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- 12 Seemingly Healthy Foods To Stop Eating In 2025 Because They Can Contain ‘High Levels’ Of Heavy Metals: Protein Powders, Rice, More (shefinds.com)
Healthy eating is key to a healthy life, but some healthy foods can contain surprisingly high levels of heavy metals. Experts warn that consuming too much mercury, arsenic, and cadmium can lead to a toxic buildup in our bodies.
Registered nutritionist Catherine Gervacio and healthcare consultant Dr. Claudia Cometa caution that while small amounts of these metals aren’t immediately harmful, long-term exposure can cause digestive problems, weakened bones, and even increase the risk of some cancers.
Dr. Cometa adds that heavy metal toxicity can also cause neurological issues like tingling and numbness, nausea and vomiting, and even brain fog.
So, which healthy foods should we be mindful of? Tuna, protein powder, and seaweed are among the top offenders.
Studies have shown that some protein powders contain unsafe levels of lead and other heavy metals, with plant-based versions often having higher levels than whey-based ones.
Rice, especially brown rice, can contain arsenic. Leafy greens like spinach and lettuce can absorb heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and arsenic from contaminated soil and water.
Certain fish, such as yellowtail, swordfish, and tuna, are known to accumulate mercury. Tuna, in particular, can contain high levels, especially if harvested from polluted waters.
Mushrooms, including popular varieties like porcini, oyster, and shiitake, can absorb heavy metals from the soil where they grow. Similarly, nuts can be exposed to heavy metals through soil, air, and water.
Dark chocolate, while packed with antioxidants, can contain cadmium absorbed by cocoa beans during their growth. Seaweed, another health food favorite, can accumulate mercury, arsenic, and cadmium from the ocean.
Even sweet potatoes, often seen as a healthy alternative to regular potatoes, can be prone to heavy metal accumulation. Choosing organic options is always a good idea.