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Arsenic

Arsenic sensitivity is often due to accumulation from contaminated water, rice, or seafood, leading to fatigue, skin issues, and inflammation. Avoid exposure for 8 weeks, support liver detox and methylation, and use key antioxidants and minerals to help reduce reactivity and protect your body.

☠️ What is Arsenic?
Arsenic is a naturally occurring element found in the earth's crust that can be toxic in both organic and inorganic forms. While small amounts may exist naturally in soil and water, inorganic arsenic—the most toxic form—can contaminate drinking water, rice, seafood, and some industrial products. Chronic exposure to arsenic can lead to intolerance symptoms that affect the nervous system, skin, immune system, and gut health.

🤔 Why Do I Have an Intolerance to Arsenic?
Your sensitivity to arsenic likely comes from toxic buildup and poor detoxification, which can strain your body’s systems:

  • Contaminated water or rice – Arsenic is often found in well water, rice (especially brown rice), and rice-based products, leading to slow accumulation.
  • Mitochondrial stress – Arsenic interferes with cellular energy production, contributing to fatigue, brain fog, or mood imbalances.
  • Skin and immune effects – Chronic exposure may lead to rashes, keratosis (rough skin), brittle nails, or inflammation.
  • Gut and detox pathway burden – Arsenic is processed by the liver, and in sensitive individuals, it may overwhelm detox pathways, causing bloating, headaches, or joint pain.
  • Epigenetic vulnerability – Some people have genetic traits that reduce their ability to methylate and eliminate heavy metals, making them more reactive to even small exposures.

🛠️ What Can I Do About It?

  • Avoid arsenic exposure for 8 weeks – This includes rice products, seafood high in arsenic, and unfiltered well water.
  • Switch to lower-arsenic foods – Choose white rice over brown, or opt for quinoa, millet, or buckwheat instead.
  • Use a water filter that specifically removes arsenic (reverse osmosis is best).
  • Avoid pressure-treated wood in old decks or playgrounds, as these may leach arsenic.
  • Track symptoms like fatigue, skin issues, or digestive discomfort during the avoidance period.

💊 Which Supplements Can Help with Arsenic Sensitivity?

💊 Supportive Options:

  • Glutathione – Key for detoxifying arsenic and reducing oxidative damage.
  • NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) – Boosts glutathione levels and supports cellular protection.
  • Milk thistle – Supports liver function and helps process toxins like arsenic.
  • Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) – A potent antioxidant that can help chelate metals and reduce tissue damage.
  • Zinc and selenium – Compete with arsenic for absorption and reduce toxicity.
  • Silica (e.g., horsetail extract) – May help bind and safely remove arsenic from tissues.

🌟 Why Might I React to Arsenic but Not Other Heavy Metals?

  • Arsenic interferes with methylation and energy production, making it especially disruptive to individuals with MTHFR or COMT gene variants.
  • It accumulates differently – Unlike lead or mercury, arsenic affects skin, lungs, and gut tissues, making its symptoms more widespread.
  • More common exposure – Arsenic is in rice, seafood, and water, making it harder to avoid than some metals.
  • Different detox routes – Arsenic requires methylation and liver conjugation, so if those systems are sluggish, it stays in the body longer.

🍽️ Common Exposure Sources:

  • Rice and rice products (brown rice, rice cereal, rice milk)
  • Unfiltered well water (especially in rural areas)
  • Seafood (especially shellfish and seaweed)
  • Pressure-treated wood in older structures
  • Imported fruit juices and some wines

🍽️ Alternatives (if tolerated):

  • Quinoa, millet, or buckwheat instead of rice
  • Filtered water using reverse osmosis
  • Smaller fish (like sardines or wild salmon) over shellfish
  • Use ceramic, steel, or untreated wood for cooking and furniture