EDTA, the commonly recognized abbreviation of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, is a molecule that easily binds to metal ions that can be harmful to your body. Many medical professionals say consuming EDTA can aid your body by reducing heavy metal toxins that lie therein.

Chelation

The process through which a metal ion attaches to EDTA so it can then be flushed from the body is known as chelation. Chelation requires EDTA because it can latch onto metal ions in order to create new, complete molecules.

Mercury Poisoning

The negative effects of mercury have been linked to an array of neurological conditions, including autism and a host of other ailments affecting the entire body. Chelation with EDTA provides the most commonly recognized treatment for mercury poisoning.

Heart Problems

High levels of metals such as mercury and lead have been connected to hypertension, or high blood pressure, and other cardiovascular problems. EDTA can be used as both a preventive measure to safeguard against heart failure or as a treatment option by removing calcium plaque from the arteries.

Controversy

Despite the reports of many experts and health professionals about EDTA's health benefits, others in the medical industry argue to the contrary. Saul Green of Quackwatch.com, a scientific watchdog group, contends that many of the claims made by EDTA remain largely unproven.

Other Purported Benefits

In addition to treating heavy metal toxicity, researchers have noted other possible uses based on their findings. They suggest that EDTA has been able to "remove radioactive substances in acute radiation poisoning, lower blood cholesterol levels, and has had beneficial effects in the treatment of arthritis and other autoimmune disorders."

Source:

American Chronicle

Carolina Newswire

MedicineNet: Mercury Poisoning

More Information:

Quackwatch

Science Formulas