Lets be honest, human history is cluttered with screw-ups of catastrophic proportion. In a list that would extend for miles, incorrect ideas about mercury is one that really stands out. Although it’s a natural element found in the earth’s crust, often in regions with volcanic activity, its natural status doesn’t mean it’s safe. In fact, it was previously thought to be a good and healthful substance. The first emperor of China was said to have taken mercury pills to give him eternal life. Instead the mercury pills destroyed his system and eventually he died. Years ago, hat makers used mercury to stiffen and form hats. This exposure lead to the high mortality rate of hat makers, but not before driving them mad.
Exposure to Mercury
Part of the reason mercury is extremely toxic is because it can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion or skin absorption. It’s bad stuff and is simply best avoided, though it is often used in thermometers, barometers, and other scientific equipment. Pollution into our environment has caused mercury to be found in seafood. [1] Previously, opinions existed that removing the skin of seafood may significantly reduce the exposure to mercury but other research has found this not to be the case. [2] Read more
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