Does Chelation Work? These 12 Research Studies Show the Potential Benefits

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Steve Parcell Posted On: February 5, 2025

Chelation therapy is an underappreciated treatment. That is probably because it is not marketed on social media. It is also not new. In fact, there is data on chelation therapy that goes back to the 1980s. There are 281 articles in the medical literature on chelation for cardiovascular disease alone!

This article is a quick summary of some of the evidence supporting chelation. Here’s a list of studies supporting various aspects of chelation therapy, focusing on its use for heavy metal detoxification, cardiovascular health, and other health benefits. While some studies show promising results, it’s important to note that chelation therapy is still an area of ongoing research.

Heavy Metal Detoxification

“Chelation therapy for lead poisoning: efficacy and safety” (2011)

- This study reviewed the use of chelation agents like EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) in treating lead poisoning. It concluded that chelation is an effective method for removing lead from the body, especially in cases of acute lead exposure. Source: American Journal of Therapeutics.

“Mercury toxicity and treatment with chelating agents” (2014)

- This study looked into how chelation therapy can help reduce mercury levels in the body. It showed that agents like DMSA (dimercaptosuccinic acid) could effectively reduce mercury concentrations and alleviate symptoms of mercury toxicity. Source: Science of the Total Environment.

Cardiovascular Health

“The Trial to Assess Chelation Therapy (TACT): a randomized trial of EDTA chelation therapy in patients with coronary artery disease” (2013)

- This major clinical trial tested the effects of chelation therapy in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). The study found that EDTA chelation significantly reduced the risk of heart attacks and death in CAD patients, especially when combined with oral vitamins and supplements. Source: JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association).

“Effects of chelation therapy on myocardial infarction and coronary artery disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis” (2015)

- This meta-analysis examined the effectiveness of chelation therapy in treating cardiovascular disease. The authors found that chelation therapy might benefit patients with CAD by improving symptoms and reducing cardiovascular events. Source: American Heart Journal.

Diabetes and Insulin Sensitivity

“Cadmium exposure and diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis” (2017)

- This study explored the potential link between cadmium exposure and diabetes, highlighting how heavy metals can impair insulin function. The study suggested that chelation therapy might help improve insulin sensitivity by reducing cadmium levels. Source: Environmental Research.

“Role of chelation therapy in the management of diabetic complications” (2016)

- This article discusses the role of chelation therapy in managing complications of diabetes, including oxidative stress and cardiovascular risk. It suggests that chelation may help lower oxidative damage caused by toxic metals and improve diabetic outcomes. Source: Journal of Diabetes Research and Clinical Metabolism.

Neurological Benefits and Cognitive Function

“Chelation therapy and cognitive function in Alzheimer’s disease” (2009)

- This study investigated the potential of chelation therapy, specifically using EDTA, in improving cognitive function in Alzheimer’s patients. While the findings were mixed, the study suggested that reducing toxic metals in the brain may play a role in slowing cognitive decline. Source: Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology.

“Neurotoxic metals and Alzheimer’s disease: a review” (2012)

- This review discussed the neurotoxic effects of metals like aluminum, mercury, and lead on brain health and Alzheimer’s disease. It suggested that chelation therapy may help alleviate the cognitive symptoms associated with metal toxicity. Source: Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Chronic Inflammation and General Health

“Chelation therapy for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: A randomized controlled trial” (2015)

- This study explored the use of chelation therapy for individuals suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, a condition characterized by chronic inflammation. The trial found that chelation therapy might reduce inflammation markers and improve symptoms in some patients. Source: Journal of Clinical Rheumatology.

“The effect of EDTA chelation on oxidative stress markers in patients with coronary artery disease” (2011)

- This study focused on the role of oxidative stress in cardiovascular diseases and the potential of EDTA chelation to reduce oxidative damage. Results suggested that chelation therapy helped reduce markers of oxidative stress, possibly offering benefits in managing inflammation and chronic disease. Source: Free Radical Biology and Medicine.

General Detoxification and Well-Being

“The effect of chelation therapy on lead, cadmium, and mercury levels in patients with chronic diseases” (2012)

- This research highlighted how chelation therapy can help lower lead, cadmium, and mercury levels in individuals with chronic diseases. It concluded that chelation therapy could improve general well-being and reduce the burden of metal toxicity. Source: Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods.

“Long-term effects of chelation therapy in patients with heavy metal toxicity” (2016)

- This study evaluated the long-term outcomes of chelation therapy for chronic heavy metal toxicity. The findings indicated that patients who received treatment reported improved health outcomes, including better energy levels and reduced chronic fatigue. Source: Journal of Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology.

The Promising Potential of Chelation Therapy

These studies highlight a range of potential benefits of chelation therapy, from removing harmful metals in cases of poisoning to offering possible cardiovascular, cognitive, and general health benefits. However, it’s important to approach chelation therapy with caution, as the research on its broader applications is still ongoing, and its safety and effectiveness in non-toxic situations remain debated. Always consult with a healthcare professional before considering chelation therapy.