If you’ve ever been curious about the potential effects of consuming uranium, Galen Winsor’s daring experiment might offer some insights.
Winsor, a nuclear chemist, made headlines in 1985 when he ingested the radioactive substance to demonstrate its supposed harmlessness. Remarkably, he survived another 23 years, passing away at 82 in 2008.
He filmed himself eating uranium because he had become skeptical of the prevailing beliefs regarding its dangers, having spent three decades working with plutonium extraction—a process that involves uranium.
While the cause of Winsor’s death was not disclosed in his obituary, it’s plausible to speculate that his unusual dietary choice may have impacted his health.
Today, we have a clearer understanding of the health risks associated with uranium exposure.
Natural and depleted uranium share similar chemical effects on the human body. Despite its radioactivity, the primary health concerns stem from its chemical toxicity.
The kidneys are particularly vulnerable to uranium exposure. Studies on both humans and animals exposed to uranium have demonstrated this effect.
Individuals who inhale or ingest uranium compounds can experience kidney damage. Water-soluble uranium compounds pose a greater risk at lower doses compared to less soluble forms. Additionally, inhaling insoluble uranium compounds can damage the respiratory system.
Beyond kidney damage, no other consistent health effects have been documented in people who have inhaled or ingested uranium compounds, nor in military personnel with uranium metal fragments in their bodies.
In laboratory research, rats consuming uranium over long periods showed behavioral changes and alterations in specific brain chemical levels.
Some animal studies have indicated reduced fertility due to uranium exposure, while others have not found a similar association. Highly soluble uranium compounds applied to the skin have caused irritation and mild skin damage in animals.
Overall, Winsor’s prolonged life after consuming uranium suggests he was fortunate. It may also imply that very low levels of uranium exposure are not as hazardous as once thought.