Maree Frawley

Heavy Metal Clearing with Maree Frawley @mareerejuvenate Therapeutic Yoga & Holistic Health Mapping

How Heavy Metals Can Impact Our Health

This is not medical advice. This information is for education and entertainment purposes. Seek Professional Guidance and support with any lifestyle and nutritional change.

This section is an information section.

Please be mindful that there are solutions and specific steps that you can take whether you are on medications, health treatment protocols or beyond the simple needs of fitting into a specific box.

The action steps will be empowered by you and specific to your needs. Before you can take the best actions for you, we need to develop some foundation knowledge, benchmark and then match to your specific bio-individuality.

Sometimes the information will be detailed, heavy and even serious, but it is all with the intention of getting you the best support to maximise your vitality, assist you to live your magnificence and help you experience your best life possible!

Labels given to health conditions often imply permanence and a one-way street of deterioration. However, there is more than enough science and clinical evidence to support that your body is a self-healing, self-regulating miracle that thrives when specific conditions are provided.

Let’s have some fun together!

Heavy Metal Clearing with Maree Frawley @mareerejuvenate Therapeutic Yoga & Holistic Health Mapping

Health Conditions Associated with Heavy Metal Exposure

Heavy metals, including mercury, lead, cadmium, arsenic, and aluminum, accumulate in the body from sources such as dental amalgam fillings, contaminated water, food, pharmaceuticals, supplements, cosmetics, detergents, and agricultural soils, as discussed previously.

These metals disrupt cellular processes, induce oxidative stress, impair enzyme function, and promote inflammation, contributing to a wide array of health conditions (Environmental Health Perspectives, 2003; Toxicological Sciences, 2010).

Below is a detailed list of associated conditions that are now known to have a link with heavy metal burdens.

This list is not to cause fear or anxiety…. rather it is to empower with the knowledge that there are pathways to stabilise and potentially improve. If you get information overload, just scroll through and let your subconscious brain look over the list. If something catches your attention, read a little deeper in that area.

I am available for discussion and questions and the videos will provide action steps and simple explanations.

A heavy metal cleanse is a gentle achievable process for any individual.

Neurological and Cognitive Disorders

Dementia

  • Mechanism: Heavy metals, particularly mercury and lead, cross the blood-brain barrier, causing oxidative stress and neuronal damage, which impair cognitive function and contribute to dementia (Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 2014).
  • A further example is mercury from amalgam fillings: disrupts synaptic signaling, while lead inhibits neurotransmitter release.
  • Impact: Memory loss, confusion, and impaired decision-making, especially in older adults.
  • Reference: Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 2014; DOI: 10.3233/JAD-132645.

Alzheimer’s Disease

  • Mechanism: Aluminum and mercury are implicated in amyloid-beta plaque formation and tau protein tangles, hallmarks of Alzheimer’s, by promoting oxidative stress and neuroinflammation (Neurotoxicology, 2011).
  • Aluminum from cookware, pharmaceuticals or deodorants and mercury from fillings are key culprits.
  • Impact: Progressive memory decline, disorientation, and behavioral changes.
  • Reference: Neurotoxicology, 2011; DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2011.05.007.

Parkinson’s Disease

  • Mechanism: Lead and mercury damage dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, increasing oxidative stress and disrupting motor control (Toxicology Letters, 2008).
  • Impact: Tremors, rigidity, and impaired movement.
  • Reference: Toxicology Letters, 2008; DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2008.06.852.

Cognitive Impairment and Brain Fog

  • Mechanism: Heavy metals disrupt neurotransmitter function (e.g., GABA, dopamine), impairing cognitive clarity and processing speed (Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, 2015).
  • Impact: Difficulty concentrating, mental fatigue, and reduced memory.
  • Reference: Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, 2015; DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2014.07.005.

Mood Disorders (Anxiety, Depression)

  • Mechanism: Mercury and cadmium alter serotonin and cortisol levels, contributing to mood dysregulation (Neurotoxicology, 2011).
  • Impact: Persistent anxiety, depression, or irritability.
  • Reference: Neurotoxicology, 2011; DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2011.05.007.

Cancers

Lung Cancer

  • Mechanism: Arsenic and cadmium, found in contaminated water or food (e.g., rice grown in cadmium-rich soil), are classified as Group 1 carcinogens by the IARC, causing DNA damage and inhibiting apoptosis (International Journal of Cancer, 2015).
  • Impact: Increased risk of lung tumors, even in non-smokers.
  • Reference: International Journal of Cancer, 2015; DOI: 10.1002/ijc.29034.

Breast Cancer

  • Mechanism: Cadmium mimics estrogen, disrupting hormonal balance and promoting mammary cell proliferation (Environmental Health Perspectives, 2012). Aluminum from deodorants may also contribute.
  • Heavy metals trapped in this area combined with underwire bras are also factors.
  • Impact: Higher risk of hormone-related breast tumors, especially in women over 40.
  • Reference: Environmental Health Perspectives, 2012; DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1104170.

Liver Cancer

  • Mechanism: Arsenic and cadmium induce oxidative stress and DNA mutations in hepatocytes, increasing hepatocellular carcinoma risk (Journal of Hepatology, 2016).
  • Impact: Liver dysfunction and tumor development.
  • Reference: Journal of Hepatology, 2016; DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2015.08.030.

Skin Cancer (Melanoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma)

  • Mechanism: Arsenic in water or food damages DNA in skin cells, increasing UV-induced cancer risk. Chemical sunscreens (e.g., oxybenzone) may trap heavy metals, amplifying local toxicity (Environmental Health Perspectives, 2015; Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, 2017).
  • Impact: Increased risk of melanoma or basal cell carcinoma.
  • Reference: Environmental Health Perspectives, 2015; DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1408648.

