What are the consequences of nickel in our body?

Nickel acts within the body in many chemical reactions. It plays a role in carbohydrate metabolism and regulates the pancreas. It allows, for example, to fight against overweight and small cravings, but also to facilitate difficult digestion. It promotes the absorption of iron and protects nucleic acids. It also has a hypotensive action, that is to say, it lowers the blood pressure.

But in recent years, nickel is known as an important food allergen. The allergy is marked by red spots, dry skin or itching. People with an allergy to nickel touch dermatitis should limit their dietary absorption.

Foods rich in nickel?

Chocolate is one of the richest foods in nickel, but so are dried fruits and vegetables, like peas, parsley or cashews. Scientific studies claim that cooking in a stainless steel container is also a source of nickel.

Our body contains very little nickel, about 500 micrograms. Compared to other trace elements, we therefore need little: 0.2 to 0.5 mg per day. A healthy and balanced diet largely covers these needs. If deficiencies are extremely rare, it is advisable to exceed an intake of 600 micrograms per day.