Chelation therapy is a chemical process that removes metallic or mineral toxins (such as lead, mercury, copper, iron, arsenic, aluminum, and calcium) from the body by binding them to the amino acid, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). The intoxication due to heavy metals like mercury, arsenic lead etc can be harmful to the body, so these are removed in Chelation Therapy. Basically three types of chelation treatments known are: oral chelation , EDTA combination chelation and EDTA chelation suppositories therapies.
Oral Chelation can be defined as a vitamin formula that is taken through the mouth orally which ultimately reduces the chance of heart attack and cancer. In oral chelation therapy the materials for Chelation are taken orally to the body. Oral Chelation Therapy is simple process and can be done as per the doctor instructions. EDTA, N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine and Cysteine are some of the common ingredients used for oral Chelation. Chelation delivered orally involves ingesting nutritional food supplements which contain chelating agents (EDTA & numerous natural chelators) including; vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants, phytonutrients, and herbs. Oral EDTA chelation is slower acting treatment because only 4% to 18% of an oral EDTA dose is absorbed. Nowadays, many companies are offering advanced oral Chelation formulas. Many studies have been performed to investigate the possibility of oral chelation therapy. However, to date, this administration form has been unsuccessful because only 5% to 10% of the EDTA is absorbed orally, whereas the LV. absorption rate is 100%. Various benefits of oral Chelation therapy includes - reduction of heavy metal toxicity and calcification, lowering down the blood cholesterol, thinning the blood and helps preventing the formation of blood clots. Oral chelation is safe for children and adults.
Benefits And Uses of Chelation Therapy
When combined with specialized nutritional supplements , exercise, weight normalization, and dietary changes, proponents claim that EDTA chelation therapy is an effective method of preventing or treating conditions related to atherosclerosis, such as coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction (MI), angina, cerebrovascular accident (CVA), and peripheral vascular disease, and that it may ultimately prevent associated conditions such as gangrene and senility. In addition, this therapy is thought to promote revascularization of the brain after CVA, of the heart after MI, and of the peripheral circulation in patients with peripheral vascular disease. Through all of its biochemical effects, EDTA may also improve metabolic function. Chelation helps in treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease, arteriosclerosis, coronary heart disease, peripheral vascular disease, scleroderma, and other age-related problems. Reduction of fatigue in patients who have undergone chelation therapy is another known benefit of chelation therapy. Other improvements are in the reduction of neurological symptoms, cardiovascular symptoms, skin conditions, respiratory symptoms, gastrointestinal, genital and urinary symptoms.
Clinical considerations of EDTA Chelation Therapy
EDTA chelation therapy should be instituted only after consultation with patient’s health care provider to avoid interference with any preexisting conditions or interactions with current medications. EDTA chelation therapy is not recommended in children, pregnant women, or patients with renal failure or severe heart failure.
How long does chelation therapy last and how much does it cost?
Intravenous chelation is a popular therapy and there are various clinics in different parts of the world including the major cities of the United States. A single chelation treatment usually takes about three to four hours and cost $110 to $150 per treatment. Patients often are advised to continue preventive treatment once a month. Such therapies should undergo only in the clinic fully recognized to avoid any risk or damage to the human body. Most doctors who administer chelation therapy for cardiovascular disease also recommend that patients undertake a whole-foods, low-fat diet and an exercise program.