Is Sushi Impacting Your Sexual Health? The Mercury Paradox Explained by Dr. Ivan Rusilko of Lifestyle Medicine
Mercury toxicity is an extensive health issue, manifesting symptoms across a broad spectrum of neurological and physical disorders, presenting a silent yet significant threat to overall health.
While mercury is commonly known for its presence in fish—a staple in diets worldwide—its sources are far-reaching, including industrial emissions, dental fillings, artisanal gold mining, and mercury-containing product disposal. These activities contribute to environmental contamination, impacting air, water, and soil quality, and consequently entering the human food chain.
The persistent nature of mercury and its accumulation in the environment have been well-documented in prestigious publications like the New England Journal of Medicine, illustrating the difficulty in avoiding exposure and the significant public health threat it poses globally.
Highlighting the severity, a study featured in The New York Times in February presented a hypothetical scenario where, despite strict mercury restrictions, it would still take 10 to 25 years to see a decline in oceanic mercury levels, with a longer timeframe for reductions in mercury content in fish like tuna.
Moreover, the impact of mercury contamination extends beyond health concerns. A recent case reported by AP News involved a Japanese court recognizing over 120 individuals as victims of the Minamata disease—a mercury poisoning incident from the past—mandating government and corporate compensation.
We spoke with Dr. Ivan Rusilko, founder of Lifestyle Medicine in Miami Beach, who has been vocal about the dangers of mercury for years.
Elite Travel: Today we are sitting here with Dr. Ivan Rusilko and we are going to talk about Mercury. One of my first questions for you is, why is mercury even on your radar?
Dr. Ivan Rusilko: The real question is why isn't mercury on every physician's radar? It's shocking how one of the most toxic substances to the human body is neither a significant part of medical education nor a common testing parameter for patients with ailments ranging from dementia to erectile dysfunction.
Typically, mercury concerns are only addressed in traditional medicine during pregnancy warnings against fish consumption.
Mercury can remain in your system for days, months, or even years depending on the type and location of deposition. If untreated, it becomes a chronic source of biological stress, predisposing individuals to a myriad of health issues.
In my practice, diagnostic testing shows approximately 80-85% of new patients exhibit symptomatic mercury levels, with about half suffering from diagnosed toxicity causing physical harm.
Elite Travel: What can high levels of mercury lead to?
Dr. Ivan Rusilko: Essentially, mercury toxicity can lead to numerous conditions. Similar to how anemia is a risk factor for many diseases, mercury toxicity is a constant stressor, disrupting cellular function and contributing to symptoms like lethargy, insomnia, ADD, anxiety, depression, weakness, and even erectile dysfunction.
When mercury levels become toxic, they can contribute to severe health issues like dementia, Parkinson's, autism, cancer, respiratory problems, and autoimmune disorders.
Elite Travel: Who is at risk for mercury toxicity?
Dr. Ivan Rusilko: Essentially, anyone could be at risk, particularly those with old-school metal dental fillings, which include mercury as a bonding agent. Despite reassurances from dental associations and the FDA, the potential health risks, especially to vulnerable groups, cannot be ignored.
Additionally, frequent consumers of certain fish, like tuna, salmon, and swordfish, which accumulate high mercury levels, are also at risk. This is exacerbated by the modern popularity of sushi, introducing significant mercury exposure to many diets.
Elite Travel: How do you treat high mercury toxicity?
Dr. Ivan Rusilko: Treatment involves a targeted approach using glutathione, a powerful antioxidant, administered intravenously along with specific oral chelating agents. This method has proven effective and safe in my 13 years of practice.
Patients must first eliminate the mercury source, which might mean removing dental fillings or reducing fish consumption. Adequate hydration, stress management, proper diet, and regular exercise are crucial during the detox period to facilitate the safe elimination of mercury from the body.
Elite Travel: Thank you so much. We appreciate your time today!
Dr. Ivan Rusilko: Thank you, it was great speaking with you. Remember, investing in your own health is your most crucial asset.
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