Naturally occurring Cs can be found in a stable form. Radioactive Cs is produced by the fission of uranium in fuel elements, usually near nuclear power plants. These are unstable but eventually become stable through radioactive decay. Some Cs can be found in air, water, and soil (and thereby food) based on location near nuclear plants.
Higher levels of vitamin D (25(OH)D3) have been linked to enhanced absorption of radioactive isotopes like cesium. Cs and potassium compete for uptake and cell membrane potential.
Cs acts like potassium, entering cells and altering electrical charges. It has a higher distribution in the kidneys, skeletal muscle, liver, and RBC’s. In RBC's it decreases their ability to release oxygen in tissues. Additionally, the acute effects of Cs on cardiac tissues consists of membrane potential changes due the interaction within the electrical current and channel pore, causing dysrhythmia. It is usually excreted by the kidney, but also in feces.
References:
ATSDR. Public Health Statement for Cesium. Toxic Substances Portal - Cesium 2015; https://wwwn.cdc.gov/TSP/PHS/PHS.aspx?phsid=575&toxid=107
Melnikov P, Zanoni LZ. Clinical effects of cesium intake. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2010 Jun;135(1-3):1-9. doi: 10.1007/s12011-009-8486-7. Epub 2009 Aug 5. PMID: 19655100.
Schwalfenberg GK, Genuis SJ. Vitamin D, Essential Minerals, and Toxic Elements: Exploring Interactions between Nutrients and Toxicants in Clinical Medicine. ScientificWorldJournal. 2015;2015:318595. doi: 10.1155/2015/318595. Epub 2015 Jul 29. PMID: 26347061; PMCID: PMC4539504.
Every lab result you’ve ever had, charted and explained.
Healthmatters is a tracker for your lab results. Upload a report from any lab, any country — every marker charted and explained.
Start with my report →All our content is backed by peer-reviewed studies, academic research, and trusted medical sources. We’re committed to accuracy and transparency — see our editorial policy for details.