Aluminum toxicity - symptoms and impact on our health
Kacper Nowak
2026-03-23
4 min. read
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Aluminum, also referred to as clay, is the third most widespread element after oxygen and silicon, constituting 8% of the earth's crust. In the natural environment, it occurs in a stable form, mainly as oxides or clay crystals. In the soil, clay is a component of insoluble chemical compounds, with only 0,1% of the total aluminum forming soluble forms.
Poisoning with clay
The estimated weekly intake of clay by humans ranges from 14 to 280 mg. It is present in various food products, including milk, yogurt, processed cheeses, jams, jellies, flour, sugar, baking powder, preservatives, and grains. Additionally, tea and spices such as parsley, basil, and black pepper contain even higher levels of clay. The storage method is also significant, as acidic foods (e.g., milk or beer) can absorb clay from aluminum packaging, with concentrations increasing over time. Clay is also utilized in the production of wood preservatives, glass, ceramics, medications, household items, and cosmetics, including deodorants.
Aluminum toxicity - symptoms and effects
Scientific research confirms that aluminum adversely affects human cognitive functions. The accumulation of this element in the brain leads to severe disorders such as memory loss, speech impairments, movement coordination issues, muscle tremors, and paralysis. Furthermore, the accumulation of aluminum in the body increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease. These disorders are associated with excessive aluminum accumulation in the hippocampus, which is responsible for learning and memory processes. Animal experiments have shown that aluminum is harmful to the reproductive system. In studies on rats, it was found that a 120-day exposure to aluminum reduces the production of estrogen, progesterone, LH, and FSH while increasing testosterone levels. Additionally, prenatal exposure to aluminum in rats results in lower birth weight and delayed sexual maturation.
Aluminium and its effects on human health
Aluminium is poorly absorbed by the human body - more than 95% of this element that enters the body is excreted by the kidneys. However, in cases of kidney dysfunction, it can accumulate in the body. Age also plays a role - as we age, more aluminium accumulates in our tissues. The distribution of aluminium in the body depends on the dose and duration of exposure. The method of absorption is also crucial - respiratory uptake is more efficient than absorption through the digestive system. Aluminium can migrate into food from aluminium packaging, and the longer the storage time, the higher the aluminium concentration. Even small amounts of aluminium can have significant health impacts. Aluminium has been classified as a metaloestrogen due to its ability to interact with estrogen receptors, potentially contributing to cancer development. Humans significantly increase aluminium levels in the environment through its widespread use in the automotive, electrical, and aerospace industries. Elevated concentrations of this element in soil and air are found near aluminium smelters and waste disposal sites linked to lignite combustion. Its presence in the air can also be attributed to natural environmental factors such as rock weathering or volcanic eruptions. Aluminium is present in many aspects of our lives, but we can mitigate its effects. We can choose less contaminated products, such as milk in glass bottles instead of cartons, and limit the use of aluminium-containing antiperspirants. By making conscious choices, we can reduce aluminium absorption and thus minimize its negative impact on health.
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