Let’s answer the first question of ‘what is it’? Chelation is the process of removing heavy metals from the body. Metals such as mercury, lead, arsenic, cadmium (and others) are abundant in our society. They can be in the air we breathe, the water we drink and foods we eat and play no significant role in our bodies. These heavy metals are in the body’s tissues and in order to remove them, chelation may be required.
The Flint, MI water story that made national news, residents were using water filled with dangerous levels of lead. Which was particularly damaging for children whose bodily systems were still developing. In adults, major chronic diseases, including cardiovascular and renal disease, and neurological decline, are also strongly associated with toxic elements.[1]
Please visit the CDC for more information.
Another critical role in heavy metal removal is dental fillings. These amalgam fillings are made from mercury, silver, tin, and copper, which can leak into the bloodstream and can add to the problem of heavy metal toxicity. We recommend patients have all mercury fillings removed in order to reduce heavy metal toxicity. Please click here for more information on dental fillings
Metals are being used in industries and agriculture; particularly heavy metals such as mercury, cadmium, lead, and arsenic constitute a significant potential threat to human health because they are associated to many adverse effects on health. The consumption of fish is recommended because it is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been associated with health benefits due to its cardio-protective effects. However, the content of heavy metals discovered in some fish makes it complicated to clearly establish the role of fish consumption on a healthy diet. [2]
Dr. Veerula recommends using this consumer fish guide when grocery shopping for less contaminated fish and seafood. Shopping for less toxic fish.
They vary from person-to-person, but the most common are sleeping issues, fatigue, joint pain, weakness, painful headaches, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, speech difficulty, numbness, tingling, worsening of underlying mental health issues and more.
The removal process can take up to 6 months, depending on test results. We recommend testing based on the patients’ risk, which is determined by diet, dental fillings, and lifestyle. Testing is performed every 2-3 years to determine heavy metal levels. Dr. Veerula recommends chelation with an EDTA I.V. which is complemented with glutathione, vitamin C, magnesium, B vitamins, minerals, and a fiber-rich diet. The intravenous infusion takes approximately 1 to 2 hours and is performed on a weekly or monthly basis, depending on the patient’s availability. It’s a painless process, with very mild side effects but offers beneficial results in reducing heavy metals.
Our patients are offered Netflix, Wi-Fi and a cozy I.V. lounge to relax. We make the experience as pleasant as possible, and patients feel like they are visiting a spa.
For more information and pricing, please click here.
In good health,
Vishaal Veerula, M.D.
