Understanding Arsenic: Normal vs Optimal Ranges

?What is Arsenic?

Arsenic is a toxic metalloid with both organic (naturally occurring in seafood, largely non-toxic) and inorganic (toxic) forms. The primary route of toxic exposure is contaminated groundwater — which affects millions of people globally. Inorganic arsenic is a human carcinogen.

!Why It Matters

Chronic arsenic exposure causes hyperkeratosis (thickened skin), pigmentation changes, peripheral neuropathy, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and significantly increased cancer risk (skin, bladder, lung). In India, groundwater contamination with arsenic is a major public health emergency, particularly in West Bengal, Bihar, Assam, and parts of Uttar Pradesh.

Reference Ranges

Lab normal ranges may vary between laboratories. Optimal and longevity targets are based on research literature and should be interpreted with your physician.

Symptoms of Imbalance

• Skin changes: hyperpigmentation, keratosis, Mees' lines on fingernails
• Neuropathy, weakness, gastrointestinal symptoms
• Chronic exposure: increased cancer risk

How to Improve Your Levels

• 1Test and purify drinking water if arsenic contamination is suspected
• 2Use filtered or bottled water in high-risk areas
• 3Selenium supplementation may offer some protective effects
• 4Chelation therapy for acute high-level exposure

When to Test

Anyone using well water or groundwater in areas known for arsenic contamination, or with unexplained skin changes or neuropathy.

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