Mercury is a toxic element that can be found in water, air, and soil. It can also be found in certain foods and products, such as fish, dental fillings, and thermometers. Exposure to mercury can be harmful to human health, and can even impact fertility and the ability to conceive.
Why is mercury dangerous for the human body in general?
Mercury is a neurotoxin, which means it can damage the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. It can also harm the kidneys, immune system, and cardiovascular system. High levels of mercury exposure can lead to symptoms such as tremors, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating. In severe cases, mercury poisoning can be fatal.
Other signs and symptoms of mercury toxicity
- Mood swings
- Headache
- Weakness
- Muscle atrophy
- Numbness or tingling in hands, feet, or around the mouth
- Difficulty speaking, hearing, or seeing
- Abdominal pain, cramping, or diarrhea
- Skin rashes or dermatitis
- Loss of appetite
- Hair loss
- Respiratory problems
- Kidney problems
- Irregular heartbeat
Why is mercury dangerous when trying to conceive?
For women who are trying to conceive, exposure to mercury can harm fertility and increase the risk of infertility. Mercury can also affect the quality of a woman’s eggs, making it more difficult to conceive. In men, exposure to mercury can harm sperm quality and reduce fertility.
Why is mercury dangerous for fertility?
During pregnancy, exposure to mercury can harm the developing fetus, particularly the brain and nervous system. High levels of mercury exposure can lead to developmental delays, cognitive impairment, and cerebral palsy. Exposure to mercury during pregnancy can also increase the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth.
How to minimize mercury exposure to improve fertility?
- Avoid certain types of fish: Some types of fish, such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish, are known to contain high levels of mercury. If you’re trying to conceive, it’s best to avoid these fish altogether. Instead, choose fish that are low in mercury, such as salmon, trout, and sardines.
- Be cautious with canned tuna: Canned tuna can also contain mercury, but in smaller amounts than some other types of fish. If you choose to eat canned tuna, limit your intake to no more than two 6-ounce servings per week.
- Be aware of other sources of mercury: In addition to fish and dental work, other sources of mercury include some skin lightening creams, some thermometers and blood pressure cuffs, and some batteries.
By taking these steps to minimize your exposure to mercury, you can help protect your fertility and improve your chances of conceiving. If you’re concerned about your exposure to mercury or have questions about how to protect yourself and your baby, talk to your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on how to minimize your exposure and ensure a healthy pregnancy.
If you are looking for a Denver acupuncture clinic to help you with fertility, digestive problems, headaches, pain, psychological conditions, or women’s health issues, contact us today at (720)285-6251 or book an appointment online.
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