Ingesting bentonite clay is not generally recommended. While some people swear by it as a health remedy, its safety has not been confirmed. The clay can contain heavy metals and other impurities, and its safety for human consumption has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Furthermore, there have been reported cases of food poisoning due to ingestion of the clay. If you decide to take bentonite clay, be sure to get it from a reliable source and talk to your doctor to make sure it’s safe for you.
Additionally, never take more than the recommended dosage and avoid taking it long-term.
Is bentonite clay harmful if swallowed?
No, bentonite clay is not considered harmful if swallowed in small amounts, as long as it is ingested in a form that does not contain added ingredients. Bentonite clay is composed of aged volcanic ash and is rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron.
It can be ingested as a powder, either in capsule form or by mixing it with a liquid such as water or juice. When taken orally, bentonite clay acts like a magnet, which binds to toxins present in the digestive tract and removes them from the body.
It also helps to regulate the pH balance of the stomach, aids in digestion, helps balance gut bacteria, and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, bentonite clay poses a risk of choking if pieces of the clay become lodged in the throat, so the clay should be taken with plenty of water.
Ingesting large amounts of bentonite clay is not recommended and its ingestion should always be discussed with a medical professional before taking it.
How often should I take bentonite clay internally?
Since bentonite clay is a powerful absorbent, it is important to take it in moderation and as directed. Generally, it is best to start off with a low dosage of 1-2 teaspoons a day of bentonite clay, taken with plenty of water to ensure that it is diluted in the stomach.
It is recommended to take bentonite clay either one hour before or two hours after meals. It is advised to not take bentonite clay for more than a week or two at a time, and to give your body regular breaks, typically two weeks on and two weeks off.
Overall, when taking bentonite clay internally, it is important to keep track of how your body is reacting, and adjust the dosage and frequency of use based on how you feel. It is also recommended to talk to your healthcare provider before taking bentonite clay internally, as there is a risk of drug interactions.
What toxins does bentonite clay remove?
Bentonite clay is made up of aged volcanic ash often found in the soil in places like Wyoming, Fort Benton, Montana, and other parts of the world. This clay is known for its remarkable ability to absorb toxins, heavy metals, and impurities from the body.
Studies have shown that bentonite clay can effectively remove toxins such as lead and mercury from the digestive tract and lymphatic system in the body. It has also been found to be effective in removing hazardous chemicals such as fluoride, chlorine and other synthetic chemicals like BPA and PCBs from the body.
In addition, bentonite clay has been found to absorb pesticides and herbicides, as well as other harmful substances run-off from animal sources. Bentonite clay has the ability to reduce inflammation and remove unhealthy bacteria, molds, viruses, and fungi, while simultaneously providing the body with beneficial minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, and iron.
Is bentonite good for your liver?
Bentonite clay is considered to be a potentially effective aid for liver health. It’s thought to help remove toxins from the body, including the liver, and help stabilize the immune system. Laboratory studies have shown that bentonite may assist the liver in filtering out harmful substances from the body.
It is believed to help filter out heavy metals and other toxins in the gastrointestinal tract, helping to reduce their absorption. Animal studies suggest that bentonite can help protect the liver from damage as well as aiding in detoxification.
Additionally, bentonite may help to reduce inflammation, which can improve liver health. While more research is needed to confirm these purported benefits, consuming bentonite clay in moderation may help to support the health of your liver.
As always, it’s best to consult with your health care provider if you have any specific concerns or conditions before ingesting this clay.
Does bentonite clay Alkalize the body?
No, bentonite clay does not alkalize the body. However, it can be beneficial to the body because it contains a variety of minerals, including calcium, magnesium, silica, sodium, and potassium, which can help promote a healthy pH balance.
Additionally, bentonite clay can help to detoxify the body, as it has natural absorptive qualities that can bind with toxic substances in the body and help flush them out. Therefore, bentonite clay can be beneficial for overall health, but it does not directly alkalize the body.
What does bentonite do to your lungs?
Bentonite clay does not directly affect the lungs but can potentially help to improve respiratory function indirectly. Bentonite clay is composed of volcanic ash and is high in minerals such as magnesium and calcium.
When ingested, it helps to detoxify the body by drawing out toxins, heavy metals and other harmful substances. These toxins can accumulate in the body over time and cause a range of symptoms including difficulty breathing, chest tightness, coughing, and wheezing if not removed.
Regular ingestion of bentonite clay can therefore help to clear these toxins from the body and improve overall respiratory health. Additionally, bentonite can also act as an expectorant by thinning and increasing the flow of mucus, helping to relieve congestion, improve bronchial function, and possibly even reduce symptoms of asthma.
How toxic is bentonite?
Bentonite is generally considered non-toxic, although it may contain trace amounts of toxic metals such as lead, cadmium and chromium. However, bentonite is mostly composed of montmorillonite, a non-toxic, clay-like mineral that consists primarily of silicon, aluminum, oxygen, iron and magnesium.
