Mercury is a toxic heavy metal that can accumulate in the body and cause various health problems. It is commonly found in seafood, dental fillings, and industrial pollution. Once mercury enters the body, it can be absorbed into the bloodstream and eventually reach the gut, causing damage to the digestive system and overall health. However, recent research suggests that probiotics could play a vital role in detoxifying mercury from the gut.
Probiotics May Help Detoxify Mercury in the Gut
The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiota. Probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria found in certain foods or as supplements, may play a crucial role in detoxifying mercury in the gut. In addition to blocking harmful heavy metals like mercury, probiotics may also promote the absorption of essential minerals such as iron.
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How Mercury Affects the Gut Microbiota
Mercury exposure can disrupt the balance of the gut microbiota, leading to gut dysbiosis, inflammation, digestive problems, and weakened immunity. Additionally, it can cause gut permeability, also known as ‘leaky gut syndrome’, which allows toxins and pathogens to enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to autoimmune reactions and chronic health conditions.
Mercury can also interfere with the gut’s ability to eliminate toxins and absorb nutrients, increasing the risk of chronic diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and cancer.
The good news is that there are ways to prevent and remove mercury from the body, with probiotics showing promising results in recent research.
How Probiotics May Help Detoxify Mercury
Probiotics have been shown to counteract the harmful effects of mercury on the gut microbiota by restoring the balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria, reducing inflammation, and improving gut function.
For instance, a study by researchers at Pennsylvania State University found that a probiotic supplement containing specific strains reduced the absorption of mercury in the gut and its accumulation in the liver.
“It’s a perfect probiotic for this because we have previously shown it works in humans, and now we are engineering it to make it even better,” said study lead Daniela Betancurt-Anzola. “It is inside the gut, it grabs the methylmercury, then it goes out.”
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Best Probiotics for Detoxifying Mercury
Not all probiotics are equally effective in detoxifying mercury. Some specific strains have been shown to be more effective, including Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Saccharomyces boulardii.
The ultimate goal is to apply this knowledge to detoxify all heavy metals, not just mercury.
“We are interested in studying how the entire microbial community reacts to different metals,” Betancurt-Anzola said.
The Bottom Line
Mercury exposure can have harmful effects on gut microbiota and overall health. Probiotics may help detoxify mercury in the gut by restoring the balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria, reducing inflammation, and improving gut function. Consider adding a high-quality probiotic supplement to your daily routine, after consulting with your healthcare provider.
Keep Reading: Leaky Gut: What is it? Is it real? And 11 Common Symptoms to Look Out For
We love Natural Factors Ultimate Multi Probiotic. Ultimate Multi Probiotic, a blend of 12 research-supported strains, supports intestinal and digestive health. Get your 30-day supply at The Health Shop for $50.73
Sources
- “A Probiotic Could Help Mitigate Mercury Absorption in the Gut.” ASM. June 18, 2023.
- “Influence of toxic metal exposure on the gut microbiota.” Spandidos. Federica Giambò, et al. February 2, 2021
- “Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis: Triggers, Consequences, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Options.” NCBI. Tomas Hrncir. March 2022.
- “Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG Treatment Improves Intestinal Permeability and Modulates Inflammatory Response and Homeostasis of Spleen and Colon in Experimental Model of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Pneumonia.” NCBI. Ludmila Khailova, et al. December 2018.
- “Comparing the Effects of Saccharomyces boulardii and Selenium-Enriched S. boulardii on Hematological Parameters and Total Antioxidant Capacity in Aluminum Induced Toxicity in Rats.” Brieflands. Shabnam Sadat Yaghchi, et al.
