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Health Effects of Aluminum Cookware

Food or drink prepared in plain aluminum cookware can draw out and absorb aluminum under certain conditions. Tomatoes, citrus and other acidic foods, as well as food and drink that sits in an aluminum pan for an extended time, are the main culprits. This has become a concern because of the possible effects of aluminum on health.

  1. Alzheimer's Disease

    • Aluminum might play a role in the development of Alzheimer's disease, but the evidence is unconvincing, according to the Alzheimer's Society. The theory began after two studies in the April 24, 1965 issue of the Journal of Neuropathology and Experimental Pathology found a possible association. The Alzheimer's Society notes that this connection has not been proven. Additionally, the society notes that a 1988 study in the journal Food and Chemical Toxicology found no link between Alzheimer's and other sources of ingested aluminum, such as tea. However, this has not stopped aluminum cookware from becoming a suspect source of trouble.

    Phosphorus Depletion

    • Chronic intake of aluminum can make phosphorus absorption difficult. This results in hypophosphatemia, which is a low level of phosphorus in the blood. Hypophosphatemia's symptoms include anemia and heart muscle damage. While antacids are the aluminum source implicated in hypophosphatemia, Dr. Andrew Weil says he "generally advise[s] against allowing food to contact aluminum during cooking," in case the amount of aluminum from the cookware is enough over time to affect phosphorus levels.

    Osteoporosis

    • Dr. Weil also notes that aluminum's possible effect on calcium levels and bone strength is another reason to be cautious about using aluminum pans. Aluminum is a possible risk factor for osteoporosis, according to the Mayo Clinic. The source the clinic mentions is again antacids, but the aluminum absorbed by food would in theory add to your cumulative exposure.

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