1. Getting the Facts on Arsenic
Unfortunately, arsenic can be found in pesticides, laundry detergents, cigarette smoke, environmental pollution and even table salt, seafood, beer and water. However, people who work with pesticides and mining are at a greater risk of arsenic poisoning. While the majority of arsenic leaves the body within three days, it can potentially accumulate in the lungs, kidneys, liver and skin, leading to various forms of cancer. The most common symptoms of arsenic poisoning include headaches, fatigue, confusion, change in fingernail pigment, vomiting, diarrhea, hair loss and even convulsions. If you feel you are at risk or experience any of these symptoms, seek treatment for arsenic poisoning as soon as possible. Generally, a hair strand test is performed to determine the level of arsenic in your blood.
2. First Things First
When treating arsenic poisoning, your doctor will most likely prescribe chelation therapy in either pill or as an injection. A chelating agent mixes with the blood, trapping arsenic so that it can be removed from the body. However, chelation therapy is not always effective for everyone, so eliminating your exposure and using a number of natural treatments for arsenic poisoning is extremely important.
3. A Daily Dose of Sulfur
Sulfur, which is found in a variety of everyday foods, help the body to eliminate arsenic. Try to include eggs, beans and other legumes as well as garlic in your daily diet. Additionally, increasing your fiber intake will help to speed elimination of arsenic from the body, so eating plenty of fresh, raw vegetables and whole grains will also help to treat poisoning.
4. A Little Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an important vitamin in the treatment of arsenic poisoning, as it helps the body to detoxify, eliminating not just arsenic but a number of other pollutants. During the first few months after arsenic poisoning, take 2,000 mg of vitamin C each day. If you notice stomach upset after taking vitamin C, split the dose up throughout the day. After two or three months, cut down to 1,000 mg until you are sure that the poisoning has passed. To increase the effects of vitamin C, purchase supplements which also contain bioflavanoids.
5. Speed Things Up
Selenium has shown to speed the elimination of arsenic from the body as well and should be taken daily until poisoning has passed. Most doctor's recommend 100 mg of selenium taken with meals. In addition to selenium, garlic extract may also help to boost the immune system and detoxify the organs. While garlic has the greatest benefits when eaten raw, the required four to five cloves a day can be overpowering. Instead, try taking garlic extract in supplement form, following the manufacturer's instructions for dosage.
