A metallic element extracted from the ore bauxite.
A light metallic element. It occurs in bauxite and other minerals and its compounds are found in low concentration in the body. Their function, if any, is unknown but they are believed to be harmful. Aluminium hydroxide is, however, a safe, slow-acting substance that is widely used in the treatment of indigestion, gastric ulcers and oesophagitis, acting as an antacid. Other ingested sources of aluminium include cooking utensils, kitchen foil and some cooking and food additives. Most aluminium is excreted; the rest is deposited in the brain, liver, lungs and thyroid gland. Prolonged use of aluminium-based antacids can cause loss of appetite, tiredness and weakness. It has been suggested that Alzheimer’s disease is more common in areas with water which contains a high concentration of the element, but this issue is controversial.
Aluminium, a lightweight and metallic element, can be found in bauxite and several other minerals. Aluminium compounds play a role in antacid medications as well as antiperspirants.
The majority of the aluminum that enters the body is eliminated through excretion. However, excessive quantities of aluminum can be toxic and accumulate in the lungs, brain, liver, and thyroid gland, potentially causing damage to these organs.
Specific industrial processes release airborne fumes containing aluminum. Inhaling these fumes can lead to lung tissue fibrosis. It is important to note that medications containing aluminum can disrupt the absorption and excretion of various other drugs, and therefore, simultaneous intake should be avoided.