Blood Cadmium
Other marker
Cadmium
Blood Cadmium
Measures cadmium exposure in whole blood, reflecting relatively recent and ongoing exposure. Cadmium is a toxic heavy metal that accumulates in the kidneys and bones over decades and is strongly associated with cigarette smoke and some contaminated foods and supplements.
PED Notes
Cadmium is not produced by AAS, GH, or peptides, but it is a contamination and lifestyle concern for enhanced athletes. Smoking is by far the biggest driver: smokers typically run several times higher than non-smokers. Some untested supplements (certain plant-based proteins, greens powders, cocoa and shellfish-derived products) and low-quality UGL products can also contribute. Because cadmium concentrates in and damages the kidneys over time, and PED users already stress the kidneys (high protein, high blood pressure, high muscle mass affecting creatinine), keeping cadmium exposure low is sensible harm reduction. A low value is normal; only high values are meaningful. The bodybuilder range equals the standard range.
When high
When elevated (>45 nmol/L; note smokers run higher):
- A raised blood cadmium reflects ongoing exposure, most commonly cigarette or vape smoke, occupational exposure, or contaminated food and supplements.
- What to do:
- Stop smoking/vaping; this is the single most effective way to lower cadmium over time.
- Review supplement quality: favour third-party heavy-metal-tested products and be cautious with unbranded plant-protein and greens powders and UGL products.
- Ensure adequate iron, zinc, and calcium status, since deficiencies increase intestinal cadmium absorption.
- Monitor kidney function (eGFR, cystatin C, urine albumin) because the kidney is the main target organ; seek medical or toxicology review for markedly high or symptomatic levels.
History Chart
Reading History
Frequently Asked Questions
Reference Ranges
Standard Range
VitalMetrics Range