Toxins are the mantra of the present-day environment we breathe in. The oxygen we breathe into the water we drink or vegetables we eat are all adulterated with some toxins or others. We can have water or air purifiers for water and oxygen purification at our place or office. We can treat fruits and vegetables with baking soda and salt. What about other toxins; which can hamper our brain in long run.
The brain being the head of the family instructing other member organs need to be protected against these toxins. We will discuss a few of these neurotoxins to be cautious of their use in our life. According to a study in 2006, Lancet Neurology has come out with a few most alarming chemicals used in day-to-day life.
- MERCURY: The presence of mercury in the human body can cause brain diseases like Parkinson’s and also lead to low immunity. All human beings are exposed to some form of mercury. The two most basic form is seafood (fish) or mercury light bulbs. As eating fish provides most of the nutrients, eating is not avoidable. Try to eat your fish with fiber-rich food. This fiber binds well with mercury and helps in flushing out of mercury in form of stool. Do not fidget with the mercury bulb directly. Remain away from a fused bulb for at least 24 hours, when it gets fused.
- ALUMINIUM: Aluminum also known as a present-day neurotoxin, can be a major dysfunction of the brain especially in diseases like Alzheimer’s. The major contributor to this chemical is beverage containers and aluminum utensils used for cooking. Do not cook at high temperatures in aluminum utensils and avoid cooking acidic food in them. Do not wrap hot food in aluminum foil. Try to do it when the food is warm.
- PLASTIC & PVC: Excessive use of polythene and plastic can damage our kidneys, liver, and brain. Most marine animals are prey to this chemical. Plastic does not get recycled and cause major harm to human and animals. We should try to replace plastic and PVS jars with glass containers.
- BENZENE, TOLUENE & XYLENE: These chemicals are mostly found in form of VOCs (Volatile organic) in dirt and dust around us. This dirt can affect our nervous system and even toxicate bone marrow in a few cases. Try to keep your surroundings dirt-free and vacuum your place regularly.
- LEAD: Excessive use of lead can damage a few parts of our brain. At times Food corporations keep on banning products having high lead quantities.
Written by: Mrs. Ruchi Mehta
Health Blogger
