Which is an example of a heavy metal that is toxic to humans?

Introduction: Why Heavy Metal Toxicity Needs More Than Chelation

Heavy metals like mercury, lead, arsenic, and cadmium are more common in our bodies than most people realize. At Patients Medical in New York City, we go beyond simple detox supplements. We use a functional, integrative model to uncover where toxicity is hiding in your body—and help you eliminate it naturally and safely.

We treat the root cause—not just the symptoms of metal overload.

What Is Heavy Metal Toxicity?

Heavy metals are naturally occurring elements, but when they accumulate in the body, they can be toxic. These metals can enter the body through contaminated food, water, air, or occupational exposure.

Common heavy metals include:

  • Mercury: Found in fish, dental fillings, and environmental pollutants.
  • Lead: Present in old pipes, paints, and contaminated water or soil.
  • Arsenic: Found in contaminated drinking water, pesticides, and certain foods.
  • Cadmium: Often found in tobacco smoke, certain foods, and industrial workplaces.
  • Aluminum: Used in cookware, antiperspirants, and some vaccines.

Chronic exposure to these metals can disrupt many bodily systems, including the nervous, cardiovascular, digestive, and immune systems.

Common Symptoms of Heavy Metal Toxicity

Root Causes: How Do Heavy Metals Enter Your Body?

Our environment is saturated with sources of metal exposure. These include:

  • Fish and seafood (especially tuna, swordfish, and shark)
  • Dental fillings (silver amalgams contain 50% mercury)
  • Industrial pollution and household dust
  • Non-organic produce with pesticide residues
  • Vaccines and pharmaceuticals
  • Personal care products (antiperspirants, cosmetics)
  • Tap water from aging plumbing systems

Some people are genetically less efficient at detoxifying these metals—making them more susceptible to toxic buildup.

Diagnostic Testing We Use

At Patients Medical, we rely on advanced lab testing to identify metal toxicity and its impact on your body.

Urine provocation testing for hidden metal loads

Hair mineral analysis for long-term exposure

Blood heavy metal panels (mercury, lead, cadmium, arsenic)

Genetic testing for MTHFR, GST, and detox pathway mutations

Liver function and oxidative stress markers

Gut integrity panels (leaky gut, microbial balance)

Integrative Treatments for Heavy Metals

Nutritional Therapy

  • Detoxifying foods (such as cilantro, garlic, and cruciferous vegetables)
  • Anti-inflammatory foods (like turmeric, omega-3-rich foods, and berries)
  • Hydrating foods and liquids (such as water with lemon, herbal teas, and hydrating fruits and vegetables)
  • Nutrient-dense diets (rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support detoxification)

IV Vitamin Therapy

  • Vitamin C (powerful antioxidant that supports detoxification)
  • Glutathione (a major antioxidant that helps remove heavy metals from the body)
  • Magnesium (supports detox pathways and muscle relaxation)
  • B vitamins (critical for energy production and cellular detoxification)

Herbal & Nutraceuticals

  • EDTA (for removing lead, mercury, and cadmium)
  • DMSA (a chelating agent for mercury and lead)
  • DMPS (used for mercury and arsenic detoxification)

Stress Management

  • Cilantro (helps remove mercury and other heavy metals)
  • Chlorella (a potent detoxifier that helps bind to heavy metals)
  • N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) (boosts glutathione levels and supports liver detox)
  • Alpha-lipoic acid (helps regenerate antioxidants and facilitates heavy metal detox)
  •  

Hormone Balancing

  • Liver detox protocols (using herbs like milk thistle and dandelion root)
  • Gut health restoration (with probiotics and digestive enzymes to support healthy elimination)

Real Case Study: John’s Mercury Recovery

John, 46, came to us with brain fog, anxiety, and chronic fatigue. His doctors suspected depression. But our testing revealed elevated mercury levels from decades of tuna consumption and old dental fillings.

We implemented:

  • A mercury-specific chelation protocol
  • IV glutathione and NAC therapy
  • Dental detox support with his biological dentist
  • Gut healing and brain support regimen

Six months later, John’s mercury levels dropped by 70%, and his energy and focus dramatically improved.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

 Mercury and lead are among the most toxic, especially for the brain and nervous system.

 Yes. With proper testing, detoxification, and organ support, most symptoms can be reduced or resolved.

 If they contain mercury (silver amalgam), they may be contributing. Removal should only be done safely by a biological dentist.

Some supplements can help, but true detox should be medically supervised to avoid redistributing metals.

 It depends on the metal, your levels, and your body’s detox ability. Most plans range from 3 to 6 months.

 Some lab work may be reimbursable. We provide superbills for out-of-network claims.

 Testing is the only reliable way. Symptoms alone can’t confirm exposure.

 Yes—when done under supervision and with proper nutrient support. We monitor your labs and reactions closely.

 Yes. Even low exposure can impact development, behavior, and cognition. We offer safe protocols for children too.

 Some contain trace preservatives. We review each case carefully and offer detox support if needed.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

Make an Appointment