Natural Chelators

Everyday life exposes you to numerous heavy metals, such as those found in food and air. The accumulation of such heavy metals in the body is known as heavy metal poisoning. Some of these metals include:

• Mercury
• Lead
• Arsenic
• Cadmium
• Aluminium
• Nickel
• Uranium etc.

Some metals, like iron, copper, and zinc, can be good in small amounts, but long-term or overexposure to them can lead to some serious health problems. These metals can be removed from the body and detoxified through chelation to prevent this. This is done by administering a chelating agent that binds to the metals and facilitates their excretion. Some of the dietary supplements that act as natural chelators are discussed below.

Chlorella

Chlorella is a natural detoxifier that can help remove harmful substances from the body. This green algae binds to heavy metals like lead, arsenic, mercury, and aluminum, aiding in their elimination. The chlorophyll in chlorella plays a key role in this process. Commonly consumed as a powder, chlorella can be easily mixed into water, juices, or smoothies.

A study in 2011 investigated the effects of chlorella on methylmercury metal transfer to the fetus of pregnant mice. The study found that continuous Chlorella powder intake suppressed mercury transfer to the fetus and prevented the accumulation of mercury in the brains of the mother.

Cilantro

Cilantro, also known as coriander, can help cleanse the body of harmful heavy metals. Its leaves can bind and remove these toxins through the digestive system. Beyond detoxification, cilantro can also bolster the immune system, which may be weakened by heavy metal exposure. For optimal results, combining cilantro with chlorella creates a powerful natural detoxifying duo. 

A study in 2012 that reviewed the medicinal effects of cilantro found that coriander helps the liver in the detoxification and excretion of heavy metals and toxins from the body.

Garlic

Garlic is a great detoxifying agent because it gives your body the sulfur it needs. The sulfur content of garlic helps your body eliminate harmful toxins through urine. Garlic, either in raw or extracted form, has the same effect on enhancing the detoxification process; hence, garlic supplements are always recommended in detox treatments. Onion is also another sulfur-containing supplement that acts as a natural chelator.

A study in 2012 investigating the therapeutic effects of garlic in patients with chronic occupational lead poisoning found that garlic reduced certain symptoms of metal toxicity, including irritability, headaches, and blood pressure. Hence, it can be recommended for the treatment of mild-to-moderate lead poisoning.

Lemon

Lemons can provide detoxifying benefits to the body when they are used to get rid of heavy metals. Vitamin C present in lemons and other citrus fruits can convert the toxins into a water-soluble form that can be easily eliminated from the body. The addition of freshly squeezed lemon juice to a glass of water can help maintain hydration levels, which can in turn help eliminate toxic metals from the body. 

A study in 2012 investigated the effect of vitamin C administration on rats exposed to lead. The results incorrectly indicated the protective effect of vitamin C against the toxic effects of lead on liver disease.

Turmeric

The curcumin found in turmeric is a potent antioxidant that prevents various oxidative damages caused by the accumulation of heavy metals. Turmeric aids in detoxification, which is the removal of toxic metals by allowing your liver to modify, inactivate, and eliminate the toxins. However, if you are using store-bought turmeric, it is important to check and make sure it is not adulterated with any of the metals, like lead.

A study published in 2004 examined the ability of curcumin to protect against lead and cadmium-induced lipid peroxidation in rats. The results of the study implied that curcumin can be therapeutically used to chelate toxic metals.

Conclusion

If you are looking for detoxification from heavy metals, consuming these foods as a part of a healthy diet can be beneficial to remove the heavy metals from the body. In addition to the intake of these natural chelating supplements, it is important to cut down on some of the foods that cause heavy metal poisoning. Some of them include highly processed foods, excess fats, alcohol, etc. These foods are low in nutritional value and also slow down the detoxification process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can chlorella act as a natural chelator?

Chlorella is a type of green algae that contains chlorophyll and other elements responsible for mobilizing and removing heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, mercury, and aluminum from the body. It can be consumed in the form of powder or added to water, juices, or smoothies.

2. What makes cilantro an effective natural chelator?

Cilantro, also known as coriander, possesses powerful chelating capabilities. It contains compounds that bind to and remove heavy metals from the body through the digestive system. Cilantro is often used in combination with other chelators like chlorella for optimal detoxification.

3. How does garlic act as a natural chelator?

Garlic contains sulfur compounds that provide detoxification benefits. The sulfur content in garlic aids in the elimination of harmful toxins, including heavy metals, through urine. Garlic can be consumed in its raw form or as a supplement, and it may help alleviate certain symptoms of metal toxicity.

4. How does lemon function as a natural chelator?

Lemon and other citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, which can convert toxins, including heavy metals, into water-soluble forms for easier elimination from the body. Additionally, the hydration provided by lemon juice can help flush out toxic metals.

5. What role does turmeric play as a natural chelator?

Turmeric contains curcumin, a potent antioxidant that can protect against oxidative damage caused by the accumulation of heavy metals. Curcumin aids in the detoxification process by supporting the liver's ability to modify, inactivate, and eliminate toxins. However, it is important to ensure that turmeric is not adulterated with any heavy metals.

6. Are there any risks or considerations when using natural chelators?

While natural chelators can be beneficial, it is important to use them responsibly and consult with a healthcare professional. Some individuals may be allergic to certain natural chelators, and excessive or improper use may have adverse effects. Additionally, natural chelators may not be sufficient for severe cases of heavy metal poisoning, and medical intervention may be necessary.