Aluminum Exposure: What Science Reveals About Its Hidden Effects on the Brain

Aluminum is nearly impossible to avoid. It appears in tap water, packaged and processed foods (even infant formula), cookware, cosmetics, and even the air we breathe. While some studies have classified aluminum as a potential carcinogen, others continue to debate whether it should also be officially labeled as a neurotoxin. Despite these discussions, decades of scientific evidence paint a concerning picture.

For more than 50 years, research has consistently shown that aluminum exposure can contribute to the development of neurofibrillary tangles—the same twisted proteins found in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease. These tangles disrupt communication between neurons and gradually impair memory, thinking, and overall cognitive function.

One of the most troubling aspects is how efficiently aluminum enters the body. Whether inhaled, applied topically, or ingested, aluminum can find its way into the bloodstream. From there, it travels through the body’s iron transport system, bypassing protective barriers that normally keep harmful substances out of the brain. Although the digestive system is able to eliminate a large portion of ingested aluminum, a small amount still accumulates over time—especially in tissues with slow cellular turnover, such as the brain, bones, and heart.

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Dangers of Aluminum Toxicity

Given its widespread presence and ability to accumulate, it’s not surprising that aluminum has been linked to numerous neurological and autoimmune disorders. These include:

• Alzheimer’s disease

• Parkinson’s disease

• Multiple sclerosis (MS)

• Chronic fatigue syndrome

• Certain autoimmune conditions

Researchers have even suggested that aluminum exposure may play a role in developmental and learning disorders such as autism, though this connection is still actively debated in the scientific community.

Because Alzheimer’s disease currently has no medical cure, researchers continue searching for interventions that can help manage or slow the progression of symptoms. Interestingly, one of the most unexpected discoveries involves something incredibly simple: mineral water.

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Silica-Rich Mineral Water as a Detox Method

Silica, a naturally occurring mineral found in many types of mineral water, has been shown to reduce the body’s absorption of aluminum. Studies suggest that consuming as little as 10 mg of silica per day can decrease aluminum uptake in the gut, encourage its removal through urine, and protect against some of aluminum’s harmful effects.

A notable study led by Professor Christopher Exley from Keele University explored how silica-rich water could help individuals with Alzheimer’s. In the 13-week study, 15 participants drank one liter of silica-rich Malaysian mineral water called Spritzer daily.

The results were remarkable:

• Aluminum levels in participants dropped by up to 70%

• Cognitive decline slowed significantly

• Three participants actually experienced measurable improvements in mental function

“All the aluminum in the body is drawn into the bloodstream and excreted in the urine when drinking silica-rich water,” Professor Exley explained. “The most interesting finding was the potential link between aluminum removal and cognitive improvements.”

The mineral water used in the study contained 35 mg of silica per liter, which can be difficult to find in North America. However, similar brands include:

• Volvic – 20 mg/liter

• Fiji Water – 45 mg/liter

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Foods Naturally High in Silica

If silica-rich mineral water is unavailable, you can increase silica intake through whole foods:

• Oats (100g) – 595 mg

• Millet (100g) – 500 mg

• Barley (100g) – 233 mg

• Potatoes (100g) – 200 mg

• Jerusalem artichokes (100g) – 36 mg

• Red beets (100g) – 21 mg

• Asparagus (100g) – 18 mg

• Banana (250g) – 13.6 mg

• Cooked green beans (250g) – 6.1 mg

• Raw carrots (200g) – 4.58 mg

• Brown rice (200g) – 4.14 mg

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Quick Facts About Silica

• Silica is short for silicon dioxide.

• It is a natural substance found in soil, plants, and water.

• It should not be confused with silicone, a man-made industrial material often used in medical implants.

• Silica supports healthy cartilage, joints, hair, skin, and nails.

• The body needs silica to produce collagen, the connective tissue essential for skin elasticity and structural integrity.

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Turmeric for Protection

In addition to silica, curcumin—the active compound in turmeric—may offer protective benefits. Curcumin helps shield the brain from aluminum-induced oxidative stress, reduces inflammation, and has been shown to decrease beta-amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Some studies also indicate that turmeric can modestly improve memory and cognitive function in Alzheimer’s patients.

A simple way to incorporate turmeric is to mix 1 teaspoon into a glass of mineral water or enjoy a warm cup of golden milk each evening.