**Santa Fe Soil: Yard Zinc Crashing Summer Livers?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe air in Santa Fe shimmers with a unique light, a quality that has drawn artists and healers for centuries. But beneath the surface of this enchanting city, a hidden danger lurks, particularly during the scorching summer months: zinc contamination. It’s time we connect the dots between Santa Fe’s history, its soil, and the unexplained spike in liver complaints we see every year.
Santa Fe’s history is intertwined with mining and smelting. These activities, especially prevalent in the 19th and early 20th centuries, left a legacy of heavy metal contamination in the soil, with zinc being a primary culprit. This isn’t just a theoretical concern; it’s a real and present danger, especially for those living near former industrial sites.
The problem is exacerbated by Santa Fe’s climate. The dry, windy conditions can easily disperse contaminated soil particles, and summer monsoons can wash these toxins into gardens and water sources. This creates a perfect storm for zinc exposure, potentially leading to liver stress and other health issues.
So, what can you do to protect yourself and your family? The first step is to understand the potential for contamination on your property.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to identifying potential zinc contamination in your Santa Fe yard:
Research your property’s history: Check historical maps and records at the Santa Fe County Clerk’s office or online resources. Look for evidence of past mining, smelting, or industrial activities nearby. Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps are particularly useful.
Observe your surroundings: Are there any visible signs of industrial waste, such as slag heaps or discolored soil? Are you located near a former mine or smelter site? Even if the site is now a park or residential area, contamination may still be present.
Pay attention to plant health: Zinc toxicity can manifest as stunted growth, yellowing leaves (chlorosis), or even plant death. If you notice these symptoms in your garden, it could be a sign of soil contamination.
Consider the age of your home: Older homes may have been built on or near contaminated sites. Even if the original source of contamination is gone, the soil may still contain elevated levels of zinc.
Once you’ve assessed the potential risk, the next step is to get your soil tested.
Here’s how to get your soil tested for zinc in Santa Fe, New Mexico, using the New Mexico State University (NMSU) Soil, Water, and Air Testing Laboratory:
Collect soil samples: Use a clean trowel or shovel to collect samples from various locations in your yard, focusing on areas where you grow food or where children play. Take samples from a depth of 6-8 inches. Mix the samples together in a clean bucket to create a composite sample.
Prepare the sample: Remove any rocks, roots, or debris from the composite sample. Allow the soil to air dry completely.
Contact the NMSU lab: Visit the NMSU Soil, Water, and Air Testing Laboratory website or call them to request a soil testing kit and instructions. The kit will include a sample bag, a submission form, and instructions on how to properly package and ship your sample.
Complete the submission form: Fill out the submission form with accurate information about your property and the types of tests you want to run. Be sure to request a heavy metal analysis, specifically for zinc.
Send in your sample: Package your soil sample according to the lab’s instructions and ship it to the NMSU Soil, Water, and Air Testing Laboratory.
Interpret the results: Once you receive your soil test results, carefully review the report. The report will indicate the concentration of zinc in your soil, typically measured in parts per million (ppm). Compare the results to the NMSU’s recommended levels for different land uses. If the zinc levels are elevated, consult with a soil remediation specialist or a local agricultural extension agent for advice on how to reduce the contamination.
Understanding your soil test results is crucial. NMSU provides guidelines for acceptable zinc levels, but it’s important to remember that these are general recommendations. The ideal level for your property will depend on your specific land use and the sensitivity of the plants you’re growing.
If your soil test reveals elevated zinc levels, don’t panic. There are several options for remediation, ranging from simple strategies like adding organic matter to more complex techniques like soil replacement.
However, remediation can be expensive and time-consuming. In the meantime, it’s important to focus on minimizing your exposure to zinc. This includes:
- Washing your hands thoroughly after working in the garden.
- Peeling root vegetables grown in contaminated soil.
- Using raised garden beds with clean soil.
- Preventing children from playing in areas with high zinc levels.
But what if you suspect you’ve already been exposed to elevated levels of zinc? This is where chelation therapy comes in.
Chelation therapy involves using medications to bind to heavy metals in the body, allowing them to be excreted through urine. While chelation therapy can be effective, it’s not without risks. It’s crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare provider experienced in heavy metal detoxification before considering this treatment.
Finding a doctor in Santa Fe experienced in chelation therapy requires careful research. Look for practitioners who are board-certified in environmental medicine or integrative medicine. The American College for Advancement in Medicine (ACAM) is a good resource for finding qualified chelation therapists.
It’s also important to support your liver’s natural detoxification processes through dietary changes. The Southwest offers a unique array of liver-supporting foods.
Here are some dietary recommendations specific to the Southwest that can help support liver health:
Artichokes: While not native, artichokes thrive in some parts of New Mexico and are excellent for stimulating bile production, which aids in detoxification. Look for locally grown artichokes at farmers’ markets during the spring and fall.
Dandelion greens: Dandelions are abundant in Santa Fe and their greens are a potent liver tonic. Harvest them from areas that are unlikely to be contaminated with pesticides or heavy metals.
Chile peppers: While spicy foods are sometimes discouraged for liver issues, moderate consumption of chile peppers can actually support liver function by increasing circulation and promoting detoxification. Choose milder varieties like Anaheim or Poblano if you’re concerned about irritation.
Prickly pear fruit (tuna): This desert fruit is rich in antioxidants and has been shown to protect the liver from damage. Look for prickly pear products like jams, jellies, and juices at local markets.
Herbal teas: Traditional Southwestern herbs like yerba mansa and osha have liver-protective properties. Consult with a local herbalist for guidance on using these herbs safely and effectively.
Avoid processed foods and alcohol: These can put extra stress on the liver.
It’s important to remember that this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you’re concerned about zinc exposure or liver health, consult with a qualified healthcare provider.
The potential link between zinc contamination and liver issues in Santa Fe is a complex issue that requires further research. However, by taking proactive steps to assess your risk, test your soil, and support your liver health, you can protect yourself and your family from the potential dangers of heavy metal exposure. Let’s work together to ensure that Santa Fe remains a healthy and vibrant place to live for generations to come.