Cadmium

cadmiumCadmium

Chemically stable – Permanently damaging

 

 

Cadmium and cadmium compounds are poisonous and even cancer causing. The poisonous effects resemble those of lead and quicksilver. In the food chain a relatively high concentration of cadmium can be found.

Cadmium usage in Germany amounts to 600 tonnes per year for NiCad batteries alone.

 

What does it affect?

Continued cadmium exposure can lead to kidney damage, blood diseases, liver-, bone-marrow-, nerve- and brain-damage, and under certain circumstances even bone changes (Itai-Itai disease). In aquatic organisms whose life is centred around the water (fish, amphibians, aquatic plants) high concentrations of cadmium inhibit growth. Cadmium dust also causes headaches, respiratory illnesses etc.

 

Where does it come from?

Vegetables, offal, fish, algaes and fungi. In batteries, paints and synthetic materials (plastics). Cadmium salts heavily pollute water and poison the environment even in very small amounts. Airborne emissions stem from fossil fuel burning (predominantly coal), especially in the power plant sector, and the metal and paint production industries.

Positives. The use of cadmium compounds as colour pigments and stabilisers in the production of plastics has sharply declined. Colourful childrens toys often used to contain cadmium.

Before using supplements such as orthomolecular medicines, advice should be sought from a physician or pharmacist who is well-informed about orthomolecular treatments. Information provided here is not intended to give or represent a medical diagnosis or treatment plan.

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