Fact or Fiction: Zeolite & Detoxification

Since the 1940's, countless synthetic compounds have been prepared and introduced into the world to assist in various industrial, domestic and personal practices. While little forethought was initially given to the long-term effects of these manufactures compounds, years later we have begun to witness the negative health consequences of this chemical 'revolution' (Genius, 2011). It is only in recent years that scientists have started to look closely at the negative health effects that cumulative exposure to various toxins through inhalation, ingestion, dermal application, injection, surgical implantation and transmission through olfactory system have on the human body.

Figure 1. Categories of Potentially toxic chemicals

As a result of the escalating toxicant exposure and the accumulation of toxins within both individual and population groups, science is frantically working to undo the damage they helped to engineer.

DETOX!

While detoxifying the body may seem like just a celebrity fad, it is actually something that has been practiced by various cultures in differing forms throughout the centuries, and due to the toxic chemicals we ingest daily - it is certainly something that we should all consider.

However, with the myriad of information and misinformation out there, it once again becomes a question of: 'what works?' & 'what doesn't?' 

Zeolite

If you spend any reasonable time 'Googling' popular detox methods, you'll no doubt come across this 'revolutionary' new approach for cleansing the human body. Zeolite is primarily used in the purification of water and soil but due to the hysteria following the Fukushima nuclear disaster, Zeolite has been marketed as the next wonder supplement in helping to remove toxins such as mercury, lead, arsenic, pesticides and even radioactive isotopes.

Figure 2. Zeolite Crystal

Zeolite in Research

It is thought that Zeolite 'traps' toxins within it's honeycomb-like structure and allows them to be eliminated from the body through urine, swear and feces. The reality is a little less 'attractive' (from a marketing point of view).

Currently, animal research suggests that use of Zeolite is safe and may have potent effects with mycotoxins. Studies have also found that the compound has the ability to bind some toxicants and heavy metals in water and soil. However, virtually no human clinical trials have been conducted on it's detoxification properties. 

One study, looking at human detoxification of perfluorinated compounds (PFC - found in Teflon cookware, various 'non stain' oils and compounds) found that Zeolites do not appear to be effective means of facilitating the excretion of these compounds.

Any current evidence of it's effectiveness in the area of 'detox' is purely anecdotal in nature.

Any Benefits to Zeolite?

Before we dismiss the volcanic rock crystal as completely 'bunk', it is important to note that accumulating evidence from preclinical studies and the first human trials suggest that Zeolite supplementation can assist in modulating the immune system such that the effects of primary treatments of a variety of immunodeficiency disorders are enhanced.

The Verdict on Zeolite:

To supplement or not is ultimately your choice. I've presented you with the facts as they currently stand. However,if you decide to take Zeolite note that is has been deemed GRAS (Generally Recognised As Safe) by the FDA.

Ultimately, my take on the supplement is:

Watch this space! But, don't be fooled by marketing hype ...

Reference:

Genius, S. J. (2011). Elimination of persistent toxicants from the human body. Human and Experimental Toxicology, 30(1), 3-18.

Genius, S.J., Bikholz, D., Ralitsch, M., & Thibault, N. (2010). Human detoxification of perfluorinated compounds. Public Health, doi: 10.1016/j.puhe.2010.03.002

Ivkovic, S., Deutch, U., Silberbach, A., Walraph, E., & Mannel, M. (2004). Dietary supplementation with the tribomechanically activated zeolite clinoptilolite in immunodeficiency: Effects on the immune system. Advances in Therapy, 21(2), 135-148.

Andronikashvili, T., Pagava, K., Kurashvili, T., & Eprikashvili, L. (2009). Possibility of application of natural zeolites for medicinal purposes. Bulletin of the Georgian National Academy of Sciences, 3(2), 158-167.