What Is Chelation Therapy? A Comprehensive Guide

Chelation therapy is a chemical process involving the injection of a synthetic solution into the bloodstream to remove heavy metals and minerals from the body. The solution used, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), binds to metals like lead, mercury, copper, iron, arsenic, aluminium, and calcium, facilitating their elimination from the body.

Despite its controversial status and lack of FDA approval for conditions other than lead poisoning, chelation therapy is widely used and advocated for various purposes.

Critical Facts About Chelation Therapy

1. Use of Chelation Therapy:
   • Chelation therapy effectively treats heavy metal poisoning by binding harmful metals with EDTA and removing them via the kidneys.
   • Some health professionals also use chelation therapy to treat atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. However, more evidence supporting its effectiveness is needed. Proponents believe EDTA binds with arterial calcium deposits, potentially reducing heart disease risk by “cleaning” arteries.
   • Chelation therapy may also alleviate pain in chronic inflammatory diseases like arthritis, lupus, and scleroderma due to its potential antioxidant effects, which protect blood vessels from inflammation.
2. Safety Considerations:
   • Chelation therapy is not recommended for children, pregnant women, or individuals with heart or kidney issues.
   • Previously administered in high doses, chelation therapy was linked to kidney damage and irregular heartbeats. Even in low doses, potential side effects include high blood pressure, headaches, rashes, low blood sugar, and thrombophlebitis.
   • EDTA may remove essential minerals and toxic metals, so vitamin and mineral supplements are often added to the solution to maintain optimal levels.
3. Chelation Therapy Process:
   • Chelation therapy involves introducing chelating agents into the body via intravenous (IV) drip or oral pill. Once in the bloodstream, the agents bind to specific molecules and are excreted through urination, carrying the bound metals.
   • Common chelating agents include EDTA, dimercaprol, succimer, deferoxamine, penicillamine, and deferasirox. FDA-approved agents are available by prescription for specific conditions like lead poisoning and iron overload.
4. Conditions Treated with Chelation Therapy:
   • FDA-approved primarily for heavy metal poisoning, chelation therapy is also advocated for atherosclerosis and other ailments.
   • Proponents claim chelation therapy can treat osteoarthritis, autism, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and peripheral artery disease by removing calcium deposits and acting as an antioxidant against chronic inflammation.
5. Who Can Perform Chelation Therapy?
   • Any licensed physician can perform chelation therapy, although it is typically conducted by naturopathic specialists or medical professionals with specialized training in metal toxicity.
   • Potential benefits of Chelation Therapy: by reducing heavy metal concentrations in the body, Chelation therapy offers significant benefits to patients with metal poisoning and iron or copper overload. Suggested but unproven benefits include treatment for heart diseases and autism.
6. Side Effects of Chelation Therapy:
   • It’s important to note that potential side effects of chelation therapy include gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea), skin reactions, and possible kidney or liver damage. Chelating agents may remove essential metals like zinc and manganese and reduce calcium levels, potentially causing cardiac complications.

For more information about Chelation Therapy or other therapies, contact the Center For Quality Life, the best hospital for HBOT, Ozone, Salt, and Cryo therapies in Hyderabad.