X-Message-Number: 11177 From: Date: Mon, 25 Jan 1999 17:27:35 -0600 (CST) Subject: Re: CryoNet #11164 Mike Perry wrote: "George Smith, #11156, asks for opinion re chelation therapy. As I understand it (though my knowledge is limited) it is supposed to erode atherosclerotic plaques in blood vessels by "freeing" the calcium so it can be eliminated from the body. But I haven't heard much on how well it works--I'd like to know more myself." I understand that this is the hypothesis used to dispute the therapeutic value of chelation therapy. What I have read seems to indicate that the chelating agent (EDTL for iv, and L- cysteine for oral) binds to molecules with higher atomic weight in general, especially heavy metals, and then enables these to exit the body via the kidneys. Hence the common use of iv chelation therapy for lead poisoning. Unless some people have been telling real "whoppers", the improvements in health with especially heart disease are remarkable. I actually am more concerned to determine if there are any drawbacks to using the oral approach than anything else at this point. Any suggestions? -George Smith A signed up cryonics member Rate This Message: http://www.cryonet.org/cgi-bin/rate.cgi?msg=11177