Nickel

Chemical formula/structure

Ni,

Natural Sources of this nutrient in foods

Nickel can be found in foods such as chocolate, soy beans, nuts, and oatmeal; also found in some leafy vegetables. Nickel is also found in much of our drinking water.

How it is used by the body

Research shows that nickel is in the human blood stream and tissue at consistent levels. This gives nickel the possibility to a significant role in a person’s DNA and RNA. There has not been extensive research, but it is presumed that nickel is important the modulation of the immune system and brain development. Nickel can enter the body through the respiratory system and also through the skin. Nickel found in the air enters the body, the smaller particles can get into the lungs, while the bigger particles do not get passed the nose. Nickel enters the bloodstream when the skin is exposed to nickel.

Effects if this Nutrient is not present

The effects of nickel deficiency have not been extensively researched, but since it is found in brain tissue and the immune system, therefore it is assumed that nickel deficiency could cause developmental problems. However, there are many negative effects of high nickel levels. Many construction workers are exposed to nickel while they work with metals, and some dangerously high levels of nickel have been associated with lung diseases and cancer. Nickel also effects the skin, many people have allergic reactions to nickel and they contact rashes.

http://www.eco-usa.net/toxics/nickel.shtml

http://www.nsc.org/library/chemical/Nickel.htm

http://www.diet-and-health.net/articles.php?cont=minerals

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