Chelation therapy is where a man-made amino acid called EDTA is supplemented to the body. EDTA binds metals like lead or mercury so that it can be discarded during urination. Chelation therapy is most commonly used to treat atherclerosis.

Atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries occurs when the inner walls of the arteries become lined with deposits of fat, cholesterol and other substances, including calcium. This fatty buildup usually starts when a person is younger with an increase in buildup on in to the middle age years. This is why the disease is more prevalent in older people.

As plaque builds up, the arteries become hard and constricted. As the arteries narrow, they lose their ability to expand and contract as blood flows through them. This makes it harder for blood to flow; therefore, the heart must work harder to pump blood throughout the body. If this plaque ruptures or a blood clot blocks a narrowed artery, a heart attack, stroke or other serious medical problem can occur.

Chelation Therapy Treatment

Chelation therapy treatment normally lasts two to four hours and costs between $50 and $100. In the first month, a person can receive from five to 30 treatments and advised to continue preventive treatment once a month.

Insurance normally won't cover the cost of treatment; EDTA isn't a medically accepted procedure for atherosclerosis.

Side Effects

Side effects are minimal with chelation therapy and the benefits are worth the treatment for most people. For example, because of the lifestyle changes required when you start chelation therapy like quitting smoking, losing weight, healthier eating habits, and a regular exercise regime, which are all life-changing applications that improves your overall quality of life and well-being.

You should talk to your doctor before starting chelation therapy or any other medical treatment. You should have realistic expectations about the outcome of this medical application and discuss your options with your physician.

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