Aluminum

Type: Mineral
Periodic Element: (Al)
RDA: None listed
Importance- To Body:
Generally considered hazardous or detrimental biologically. Aluminium increases estrogen-related gene expression in human breast cancer cells cultured in the laboratory. The estrogen-like effects of these salts have led to their classification as metalloestrogens.
Distribution- In Body:
In very high doses, aluminium is associated with altered function of the blood–brain barrier. Consumption of acidic foods or liquids with aluminium enhances aluminium absorption, and maltol has been shown to increase the accumulation of aluminium in nerve and bone tissues.
Excess Effects:
Some People experience allergic reactions to aluminium and experience contact dermatitis, digestive disorders, vomiting or other symptoms upon contact or ingestion of products containing aluminium such as antiperspirants and antacids.
Otherwise, there is evidence of some toxicity if it is consumed in amounts greater than 40 mg/day per kg of body mass. Excessive consumption of antacids containing aluminium compounds and excessive use of aluminium-containing antiperspirants provide more significant exposure levels.
Exposure to powdered aluminium or aluminium welding fumes can cause pulmonary fibrosis.
Deficiency Effects:
None listed
Sources Food:
Some studies point to risks associated with increased exposure to the metal. Aluminium in food may be absorbed more than aluminium from water.
Sources Environmental/Geographic:
(OSHA) has set a permissible exposure limit of 15 mg/m3 time weighted average (TWA) for total exposure and 5 mg/m3 TWA for respiratory exposure. The US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommended exposure limit is the same for respiratory exposure but is 10 mg/m3 for total exposure, and 5 mg/m3 for fumes and powder.
Supplement Information:
Research correlating Aluminum as a factor in Alzheimer’s is inconclusive; aluminium accumulation may be a consequence of the disease rather than a causal agent.