Chelation Therapy is a medically endorsed method designed to purge the body of harmful heavy metals. This detoxification is achieved through the administration of specific chelating compounds.
Is chelation therapy FDA-approved?
One such compound is Calcium EDTA, also known as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, which has received FDA approval for lead removal. This chelating amino acid is adept at binding with various toxic metals, including lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, and more.
When Calcium EDTA is introduced into the body via an intravenous drip, it actively seeks out metals and minerals, facilitating their elimination through the body’s natural detox channels such as urine, skin, liver, colon, kidneys, and perspiration.
Symptoms of Heavy Metal Toxicity:
- Chronic pain throughout the muscles and tendons or any soft tissues of the body
- Chronic malaise – general feeling of discomfort, fatigue, and illness
- Brain fog – state of forgetfulness and confusion
- Chronic infections such as Candida
- Gastrointestinal complaints, such as diarrhea, constipation, bloating, gas, heartburn, and indigestion
- Food allergies
- Dizziness
- Migraines and/or headaches
- Visual disturbances
- Mood swings, depression, and/or anxiety
- Nervous system malfunctions – burning extremities, numbness, tingling, paralysis, and/or an electrifying feeling throughout the body
Root Causes of Heavy Metal:
- Dental Fillings: Mercury amalgams, commonly used for tooth fillings, can be a significant source of mercury exposure.
- Home Environment: Residing in houses with lead-based paint, which is often found in older buildings, increases the risk of lead ingestion.
Tobacco - Exposure: Smoking or inhaling second-hand smoke introduces a variety of toxic metals, including cadmium and lead.
- Dietary Intake: Consuming fish known to contain high levels of mercury, or eating processed foods and drinking water with unseen contaminants, can lead to metal accumulation.
Occupational - Hazards: Working in environments where chemicals, solvents, and cleaning products are used can expose you to a range of harmful substances.
Heavy Metal Testing
To pinpoint the presence of heavy metals in the body, a specialized test known as the heavy metal challenge test is utilized. This test is designed to reveal the total level of heavy metal toxicity.
Heavy Metal Testing Process:
- Chelation Challenge: A test involving a chelating substance to bind and remove heavy metals.
- Urine Analysis: A detailed examination of urine over six hours post-chelation to measure metal excretion.
- FDA Recognition: Chelation therapy is an FDA-endorsed treatment for lead detoxification.
*Consider chelation therapy as a potential treatment to alleviate symptoms by removing heavy metals from the body. Always consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Common uses of chelation therapy:
- Cardiovascular Health: It’s being studied for its role in improving blood flow, which could be beneficial for those with cardiovascular disease.
- Circulatory Complications: Conditions like gangrene that affect blood flow may see improvements with chelation therapy.
- Neurological Conditions: There’s ongoing research into how chelation might help with multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease by reducing metal-induced oxidative stress.
- Muscle and Skin Health: Muscular dystrophy and psoriasis are on the list of conditions that might benefit from the detoxifying effects of chelation therapy.
- Metabolic and Joint Health: Diabetes and arthritis sufferers may find chelation therapy helpful in managing inflammation and oxidative damage.
How to Heavy Metal Detox Naturally & Safely.
To reduce the risk of heavy metal toxicity and enhance overall health, consider making key diet and lifestyle changes:
- Opt for organic, unprocessed foods with low sugar content to minimize chemical intake.
- If you have dental amalgam fillings, seek a specialist for assessment and potential removal.
- Steer clear of processed foods and limit grain products to reduce exposure to additives and preservatives.
- Hydrate with at least 64 ounces of pure water daily, adding lemon for its digestive and alkalizing benefits.
- Choose smaller fish over larger, mercury-prone species like tuna, mackerel, and swordfish.
- Incorporate natural chelating agents into your diet, such as cilantro, garlic, and oregano.
- Limit intake of alcohol, tobacco, and scrutinize prescription medications for potential toxins.
- Enhance detoxification with colon hydrotherapy and infrared sauna sessions.