Bentonite is used in a variety of applications, including as an absorbent and a weighted component in drilling muds, soil amendments, and animal feed. In addition, it can serve as a water source for livestock, a buffer to control water loss, and a deactivate for soil contaminants.
It is important to note that bentonite can be inhaled during dusting and can cause respiratory irritation, as well as skin and eye irritation in some cases. As a result, proper safety protocols should be utilized by those who are handling this material and respiratory protection should be worn.
Additionally, more research should be conducted to better understand the potentially harmful effects of bentonite dust on human health.
Can you get lead poisoning from bentonite clay?
No, it is not possible to get lead poisoning from bentonite clay. Bentonite clay is mined from naturally occurring volcanic ash, so it is highly unlikely that it would contain enough lead to be considered toxic.
Similarly, bentonite clay is not used in any industrial processes that could potentially introduce lead as an impurity.
Bentonite clay can, however, contain trace amounts of heavy metals, including lead, which is why it is important to research brands and ensure that the clay has been tested for purity. This can help minimize potential health risks associated with bentonite clay use, as well as ensure that the clay being used is safe for regular and long-term use.
Can your stomach digest clay?
No, your stomach is not able to digest clay. Your stomach is not able to break down the hard particles in clay, which means they will pass through your digestive tract without being digested. Clay particles can bind to other substances in your gastrointestinal tract and cause problems, such as nausea and constipation.
Additionally, some types of clay may contain small amounts of toxins, which can be dangerous if ingested. For these reasons, it is best to avoid eating clay.
What happens if you digest clay?
If you digest clay, it can lead to potentially severe health complications, depending on the type and amount of clay ingested. Clay can interfere with the absorption of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and proteins.
It can also block the digestive tract and may cause serious constipation and even life-threatening blockage of the enteric system, which consists of the digestive tract and associated organs. Long-term ingestion of clay can lead to mineral imbalances, weakening of bones and teeth, and even anemia due to inadequate absorption of iron.
Ingesting clay can also release harmful toxins such as arsenic and lead, which can cause serious central nervous system and organ damage. Heavy metal poisoning can lead to brain damage and death. Ingesting clay can also result in other gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting and abdominal pain.
Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention immediately if clay is ingested.
Can eating clay cause weight loss?
Eating clay for weight loss is a popular claim but there is no scientific evidence to back it up. It is not recommended because clay can have dangerous side effects. Clay can bind to essential minerals and nutrients making it impossible to be absorbed by the body, leading to mineral deficiencies and poor health.
Clay is also known to be contaminated with bacteria and can lead to things such as food poisoning. Clay can be dangerous if ingested, as it can block internal organs, cause constipation and dehydration.
Clay can also interfere with digestion, leading to further negative health consequences. Therefore, eating clay is not a safe or effective way to lose weight and is not recommended.
Do you take bentonite clay on an empty stomach?
There is a debate about whether or not one should take bentonite clay on an empty stomach. Some proponents say that taking it on an empty stomach allows the clay to bind more effectively to toxins in the body.
As a result, they suggest it could be more effective and efficient in removing toxins from the body. However, some studies have found that taking clay on an empty stomach, without any supplemental liquid, can reduce its efficacy.
It can create a concentrated “pill-like” effect due to the clay being able to bind more effectively without liquid. Some suggest taking bentonite clay with food, or with an additional liquid, such as water, juice, or a smoothie.
This allows for the clay to disburse more easily and be more tolerable to the digestive system. Ultimately, it is best for individuals to decide for themselves, in consultation with their healthcare provider, to determine what works best for them.
How much bentonite clay should I eat?
It is not recommended to eat bentonite clay as it may contain impurities, bacteria and other environmental toxins. Ingesting large amounts of bentonite can lead to the risk of gastrointestinal obstruction and toxicity.
On the surface, bentonite clay appears to be a healthy alternative, however it is important to recognize the potential risks if ingested.
The external application of bentonite clay, as a paste or mask, is generally considered safe as long as it is not left on for too long. The skin may become irritated if products with high concentrations of bentonite clay are used for extended periods of time.
Always take precautions when dealing with bentonite clay. Do not ingest it and read labels on any product that contains this substance. Additionally, make sure the source of the clay is reputable, and avoid purchasing it from unknown sources.
Can I take bentonite clay after eating?
Yes, you can take bentonite clay after eating. However, it is best to take bentonite clay on an empty stomach, and wait at least an hour after eating before taking it. This is because taking bentonite clay on a full stomach could interfere with the digestion and absorption of your food.
Additionally, some experts suggest that taking bentonite clay shortly after eating can cause it to bind to the food particles, rather than the toxins and other products it is meant to help eliminate.
Therefore, it is generally recommended that you wait at least an hour after eating before taking bentonite clay.
