IV Nutrition > IV Therapies > Chelation Therapy
What is Chelation Therapy?
The term "chelation" comes from the Greek word "chele" which refers to the claw of a lobster, a firm pincher which is like the binding action of the organic compound of a metal ion. There are many chelating agents used in medicine, EDTA is a chelating compound called Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetic-Acid and is used for IV Chelation therapy. This substance binds to heavy metals such as lead, mercury, copper, iron, arsenic, aluminum, and calcium in the body, allowing them to be safely excreted by the kidneys.
What are the benefits of IV Chelation?
Chelation is a very effective way to treat heavy-metal poisoning. Health Canada has approved prescription chelation therapy for the treatment of lead poisoning. Injected EDTA binds with the harmful metal and both are then eliminated from the body through the kidneys. EDTA is not absorbed or metabolized by the body, it works as a transport to remove harmful metals that cause free radicals and damage artery walls. EDTA has been effective in treating scleroderma, systemic sclerosis and diabetics demonstrated lower risk in cardiovascular events.
Is IV Chelation Therapy Safe?
Chelation therapy has been practiced for the past 50 years. EDTA may remove vital minerals from the body along with the toxic metals. Vitamins and minerals are added to the EDTA solution to help keep them at an optimal level in the body to maintain health. A chelation protocol with a proven safety profile is utilized by a Certified Chelation Therapist (CCT).
A Trial to Assess Chelation Therapy (TACT) was conducted, and, though it didn't provide enough evidence to support routine use for heart disease, it did find chelation therapy offered moderate protection against future cardiovascular events. These may include events like stroke and heart attacks in those with diabetes.
How Many IV Chelation Treatments will I need?
IV Chelation is a slow but effective process that works over time. The reported number of treatments varies depending on individual toxic body burden. The proposed treatment recommendations range from 20-40 treatments done once or twice per week with close monitoring and lab evaluations during treatments, then monthly treatments for 12 months followed by a recommended maintenance of one treatment every 3 months.
Certified Chelation Therapists (CTT)
Agnes Lussier-Dow is the only Certified Chelation Therapist (CCT) in Peterborough, having received extensive advanced training in the practice. She is certified by The Board of American College for Advancement in Medicine. Referrals from NDs, NPs, MDs, and DCs are welcome.
Always tell your Health Care Practitioner if you are using an alternate therapy or if you are thinking about combining an alternative therapy with your conventional medical treatment. It may not be safe to forgo your conventional treatment and rely only on alternative therapy.
