation by means of these thermographic sensors.
5) Further research was conducted on the healing and relaxation properties of the BodyPure pads through measurement of alpha brain waves.Garlicin HC, Healthy Circulation Formula With Odor Free Garlic, Nature's Way, 90 Enteric Coated Tabs
Garlicin HC garlic supplement supports cardiovascular health with the help of hawthorn, cayenne and vitamin E.Just An Ounce Calcium & Magnesium, 99.9% Lead Free, Almond Flavor, 16 fl. oz.
Just An Ounce, Calcium and Magnesium Liquid can help with the development of strong bones and teeth, also prevents muscle cramping, risk of colon cancer, maintain regular heart beat, protects against osteoporosis and helps relax the central nervous system.Kelp Seaweed (Norwegian Laminaria Digitata) Powder, 4 oz. Bulk
Kelp contains nearly thirty minerals which nourish the glands, especially the thyroid and pituitary. It helps balance the body's metabolism and rate at which it burns calories.L-Glutathione, 250 mg, 60 Caps
L-Glutathione is a tripeptide amino acid produced in the liver primarily from cysteine. L-Glutathione acts as a cellular antioxidant by inhibiting free radical proliferation.L-Methionine, 500 mg, Plus B-6, 10 mg, 100 Caps
L-Methionine is an essential sulfur amino acid. The body cannot produce L-Methionine, which must be obtained from food or supplement sources.Metal-X Metal Detox, Life-Flo, 30 VCaps
Metal-X is a natural chelation product. It gently removes toxic heavy metals from the body while providing superior mineral supplementation.NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine), NOW Foods, Selenium, Molybdenum, 600 mg, 100 Caps
In order for us to utilize our protein intake in an efficient manner, an ample supply of the amino acid glutathione must be present in our cells - NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) is essential in the formation of glutathione, as it directly impacts our ability to synthesize the proteins we ingest.Pronatura Dentox, Homeopathic Amalgam / Mercury Detoxification, 200 Tabs
Pronatura Dentox, Homeopathic Amalgam / Mercury Detoxification tablets are a homeopathic detoxifier that aid the body in eliminating mercury from amalgam, heavy metals deposits, other toxins, as well as alleviating their associated symptoms.Vitamin C 1000 With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 VCaps
Nature's Way Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems.
HerbalRemedies: Lead Poisoning / Lead Toxicity Information
HerbalRemedies: Lead Poisoning / Lead Toxicity supplements & Products
HerbalRemedies: Environmental Toxicity Information
HerbalRemedies: Environmental Toxicity supplements & Products
HerbalRemedies: EDTA Chelation / Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid / Ca-EDTA / Calcium EDTA
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or a family member have lead toxicity or suspect a lead toxicity and may need professional consultation and need testing for verification.
You or a family member have any increase of symptoms or other signs of lead toxicity.
You have any unexpected or unusual symptoms. Some people may have sensitivity, allergies, or other health conditions which would prevent them from using certain herbs or other treatments.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
ORGANIZATIONS
National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
Mail Stop F-29
4770 Buford Highway N.E.
Atlanta, GA 30341-3724
(888) 232-6789
http://www.cdc.gov/nceh/ncehhome.htm
National Lead Information Center, National Safety Council
1025 Connecticut Ave. N.W.
Suite 1200
Washington, DC 20036
(800) LEAD-FYI (general information)
(800) 424-LEAD (detailed information or questions)
http://www.nsc.org/ehc/lead.htm
Office of Water Resources Center, Environmental Protection Agency
Mail Code (4100)
Room 2615 East Tower Basement
401 M St. S.W.
Washington, DC 20460
(800) 426-4791
http://www.epa.gov/ow/
LINKS
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HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
This is only a small sample of educational materials and products available through Amazon.com. Use the search box provided below to search for a particular item.
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