Aluminium is a neurotoxic chemical, new studies report. This means that it can damage the brain and nervous system. The study’s authors say that this could be one reason why rates of Alzheimer’s disease are rising.
What is aluminium?
Aluminium is a chemical element with the symbol Al and atomic number 13. It is a silvery-white, soft, non-magnetic, ductile metal in the boron group. By mass, aluminium makes up about 8% of the Earth’s crust; it is the third most abundant element after oxygen and silicon and the most abundant metal in the crust, though it is less common in the mantle below. The chief ore of aluminium is bauxite. Aluminium metal is so chemically reactive that native specimens are rare and limited to extremely low temperatures. Instead, it is found combined in over 270 different minerals.
Aluminium is remarkable for its low density and its ability to resist corrosion due to the phenomenon of passivation. Structural components made from aluminium and its alloys are vital to the aerospace industry and are important in other areas of transportation and structural engineering, such as automobile bodies, railroad cars, bicycles, pipelines, and pressure vessels. Its light weight has resulted in widespread use in aircraft construction.
How does aluminium affect the brain?
Aluminium is a neurotoxic chemical that has been linked to a number of neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. Although the exact mechanisms by which aluminium causes these disorders is not fully understood, it is known that aluminium exposure can lead to the build-up of plaque in the brain and the death of neurons.
There is currently no definitive proof that aluminium exposure causes any of these neurological disorders, but the evidence is mounting and it is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore the potential link. If you are concerned about your exposure to aluminium, there are a few simple steps you can take to reduce your exposure.
Symptoms of aluminium toxicity
Aluminium is a neurotoxic chemical that can have harmful effects on the brain and nervous system. Symptoms of aluminium toxicity include memory loss, impaired learning, confusion, and difficulty in speaking and writing. Exposure to high levels of aluminium can also cause seizures, coma, and death.
Who is most at risk from aluminium exposure?
There is no safe level of aluminium exposure, and the metal is particularly harmful to developing brains. Children and unborn babies are most at risk from exposure to aluminium, as the metal can cross the placenta and accumulate in the brain. Adults with pre-existing neurological conditions are also vulnerable to the neurotoxic effects of aluminium.
5 ways to avoid aluminium exposure
There are a few simple ways to avoid aluminium exposure:
- Use aluminium-free products.
- Avoid using aluminium cookware and utensils.
- Don’t drink out of aluminium cans.
- Avoid processed foods that contain aluminium.
- Filter your water to remove aluminium contaminants.
Conclusion: aluminium is a neurotoxic chemical
It is clear that aluminium is a neurotoxic chemical and should be avoided as much as possible. There are many ways to reduce your exposure to aluminium, and I hope this article has given you some ideas on how to do that. Remember, your health is your responsibility, so take charge and make the changes necessary to protect yourself from this harmful substance.
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