Cadmium toxicity

Cadmium is a metal, normally found in the environment that can replace the body’s stores of zinc in the liver and kidneys. Cadmium is found in industrial situations (e.g. plating, engraving), plastic production, shellfish, cigarette smoke, drinking water, fertilizer and pesticides. The body can tolerate low level cadmium, but long-term exposure leads to high blood pressure, anaemia, a dulled sense of smell, joint soreness, discolouration of teeth and changes to skin and mucosal membranes.

Symptoms: headaches, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Who to consult: Chelation therapist, GP, herbalist.