George · The Biohack Diaries
Heavy Metal Detox
Heavy Metal Detox is a 2-hour IV that binds heavy metals so the body can clear them. It removes toxic heavy metals such as lead and mercury from the body by giving a chelating agent through an intravenous line, which helps reduce the health risks of heavy metal build-up and toxicity.
Developed in the middle of the 20th century as a way to treat metal poisoning, chelation therapy removes heavy metals and other toxins from the body. Its demonstrated benefits have kept it in use ever since.
What it is and how it works
Chelation is usually done by IV, although oral methods have been effective in some patients. During the infusion, EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) is given. It attaches to the toxic metals in the body, which are then flushed out in the urine. The word "chelation" comes from the Greek for "claw": EDTA acts as a chemical claw that grabs heavy metals and removes them from the body.
Why are these metals in the body in the first place? Their levels build up over time from exposure to lead, dental fillings that contain mercury, some vaccinations and other sources, such as regular consumption of farm-raised fish. Most of these metals will not leave the body on their own, but chelation reduces their levels over time.
What it is for
Research suggests several potential benefits:
Less physical and mental fatigue: when your body harbors toxins, even in amounts considered safe, you can feel physically tired and mentally foggy, without the energy or sharpness you once had. When metals like lead and mercury are removed, these symptoms lessen and energy and concentration bounce back.
Heart and blood vessel health: removing toxic metals like lead and cadmium, known contributors to arterial plaque, may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Chelation has also been shown to reduce scar tissue and plaque in the arteries, which may help lower blood pressure and in turn reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects: in some patients, EDTA acts much like an antioxidant, scaling back damage from oxygen ions and other free radicals. This helps reduce inflammation and the pain associated with it.
Cognitive function: it has been investigated for its potential to improve cognitive function by reducing the burden of neurotoxic metals such as mercury and arsenic, although further studies are needed to confirm this. It may also limit symptoms related to Alzheimer's disease (see The science).
Cancer prevention: heavy metal detox may play a role in cancer prevention by reducing exposure to carcinogenic metals, although more research is needed to establish a definite link.
Who it is for
People who have been exposed to, or have a build-up of, toxic heavy metals. A simple urine test can show whether toxic metals are present in the body, to decide whether chelation therapy is warranted.
Where do toxic heavy metals come from?
Knowing where heavy metals come from in daily life helps you reduce your exposure.
Lead
Sources: lead-based paint, lead pipes, imported goods.
Health effects: neurological and developmental problems in children. In adults, high blood pressure, fertility problems, and damage to organs such as the kidneys and liver.
Mercury
Sources: seafood, dental fillings, thermometers and fluorescent bulbs.
Health effects: harm to the nervous system, leading to memory problems, mood swings and muscle weakness. Exposure before birth can affect fetal development and cause birth defects.
Cadmium
Sources: cigarette smoke, food contamination, batteries.
Health effects: associated with lung and prostate cancer. It can also weaken bones, leading to fractures, and damage the kidneys.
Arsenic
Sources: drinking water, rice and rice products, pesticides and herbicides.
Health effects: long-term exposure is linked to skin, lung, bladder and liver cancers. It can also cause skin lesions, cardiovascular problems and developmental problems in children.
Chromium
Sources: industrial processes, diet, chromium supplements.
Health effects: inhaling hexavalent chromium, a highly toxic form, can cause lung cancer. Too many chromium supplements may damage the kidneys and liver.
Staying informed about these sources and taking steps to limit exposure, such as using water filters, avoiding certain foods and being cautious with imported goods, is an important part of a healthy, safe lifestyle. Regularly reviewing your environment and diet helps reduce the risks.
Who should not have it
Chelation is not advisable, or needs careful evaluation, in these situations:
Allergy: a known allergy or hypersensitivity to the chelating agent.
Kidney problems: chelating agents are mainly excreted through the kidneys. If you have severe kidney impairment or are at risk of further kidney damage, the treatment may not be recommended, as it can make kidney problems worse.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: the treatment could harm a developing baby or pass to an infant through breast milk.
Severe hypertension: people with uncontrolled high blood pressure may not be suitable, as the treatment can temporarily lower blood calcium levels, which may worsen hypertension.
Heart disease: the treatment can affect heart rhythm and may not be recommended for people with certain heart conditions or a history of heart disease without careful evaluation.
Blood disorders: people with certain blood disorders or conditions that affect blood clotting may have a higher risk of bleeding complications.
Liver disease: severe liver impairment may interfere with the processing and elimination of the chelating agent, making the treatment less safe with advanced liver disease.
Anyone considering heavy metal detox needs a thorough medical evaluation and a discussion of their medical history. The treatment is given only under the guidance and supervision of a doctor, who weighs the potential risks and benefits case by case.
The treatment
Each Heavy Metal Detox infusion takes about 2 hours. You sit in a comfortable recliner while the infusion runs into a vein in your arm, with a doctor on site. The metals bound by EDTA leave your body in the urine.
Patients typically need between five and 10 treatments to see results. The number of sessions is always set by your doctor after an in-person assessment. Several treatments can be combined on the same day, as your doctor advises.
Before and aftercare
Eat. Please have a light meal or snack before your infusion; some infusions can cause nausea on an empty stomach.
Hydrate. Drink a few glasses of water before you come. Veins are smaller and harder to find when you are dehydrated, and your body responds better when you are well hydrated.
Wear comfortable clothes. A short-sleeved top, or sleeves that roll up above the elbow, is ideal. We have blankets if you feel cold.
Relax and bring something to enjoy. Take a few minutes to relax and breathe once you are seated. Bring a book, magazines or your favorite music with earbuds; this time is yours.
Quality and safety
Ingredients imported through official distributors.
Prepared under strict safety guidelines, with hospital-standard equipment and sterile technique. The doctors follow the latest standards at every stage, from consultation and medication preparation to giving the treatment and aftercare.
Given by a well-trained, experienced team, with a doctor on site.
Please eat before your drip. Don't come on an empty stomach.
The science
Cardiovascular events: the TACT trial
According to a study sponsored by the US National Institutes of Health, the Trial to Assess Chelation Therapy (TACT), chelation therapy produced a "modest reduction in cardiovascular events". The reductions were most pronounced in patients who also had diabetes, and in patients who also took high doses of vitamins and minerals. More information: NCCIH: Chelation for coronary heart disease.
Alzheimer's disease
Chelation therapy can help reduce plaque in the body, and plaque is considered a main cause of the onset of Alzheimer's disease. A 2003 study and editorial in the Archives of Neurology supported this, pointing to chelation therapy as a viable treatment for patients with Alzheimer's: Archives of Neurology (JAMA Neurology).
Frequently asked questions
How does chelation remove metals?
EDTA binds to heavy metals in the body like a claw. The bound metals are then flushed out in the urine.
How do I know if I need it?
A simple urine test can show whether toxic metals are present in your body and whether chelation therapy is warranted. Your doctor also reviews your medical history before treatment.
How many treatments will I need?
Patients typically need between five and 10 treatments to see results. Your doctor sets the number of sessions after an in-person assessment.
Can I have it if I have kidney or heart problems?
Possibly not. Severe kidney impairment, uncontrolled high blood pressure and certain heart conditions are reasons the treatment may not be recommended. Your doctor evaluates each case carefully.
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