- In the kitchen, replace aluminum and non-stick cookware with safer options like glass, cast iron, or enamel.
- Be mindful of the cookware used in restaurants where you eat.
- Choose cosmetics free from aluminum bases and be cautious of aluminum and mercury in certain vaccines.
- Keep your living and working environments dust-free to reduce inhalation of particulates.
- Leave shoes at the door to avoid tracking in contaminants.
- Test your home’s water for purity and avoid old pipes that may leach metals.
- Inspect your home for potential sources of toxins like old paint and plastics.
- Stay informed about local advisories on mercury in fish.
- Read labels carefully for any products that come into your home.
- For dental work, opt for alternatives to toxic amalgam fillings.
- Quit smoking to avoid cadmium and other harmful chemicals.
- Invest in high-quality supplements from reputable sources.
Chelation Therapy FAQ
Top 20 frequently asked questions about chelation therapy:
- What is chelation therapy?
Chelation therapy is a medical procedure that involves the administration of chelating agents to bind and remove certain metals from the body.
- How does chelation therapy work?
Chelating agents work by binding to heavy metals in the bloodstream, which are then excreted in the urine.
- What is chelation therapy used for?
It’s primarily used to treat heavy metal poisoning, such as lead or mercury toxicity.
- Is chelation therapy scientifically proven?
Chelation therapy is FDA-approved for treating heavy metal poisoning, but its effectiveness for other conditions is still being studied.
- What substances are used in chelation therapy?
The most common chelating agents include EDTA (ethylene diamine tetra-acetic acid), DMPS (2,3-Dimercapto-1-propanesulfonic acid), and DMSA (meso-2,3-Dimercaptosuccinic acid).
- Is chelation therapy safe?
When performed by a trained healthcare professional, chelation therapy can be safe, but it carries risks like any medical procedure.
- What are the side effects of chelation therapy?
Potential side effects can include headaches, nausea, fatigue, hypocalcemia, and in rare cases, kidney damage.
- How long does a chelation therapy session last?
A typical session can last a few hours, depending on the specific protocol being followed.
- How many chelation therapy sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies depending on the level of metal toxicity and the patient’s response to treatment.
- Can chelation therapy cure heart disease?
There is ongoing research, but currently, there is not enough scientific evidence to support chelation therapy as a treatment for heart disease.
- Is chelation therapy covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on the reason for the therapy; it’s typically covered for heavy metal poisoning, but not for unapproved conditions.
- Can chelation therapy remove calcium from the body?
Yes, some chelating agents can bind to calcium, which is why monitoring by a healthcare professional is important.
- Is chelation therapy approved for children?
In cases of documented heavy metal poisoning, chelation therapy can be used in children under strict medical supervision.
- What kind of doctor performs chelation therapy?
Doctors who typically perform chelation therapy include those specializing in toxicology, alternative medicine, and sometimes cardiology or internal medicine.
- Can chelation therapy help with autism?
Some alternative medicine practitioners suggest chelation for autism, but scientific evidence does not currently support its use for this condition.
- Are there any dietary restrictions during chelation therapy?
Your healthcare provider may recommend dietary changes to support the treatment and overall health.
- Can chelation therapy be done at home?
Some forms of chelation therapy can be taken orally under medical guidance, but it is not recommended to attempt chelation therapy at home without professional supervision.
- What are the qualifications of a chelation therapist?
A qualified chelation therapist should be a licensed healthcare professional with specific training in chelation.
- Can I take supplements during chelation therapy?
Some supplements may interfere with the treatment, so it’s important to discuss all supplements with your healthcare provider.
- How do I know if I need chelation therapy?
Chelation therapy should only be considered if there is a medically diagnosed reason, such as confirmed heavy metal poisoning, which would typically be identified through blood or urine tests.
*Please note that the specifics of chelation therapy, such as indications, efficacy, and risks, may change as new research emerges. Always consult with a healthcare provider for the most current information and personalized advice.