What is the best way to remove heavy metals from the body?
Introduction
Heavy metal toxicity is becoming an increasingly common health issue. Heavy metals like mercury, lead, arsenic, cadmium, and aluminum can accumulate in the body over time and cause serious health problems. Removing these toxins from the body can be challenging, but there are several effective methods available. In this article, we will examine the top 10 ways to remove heavy metals from the body.
Chelation Therapy
Chelation therapy is a medical procedure that involves injecting a chelating agent like EDTA into the bloodstream. The chelating agent binds to heavy metals in the blood and allows them to be flushed out in the urine. Chelation therapy is one of the most effective ways to remove heavy metals quickly. It is often used for severe cases of heavy metal poisoning.
Some key points about chelation therapy:
- Must be administered by a doctor in a clinical setting
- Typically involves 20-30 treatments over several months
- Can remove many heavy metals including lead, mercury, arsenic, aluminum, and cadmium
- Removes minerals like calcium, magnesium, and zinc so supplements are needed
- Most insurance does not cover chelation therapy
For people with moderately high levels of heavy metals, natural chelating agents may be safer options.
Chlorella
Chlorella is a type of green algae that has excellent heavy metal binding capacities. It contains molecules like chlorophyll and chlorella growth factor that can latch onto metals and escort them out of the body. Studies show chlorella can help remove heavy metals like mercury, lead, cadmium, and aluminum.
| Chlorella Benefits For Heavy Metal Removal |
|---|
| Binds to metals in the gut before absorption into the blood |
| Mobilizes metals already in body tissues |
| Increases glutathione which aids detoxification |
| Contains vitamin C and amino acids to support liver detox |
The recommended dose is around 3-5 grams per day. Make sure to get high-quality chlorella from a reputable supplement company.
Cilantro
Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a powerful heavy metal detoxifier. It contains substances like chlorophyll, flavonoids, and phenols that bind to metals and facilitate their excretion. Research indicates cilantro can effectively remove lead, aluminum, and mercury from the body.
Some tips for using cilantro to detox heavy metals:
- Eat 1 bunch of fresh cilantro per week
- Blend cilantro with greens for smoothies
- Take coriander oil supplements as directed
- Drink cilantro tea several times per week
Be sure to buy organic cilantro when possible to limit pesticide exposure.
Garlic
Garlic has sulfur-containing amino acids and other compounds that give it excellent binding affinity for heavy metals like lead, cadmium, aluminum, and arsenic. Studies show garlic can prevent heavy metal absorption and increase their excretion.
Ways to use garlic for heavy metal detox:
- Eat 2-3 raw garlic cloves per day
- Take an aged garlic supplement providing 2000-6000 mcg of allicin
- Drink garlic tea
- Add generous amounts of garlic to soups, stews, and salad dressings
Cooked garlic still provides benefits but raw garlic maximizes the sulfur compounds. Those with bleeding disorders should consult their doctor before increasing garlic intake.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is an herb that supports liver detoxification. It contains silymarin, a compound shown to increase glutathione levels and bind to heavy metals in the liver. Taking milk thistle may help remove heavy metals through the bile.
| Recommended Milk Thistle Supplementation |
|---|
| 150-300 mg silymarin per day |
| Take 20-30 minutes before meals |
| Look for standardized 80% silymarin extract |
People with diabetes, hormone-sensitive conditions, and gallbladder issues should get medical guidance before using milk thistle.
Spirulina
Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae revered as a superfood. It contains phycocyanobilin, a compound that binds to heavy metals and facilitates their removal. Spirulina also provides mineral transports that can grab ahold of metals throughout the body.
- Take 5-10 grams of spirulina powder per day
- Add to smoothies, soups, dips, and dressings
- Look for high-quality organic spirulina with no additives
- Can also find phycocyanin supplements
Those with autoimmune conditions should avoid spirulina due to potential immune stimulation. Introduce spirulina slowly to avoid digestive upset.
Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is a potent detoxifier known to adsorb heavy metals. It has massive surface area with pores that trap toxins in the GI tract, preventing their absorption. Using activated charcoal may interrupt heavy metal circulation between the intestines and bloodstream.
Tips for using activated charcoal:
- Take 1000-2000 mg capsules between meals
- Initially take for just 3-4 days to avoid nutrient malabsorption
- Drink plenty of water to flush out released toxins
- May cause constipation so increase magnesium intake
Avoid taking activated charcoal near pharmaceutical medications or supplements since it can reduce their absorption.
Infrared Sauna
Infrared saunas raise the body’s core temperature causing heavy metals like mercury and arsenic to be released through sweat. Regular sauna use provides a gentle detoxification effect over time. Opt for saunas using low EMF infrared technology.
| Infrared Sauna Protocol |
|---|
| Start with 10-15 minutes sessions and work up to 30-45 minutes |
| Use 2-3 times per week for heavy metal detox |
| Always shower and hydrate post-sauna |
| Avoid sauna if pregnant, have medical conditions, or on medications |
Infrared saunas enhance circulation and provide other health benefits beyond detoxification.
Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay is a healing clay derived from ancient volcanic ash deposits. It carries a strong negative electromagnetic charge that bonds to heavy metals and other toxins in the gut. Using bentonite clay can remove heavy metals while providing gut-soothing effects.
- Take 1-2 tablespoons internally mixed in water 1-2x daily
- Look for calcium or sodium bentonite clay
- Can also utilize bentonite clay masks on the skin
- Avoid breathing in bentonite dust when handling
Do not take bentonite clay at the same time as medications or supplements since it can reduce their absorption. Let at least 2 hours pass between taking bentonite clay and other oral therapies.
Probiotics
A healthy gut microbiome plays a role in heavy metal detoxification. Beneficial gut bacteria like lactobacillus and bifidobacterium can bind to metals in the intestines, reducing their reabsorption. Probiotics also support healthy inflammation levels and restore intestinal barrier integrity for enhanced detoxification.
Some tips for using probiotics:
- Consume probiotic foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, yogurt, kefir, etc.
- Take a broad spectrum probiotic supplement with at least 25-50 billion CFUs
- Stick with trusted probiotic brands that use patented strains
- Take on an empty stomach and store probiotics properly
Those with immune deficiencies should exercise caution with probiotic therapy.
Zeolites
Zeolites are unique mineral compounds formed from volcanic rock and ash that are profoundly porous. This honeycomb structure gives zeolites incredible binding capacity for heavy metals and other toxins. Studies indicate zeolites can remove lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, nickel, and aluminum from the body.
Some tips for using zeolites:
- Take 500-1500 mg of micronized zeolites with meals
- Liquid zeolite supplements are also available
- Zeolite powders can be added to water
- Look for purity-tested medical grade zeolites
Zeolites should be introduced slowly to avoid detox reactions like headaches or fatigue. Those with kidney issues should consult their physician before using zeolites.
Conclusion
Removing heavy metals from the body can be complex. Working with a knowledgeable functional medicine practitioner is recommended to determine your heavy metal burden through testing. Chelation therapy is best for severe acute poisoning, while natural agents are safer for moderate exposure. A comprehensive plan may include a chelating diet, optimizing nutrition, using several of the supplements discussed, and improving elimination routes like the liver, gut, and kidneys. With patience and perseverance, it is possible to clear the body of accumulated heavy metals and regain your health.
