Researchers studied 3,875 young American adults ages 20 to 32 for a period of 18 years (1987 to 2005) in order to evaluate whether mercury exposure would lead to diabetes.

Baseline mercury levels were measured and diabetes was identified by measuring glucose levels, oral glucose tolerance tests, and/or hemoglobin A1C levels.

According to a report in the June 2013 issue of the journal Diabetes Care, the scientists found that toenail mercury levels were associated with an increased incidence of diabetes.

Compared to the lowest quintile of mercury levels, those with the highest mercury levels had a 65 percent greater risk of developing diabetes.

The authors summarized their findings by writing, “People with high mercury exposure in young adulthood may have elevated risk of diabetes.”

Nearly every patient who comes to my office gets a hair analysis, which is an inexpensive way to assess mineral and heavy metal levels. Elevated mercury levels are present in more than 70 percent of patients.

Mercury is the third most toxic element known to mankind. It poisons hundreds of enzymes in the body and is a known neurotoxin. It can also damage pancreatic islet beta cells, where insulin is produced.

The two most common causes of mercury exposure are dental amalgam fillings and consuming fish or seafood.

Another source is vaccines, particularly the flu shot. It is ludicrous for dentists to put mercury in our mouths or for physicians to inject mercury from vaccines into any living being.

Do not accept any vaccines that contain mercury. If you do get a flu shot, make sure it is mercury-free.

Avoid eating high mercury-containing fish, including tuna and swordfish.

Finally, have your mercury levels assessed by a healthcare provider who is knowledgeable about it. He or she can help you set up a mercury detoxification program.