Bladder Cancer

  • Mechanism: Arsenic and cadmium in contaminated water or soil disrupt DNA repair, promoting urothelial cell tumors (Toxicological Sciences, 2010).
  • Impact: Painful urination and bladder tumors.
  • Reference: Toxicological Sciences, 2010; DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfq173.

Hepatic and Digestive System

Fatty Liver Disease

  • Mechanism: Lead and cadmium overwhelm liver detoxification pathways, causing lipid accumulation and oxidative damage (World Journal of Gastroenterology, 2016).
  • Impact: Liver inflammation and impaired fat metabolism.
  • Reference: World Journal of Gastroenterology, 2016; DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i37.8227.

Gall Bladder Dysfunction (Gallstones)

  • Mechanism: Heavy metals disrupt bile production, altering composition and increasing gallstone formation (Journal of Hepatology, 2016).
  • Impact: Pain, digestive issues, and biliary obstruction.
  • Reference: Journal of Hepatology, 2016; DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2015.08.030.

Gastrointestinal Disorders (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Leaky Gut)

  • Mechanism: Mercury and cadmium impair gut barrier function, increasing intestinal permeability and inflammation (Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 2019).
  • Impact: Bloating, diarrhea, and food sensitivities.
  • Reference: Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 2019; DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2018.09.005.

Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders

Diabetes (Type 2)

  • Mechanism: Cadmium and mercury disrupt pancreatic beta cells, impairing insulin production and causing insulin resistance (Environmental Health Perspectives, 2012).
  • Impact: Elevated blood sugar and metabolic dysfunction.
  • Reference: Environmental Health Perspectives, 2012; DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1104170.

Thyroid Dysfunction

  • Mechanism: Mercury and lead interfere with thyroid hormone synthesis, disrupting metabolism and energy regulation (Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, 2015).
  • Impact: Fatigue, weight gain, or hypothyroidism.
  • Reference: Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, 2015; DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2014.07.005.

Hormonal Imbalances

  • Mechanism: Cadmium and aluminum mimic or disrupt estrogens, affecting reproductive and adrenal function, particularly in women over 40 (Environmental Health Perspectives, 2012).
  • Impact: Mood swings, irregular periods, and menopausal symptoms.
  • Reference: Environmental Health Perspectives, 2012; DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1104170.

Immune and Inflammatory Conditions

Autoimmune Diseases (e.g., Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus)

  • Mechanism: Heavy metals trigger immune dysregulation by activating pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α) and autoantibody production (Toxicological Sciences, 2010).
  • Impact: Joint pain, fatigue, and systemic inflammation.
  • Reference: Toxicological Sciences, 2010; DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfq173.

Chronic Inflammation

  • Mechanism: Heavy metals generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), promoting systemic inflammation and tissue damage (Journal of Biochemical and Molecular Toxicology, 2009).
  • Impact: Persistent pain, fatigue, and increased disease risk.
  • Reference: Journal of Biochemical and Molecular Toxicology, 2009; DOI: 10.1002/jbt.20268.

Cardiovascular System

Hypertension

  • Mechanism: Lead and cadmium damage vascular endothelium, increasing blood pressure and cardiovascular stress (Environmental Health Perspectives, 2003).
  • Impact: High blood pressure and heart strain.
  • Reference: Environmental Health Perspectives, 2003; DOI: 10.1289/ehp.5636.

Cardiovascular Disease

  • Mechanism: Heavy metals promote atherosclerosis by inducing oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation (Toxicology Letters, 2008).
  • Impact: Heart attacks, strokes, and arterial blockages.
  • Reference: Toxicology Letters, 2008; DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2008.06.852.

Renal and Urinary System

Kidney Damage

  • Mechanism: Cadmium and lead accumulate in renal tubules, causing oxidative damage and impairing filtration (Environmental Health Perspectives, 2012).
  • Impact: Reduced kidney function, proteinuria, and kidney stones.
  • Reference: Environmental Health Perspectives, 2012; DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1104170.

Bladder Dysfunction

  • Mechanism: Arsenic and cadmium disrupt urothelial cell function, increasing inflammation and urinary issues (Toxicological Sciences, 2010).
  • Impact: Frequent urination or infections.
  • Reference: Toxicological Sciences, 2010; DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfq173.

Skin and Musculoskeletal System

Dermatitis and Skin Irritation

  • Mechanism: Heavy metals in cosmetics (e.g., lead in lipsticks) or detergents cause oxidative stress, impairing skin barrier function (Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2013).
  • Impact: Rashes, itching, and sensitivity.
  • Reference: Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2013; DOI: 10.1038/jid.2012.339.

Bone Loss (Osteoporosis)

  • Mechanism: Cadmium disrupts calcium metabolism, weakening bones and increasing fracture risk (Environmental Health Perspectives, 2003).
  • Impact: Brittle bones, especially in women over 40.
  • Reference: Environmental Health Perspectives, 2003; DOI: 10.1289/ehp.5636.

Respiratory System

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

  • Mechanism: Cadmium and arsenic in air or food damage lung tissue, increasing inflammation and airway obstruction (Environmental Health Perspectives, 2015).
  • Impact: Shortness of breath and chronic cough.
  • Reference: Environmental Health Perspectives, 2015; DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1408648.

Reproductive System

Infertility and Reproductive Issues

  • Mechanism: Lead and cadmium disrupt ovarian and testicular function, reducing fertility and altering hormone levels (Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, 2015).
  • Impact: Difficulty conceiving and hormonal imbalances.
  • Reference: Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, 2015; DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2014.07.005.

Summary and Conclusion

Heavy Metals are a contributing burden in many health conditions. Like all chronic health journeys, it may not be the sole contributor; however, simply reducing the burden slightly and having a holistic approach, you can potentially encourage the body to reach its health potential again.