From aluminum in deodorant to mercury in dental fillings, metal toxicity comes at us from every angle these 
days. The presence of these heavy metals (and others such as arsenic, cadmium and lead) has increased as industrialization and its waste products spread. We can work to avoid these substances as much as possible, but some exposure is still bound to occur. Since even small amounts of heavy metals in the body can cause negative side effects like fatigue, headaches, digestive problems and skin conditions, it’s important to use natural methods to cleanse your body of these toxins.Why Spirulina and Chlorella Are Effective for Heavy Metal Detox
The answer to natural heavy metal detoxification is as simple as a single-celled organism. Spirulina and chlorella are two separate micro-algae organisms which have existed on earth since the dawn of time. Both were revered as powerful superfoods in many traditional societies, and today are more relevant than ever for achieving overall health and well-being.
Spirulina has been shown as an effective chelating agent for removing toxins such as mercury, and even radioactive 
substances from the body. It has also been used to remove cadmium and lead from waste water.While some detoxifying supplements simply release toxins from cells and tissues, chlorella is particularly adept at binding to toxic metals and ushering them out of the entire system. Chlorella contains proteins and peptides which are designed to bind to these substances and carry them out of the body. The chlorophyll in chlorella also aids heavy metal detoxification.
Other Amazing Health Benefits
Just as important as their ability to detox heavy metals, both spirulina and chlorella exhibit strong healing and regenerating capabilities. They are filled with beneficial vitamins, minerals, proteins and fats which work together in a synergistic way to provide energy and vitality.
Appropriate Dosage
Spirulina and chlorella can be used in very high doses for heavy metal detox. This is because they are essentially foods, not manufactured supplements. Because they are so effective at binding toxins and purging them from the body, they can actually reduce some of the common side effects associated with detoxification.
A typical dosage of spirulina or chlorella for heavy metal detox is about 20 - 30 grams per day. They can be used together if desired. You may want to start with as little as 500mg daily and work up as needed to allow your body to adjust. After completing detox, you can taper down to a maintenance dosage of 3 - 6 grams per day.
It’s important to find a manufacturer of spirulina or chlorella who takes the proper steps to ensure a clean and digestible product free from fillers and additives. A little research can reveal which manufacturers are the most reputable. Natural spirulina from Hawaii is one of the most highly recommended. Chlorella is a little more difficult to source but there are some reputable brands out there.
On a side note: I've heard that iodine can also aid metal detox in high doses. 
There is some controversy about mega-dosing on iodine, but experts like David Brownstein claim that adults need a daily dose of 12.5 mg (waaaaay higher than the RDA). You can read more about this in his book Iodine: Why You Need It, Why You Can't Live Without It
and decide for yourself. Ann Marie from Cheeseslave also did some great posts on iodine here and here.Don't forget to enter the giveaway for the Renew You 2010 teleseminar on MP3! Read more about it here. You can also find a preview of the free online seminar here and listen to some of these amazing women speak about everything from ending sugar addiction to budgeting to sex. You can listen to the whole teleseminar for RIGHT NOW and until Monday the 28th (sign up here). After that MP3s will be available for purchase.
This post is part of Pennywise Platter Thursday at The Nourishing Gourmet and Fight Back Friday at Food Renegade!
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