Chelation Therapy
First, you may be wondering what the heck is Chelation Therapy? Chelation is a way to detox from heavy metals by converting toxic metal ions into a chemically and biochemically inert form that can then be excreted out of the body.
Chelation therapy should only be done working with a trained medical provider. Before starting Chelation, there are essential steps to prime the body to ensure the kidneys, liver, and gut health are all working well.
One way to do this is to test your nutritional status. I often utilize testing such as “essential elements” from doctors data with my patients. The tests also indicate mineral status and show us where extra support may be needed.
If indicated, I will also run a genetic assessment panel to be sure that detox pathways are in good working order. Based on the findings, these pathways can be upregulated through support and supplementation. Some examples of possible supplementation include liposomal glutathione or methylated folate if there is an MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) gene mutation.
A side note on MTHFR. It is believed that an average of 30-50% has an MTHFR gene mutation. MTHFR is a gene that provides our bodies with the blueprint to make an enzyme called MTHFR (or methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase.) When you eat foods that contain folic acid, this gene (if working correctly) converts it into methyl-folate, which is folate’s active form. Methyl-folate is crucial for methylation, which optimizes processes in the body, including the metabolism of hormones, DNA production, and proper detoxification, which is important in supporting Chelation therapy.
Another critical step is to be sure you are consuming a high fiber diet (40-50 gr per day). If your diet isn’t high in fruits and veggies to support alkalinity, this will need to be a shift that is made before Chelation. You should be eating at a minimum of 7 servings of colorful fruits and veggies per day. You should also be sure to remove all refined sugars from your diet before starting therapy.
Lastly, it is essential to move and sweat regularly, at least 4-5x per week, including sauna treatments and Epsom salt baths.
I know that was a lot of info, but I know you can handle it. We are here to answer any questions you might have! Again, be sure you are working with a trained provider if you feel you may need heavy metal detoxification. We can ascertain if this is required and can support you through the methylation process.
To learn more healthy living tips, visit the Shift Functional Medicine blog!