Heavy Metal
Description
Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium are persistent environmental toxins that accumulate in the body over time. They can impair mitochondrial function, damage the nervous system, and disrupt hormones. Exposure may occur through water, dental fillings, food, cosmetics, or industrial environments. Functional medicine identifies heavy metal burden using targeted testing and supports detoxification with nutrients, binders, and gentle drainage strategies. Clearing metals can improve cognition, mood, energy, and overall resilience—especially in patients with unexplained symptoms or chronic conditions.
Symptoms
Fatigue or weakness
Brain fog or memory loss
Mood swings or anxiety
Tremors or numbness
Muscle or joint pain
Poor detox or chemical sensitivity
Headaches or migraines
Infertility or hormonal imbalance
Autoimmune symptoms
Frequent illness or poor immune function
Labs & Testing Options
Urine toxic metals (with and without chelation)
Blood heavy metals panel
Hair tissue mineral analysis (HTMA)
Organic acids test (mitochondrial stress)
Glutathione, selenium, zinc status
Liver and kidney function panels
MTHFR or GST SNP testing
GI-MAP (gut detox capacity)
Treatment Options
Chelation therapy (EDTA, DMSA—if medically appropriate)
Oral or IV glutathione, NAC, ALA (antioxidants)
Binders: activated charcoal, zeolite, bentonite clay
Sauna therapy and sweating
Magnesium, zinc, selenium repletion
Methylation and drainage pathway support
Elimination of exposure sources (filters, safe cookware, etc.)
Mitochondrial and nervous system repair
Heavy metals might be silently draining your health. Get tested and supported with a gentle, effective detox plan.