Arsenic Interactions Overview

Arsenic is a trace element naturally present in the diet, with organic forms being generally non-toxic in low amounts, while inorganic forms can be harmful. It is found in foods such as seafood, poultry, grains (especially rice), bread, cereal products, mushrooms, and dairy. The estimated daily intake of organic arsenic is 12-50 mcg, with a suggested requirement of 12-25 mcg daily, while inorganic arsenic intake is estimated at 3.5-10 mcg daily. Arsenic plays a potential role in metabolism, the recycling of methionine, taurine function, and the regulation of gene expression in the body. In traditional Chinese medicine, arsenic has been used to treat various inflammatory disorders, but it is generally only found in homeopathic preparations.