What are Lead and Toxins?
Lead is a heavy metal element and like many others is toxic when ingested in sufficient quantities. A toxin is basically a substance that interferes with the body’s natural workings and can cause temporary/permanent loss of function in parts of the body. For example, alcohol could be classed as a toxin. In excessive quantities it can result in loss of liver function, gross morphological changes in the liver and portal hypertension. In many (often older) paints, lead is an ingredient. Old houses with lots of lead paint that is peeling away can cause health problems as the paint flakes are inhaled and ingested, and the lead damages cells of the body.
