Ingredients that add heavy metals to your body

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During this module of instruction, you will identify common food ingredients that contain allowable heavy metal residues. Scientists have determined that the concentration of heavy metals in food stuffs eaten by humans correlate directly with the heavy metals found in their bloodstream. We now know that such exposures increase your risk of developing certain diseases such at Type 2 Diabetes. Recent clinical trial data gathered throughout the world confirms children with autism have higher levels of mercury and lead in their bloodstream and children with ADHD have higher levels of lead in their blood compared to healthy children without these disorders.

1. Recognize the food ingredients that have allowable heavy metals (e.g., lead, inorganic mercury, cadmium, and arsenic).

2. Describe how heavy metals may be introduced to food ingredients (e.g., vegetable oils, corn sweeteners, food colors). 

3. Explain how exposures to certain heavy metals may lead to changes in zinc status.

4. Become familiar with recipes for preparing zinc rich meals.

5. Explain how you can eliminate or reduce your family's exposure to heavy metals.

1. Read Chapter 3 in your text. Take notes that will help you achieve your learning objectives.

2. Survey your kitchen cupboards and refrigerator. Refer to the food ingredient tables in Chapter 3. Read the food ingredient labels of any processed foods that you find in your kitchen.  List all the products that contain at least one ingredient known to contain heavy metal residues.

3. Refer back to the table in Chapter 1 that lists foods high in zinc. Find a recipe you can use to prepare a meal that incorporates foods high in zinc. Prepare that meal and share recipe with your classmates.

4. Participate in the weekly zoom discussion. Be sure to answer the discussion questions in advance of the meeting.

1. What evidence is there to suggest that consumption of highly processed food contributes to your heavy metal exposure? Review some of the references cited in Chapter 3.

2. How does heavy metal exposure impact MT gene function and your body's zinc status? From your kitchen survey findings, which food ingredients can you eliminate from your diet to improve your zinc status?

3. Share your recipe for the meal you prepared using foods high in zinc. Which ingredients were high in zinc?

Have a question? Contact Dr. Dufault at rdufault@atsu.edu  She will get back to you as soon as possible.