Chelation therapy is the process of using chelating agents (organic compounds) to remove heavy metals from within the body. The metals removed are typically lead, arsenic, or mercury. Some of the most common chelation agents include dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA), 2,3-dimercapto-1-propanesulfonic acid (DMPS) and alpha lipoic acid (ALA).

Alternative medicine uses this process for various ailments including heart disease, autism, and more. Some doctors have also used it to treat irregular kidney...