According to gastroenterologist Ekaterina Kashukh, arsenic can be contained in plants, water, and marine organisms. It leads to chronic poisoning.
Organic arsenic is considered relatively harmless: it is filtered by the kidneys and excreted from the body in the urine.
—Inorganic does not contain carbon and is much more common in the environment. It is this that is most toxic and dangerous, Kashuh noted.
The safe amount of arsenic per day for adults is considered to be no more than 15 mcg. Leaders in arsenic content:
- sea fish,
- shrimp, crabs, crayfish,
- scallops,
- apples,
- lettuce,
- potatoes, rice
- grapes,
- milk and dairy products.
Symptoms of arsenic poisoning may include:
- Gastrointestinal disorders: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea.
- Nerve symptoms: headache, dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, convulsions, paralysis.
- Cardiovascular system disorders: rapid heartbeat, arrhythmia, decreased or increased blood pressure
- General symptoms: sweating, pale skin, hyperthermia (increased body temperature), general weakness.
Note that in most cases the arsenic content in shrimp and other seafood is within safe limits, since it contents are controlled by regulators.
A study published by Consumer Reports found that brown and white rice had significantly higher concentrations of arsenic than other grains, as well as fruits and vegetables.
Among people consuming one serving of fish per week, arsenic levels were 7.4 percent higher than those who ate fish once a month. The main source of arsenic is dark meat fish (tuna, mackerel, salmon, sardine, swordfish).
Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.