Aluminum has been a controversial topic as of late, but why? Here we explore the harmful effects of aluminum, but first why it’s found in everyday consumer  products including toothpaste containers.

What is aluminum?

Aluminum is the most common metal found in the earth’s crust, but doesn’t occur as a metal in its natural state. To manufacture aluminum for everyday use, it’s processed in two phases.

First bauxite (a clay like soil and the world’s main source of aluminum) is mined and chemically refined to produce aluminum oxide (alumina). The alumina then goes through a smelting treatment (the extraction of metal from its ore by a method involving heating and melting) to release pure aluminum.

How and why is it used?

The lightweight yet durable characteristics of aluminum make it useful for a wide range of applications. The easily workable material is also corrosion resistant and recyclable. Because of this, many foods, beverages and personal care products (like toothpaste) in the US are sold in aluminum packaging, especially because it helps prevent contamination.But, there have been rising concerns about our exposure to aluminum and for good reasons. 

The Dangers of Aluminum Toxicity 

As with other elements aluminum is absorbed through the bloodstream, but it also accumulates and robs the body of essential nutrients. This can be extremely dangerous since aluminum toxicity has been linked to all sorts of illnesses. 

Brain and bone disease caused by high levels aluminum in the body have been found in children and adults with kidney disease. Since their bodies cannot properly remove aluminum through urine, there is an increase in aluminum. One of the mentioned brain diseases could actually be Alzheimer's. 

For years, many experts have acknowledged a connection between Alzheimer's disease and aluminum, but since there was no proof there has been no agreement in the scientific community. However, a new study recently published in the Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology may provide the proof of aluminum's role in the disease. 

Researchers discovered high levels of aluminum in the brains of individuals, diagnosed with an early-onset form of sporadic (usually late onset) Alzheimer’s disease. This means that Alzheimer’s has a much earlier age of onset, for example, fifties or early sixties, in individuals who have been exposed to unusually high levels of aluminum in their everyday lives.

Avoiding Aluminum 

As a suggestion, we believe in taking all possible precautions to reduce the accumulation of aluminum in our bodies through everyday activities. It's now easier to avoid aluminum than ever before, by selecting items that proudly disclose their aluminum-free packaging such as the Dr. Brite Whitening Mineral Toothpaste. To ensure the safety of our consumers, their families and our planet, Dr. Brite packaging is recyclable, BPA-free and made without toxic chemicals.

Additional reading: Dr. Brite Eco-Friendly Initiatives 

FAQs

1. Are aluminum tubes for toothpaste safe?

Like other elements, aluminum is absorbed through the bloodstream, but it also accumulates in the body and depletes the body of vital nutrients. Aluminum poisoning has been linked to a variety of illnesses, making it potentially fatal.

2. Is there aluminum in toothpaste?

Among the abrasives present in toothpaste are aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)3), calcium carbonate (CaCO3), calcium hydrogen phosphates, silica, zeolites, and hydroxyapatite (Ca5(PO4)3OH) that are bad for tooth structure.

3. Why is aluminum hydroxide in toothpaste?

Aluminum hydroxide has a wide range of uses. As a buffer, it prevents toothpaste from becoming too acidic. Due to its naturally white color, it is often used as a colorant. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved aluminum hydroxide for use in medical devices and over-the-counter (OTC) medications.

4. What are the adverse effects of using aluminum toothpaste liners?

Aluminum, like other elements, is absorbed through the bloodstream, but it also accumulates in the body and depletes the body of important nutrients. Aluminum poisoning has been linked to a variety of ailments, making it potentially lethal.

Aluminum in the bloodstream can cause brain and bone disease in children and adults with kidney disease. Aluminum levels in their urine increase because their systems are unable to adequately eliminate metal through urine. 

5. Can you get Alzheimer's from aluminum?

Despite the fact that aluminum has been found in amyloid plaques, there is no conclusive evidence that aluminum levels in the brains of Alzheimer's patients are elevated. Aluminum in the body or exposure to aluminum have not been shown to be associated with Alzheimer's disease in humans.

6. How does Aluminum affect the human body?

In most cases, aluminum exposure through the mouth is safe. However, other research have not shown this. Some published studies indicate that persons who are exposed to high quantities of aluminum may acquire Alzheimer's disease. Aluminum's potential link to Alzheimer's disease is unknown.

7. What are signs of aluminum toxicity?

People with aluminum acute toxicity may have:

• Confusion.
• Muscle sluggishness
• Bones that ache, alter in form, or fracture.
• Seizures.
• Speech issues.
• Small growth (in children)

8. How long does it take to get aluminum out of your body?

Your body may need up to 30 days to completely detox from aluminum. Expect a two to four week changeover period. Depending on the chemistry of your body, each step could differ. Your body will undoubtedly become addicted on antiperspirant if you have been taking it since you were a teenager.

9. How does aluminum affect the brain?

Aluminum will exacerbate neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and multiple sclerosis in the brain. There is currently a definite need for therapy or medication that could reduce the amount of aluminum in the body, especially in the brain.