“It’s a fine balance.
you’ve got the option to’t say it [has to be] zero.
That would just put food production out of business.
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So what’s an acceptable, very low level?”
Deane Falcone, PhD, chief scientific officer at the clean-water hydroponic vertical farming companyCrop One.
What are the effects of heavy metal consumption?
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Adults, too, can suffer serious health consequences.
How can you decrease your intake?
Shapiro has a few tips for consumers.
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This is critical because toxic metals can’t easily be removed from your body.
Every choice matters."
Dr. Falcone notes that positive change is on the horizon.
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“Most people are generally unaware that the problem exists.
“We’re at a transformation point, so we have the technology to control growing systems.
The next phase in agriculture production is higher quality and higher nutrient value across the industry.”
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Take note of these 10 foods most susceptible to contamination with heavy metals.
The dangers of heavy metals are most prevalent for young, developing children.
So it’s no wonder that the FDA needed to take action.
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Fruit Juice
Think twice before you pour that refreshing glass of apple juice.
However, some experts say the recommended limit isn’t low enough to protect children.
It’s also a popular base for many cereals, which lots of kids consume daily.
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The FDA guidance aims tolimit lead content in dry cerealto 20 ppb.
Rice crops absorb about 10 times more arsenic than other grains, according to the nonprofit consumer group.
It typically accumulates on the outer layer of the rice, so brown rice contains more than white.
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“Arsenic is in a huge proportion of the global rice supply,” Dr. Falcone says.
With a little bit of research, you might still findhigh-quality protein powderswith fewer harmful ingredients.
But beware of a hidden downside to packing your bowl with these fiber-rich vegetables.
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“Some plants are good at not accumulating contamination in water or soil.
For brassica, [heavy metals] accumulate in the leaves,” he says.
The metal was present in standard and organic spinach products.
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Root Vegetables
Sweet potatoes and carrots are also susceptible to soil contamination.
Root vegetables are considered at higher risk for containing heavy metals, according toConsumer Reports.
It’s still a good idea to incorporate these foods, because they do provide health benefits.
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“What’s key is eating a balance of healthy foods.”
Spices
We add flavors to our dishes to make eating more enjoyable.
Some seasonings, like turmeric and ginger, even come withadded health benefits.
You should also be on alert when evaluating supplements.
Fish
Despite its health advantages, most consumers are aware that fish can’t be eaten daily.
Because of pollution, a mercury compound called methylmercury accumulates in seafood sources in potentially dangerous amounts.
It’s not uncommon for people to have high blood mercury levels.
But adding a cup of bone broth to your routine isn’t without its risks.
