We all know the ramifications of smoking every day or a diet that’s a result of grocery shopping from a drive-thru. But, what about the less-than-visible poisons in our daily lives — things we may not even know we’re ingesting — like heavy metals?
The conversation around heavy metal toxicity and heavy metal detoxing has come up in the wellness sphere many times over the years, notably when Miranda Kerr showed off her 5:30 A.M. heavy metal detox smoothie from 2020, and when loads of TikTokers and celebs started chugging chlorophyll water and green juices back in 2021.
But what exactly is heavy metal toxicity, and why are some people detoxing from heavy metals?
Humans are exposed to a variety of heavy metals through harmful particles we breathe in, some foods we eat, and the certain cosmetic products we put on our skin. Small amounts of metals, like iron and zinc, are found in just about everything. They are completely safe and normal, and even vital to various biological mechanisms. However, exposure to too many toxic heavy metals can be dangerous.
RELATED: Best personalized vitamins and supplements, per experts and our reviews
Studies in the National Library of Medicine have shown that heavy metals like lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium can accumulate in the body’s tissues and bind to cells over time, preventing them from functioning properly and causing harm to DNA and vital organs, like the brain and liver. Symptoms can range from headaches to fatigue, constipation, brain fog, and a lowered immune system.
Concerns around heavy metals have driven a popular trend in the wellness world — heavy metal detoxing, which is used to extract a buildup of heavy metals from the body.
For supplement recommendations and expert guidance, The Post consulted Dr. Alicia Armitstead, founder of Healing Arts, Manhattan’s Premier Integrative Health and Wellness Center. Armistead has an advanced post-graduate certification in Nutrition Response Testing Advanced Clinical Training and has 18 years of experience building personalized detox programs for her patients.
Armistead has explained that most reputable heavy metal detox supplements are made with chelating agents, which are chemical compounds that bind to heavy metals in cells. When paired with other binders like chay, charcoal, or fibrous foods, chelators should help pull heavy metals out of the liver and kidney and excrete them through the urine or bowels.
Read on for our guide to finding the best heavy metal supplements for you, and be sure to head to the FAQ section for answers to all your pressing questions about diagnosing toxicity symptoms, lifestyle changes, detox supplements, and more.
Pros:
- Third-party tested for purity, safety, and efficacy
- Subscription plans available — new customers receive $50 off your first Zeolite Detox Pack
- Reviewers note increased energy, better sleep, and mental clarity
- Works in the gut and on the cellular level
- Only takes 30 seconds a day
Cons:
- More expensive than some other options, but quality justifies the cost
Looking for an effective detox program trusted by several doctors, backed by thousands of five-star reviews, and third-party tested for purity, safety, and efficacy? Look no further than the Zeolite Detox Pack from Touchstone Essentials, which incorporates unique activated hydrated zeolites for a whole-body detox while delivering beneficial minerals to the body at the same time.
Armistead has noted that a zeolite-based detox is a great option for a natural, effective cleanse. “[Pure Body] is a good-grade zeolite that helps detox at the cellular level,” she noted. “It’s a mineral that takes the place of the heavy metal, so as zeolite goes in and gets absorbed, heavy metal is pushed out of the cells.”
Two zeolite products work together for a full-body cleanse in the Zeolite Detox Pack. The Pure Body Natural Liquid Zeolite detoxes the gut, while the Pure Body Extra Natural Nanosized Zeolite supplement reaches the cellular level. Best of all, no mixing or pill popping is necessary. Simply use the tasteless drops and spray three times a day for a continuous detox.
Customers are saying: “Now when I wake up, I actually spring out of bed and I have never felt better! The mental clarity I have has helped me become more organized and focused and I feel young again as if I am starting a new life.”
Pros:
- Cilantro has natural chelation properties
- Reviewers noticed results faster than expected
- Ideal for people who dislike eating their greens
- A little goes a long way
Cons:
- Some people dislike the strong taste
Cilantro leaves have natural chelating properties, which means they can bind to heavy metals and pull them out through the body. Armistead points out that the Global Healing supplement incorporates cilantro and other greens (like parsley, alfalfa, and stinging nettles) that are good for detoxing, but she does have a few warnings about relying on cilantro alone.
“You would never want to use cilantro on its own,” suggested Armistead. “It can pull too many toxins up and out of the cells overwhelming your body, same for zeolite. So, using it with a binder helps actually get it out of the body. The cleavers in it support the lymph which it’s important in detoxing.”
The Global Healing Liquid is a powerful blend. Armistead suggests that one bottle should be enough for a heavy metal detox, and reviewers seem to agree that a little goes a long way. Some make note of the strong taste and mention a sudden increase in bowel movements after starting the cleanse. Overall, customers seem very pleased with the results.
Customers are saying: “In my opinion, the product really works; I have more energy and clearer thinking during and after taking it. However, you should understand that it’s not a stimulant; it simply releases your natural potential by detoxifying heavy metals.”
Pros:
- Incorporates all-natural, food-based organic ingredients
- Promotes healthy elimination
- Some reviewers mention it helped them lose weight and curb cravings
Cons:
- Up to 21 pills a day can be difficult for some people
- Two bottles recommended for a detox
The SP cleanse from Standard Process is another detox supplement recommended by Armistead. Many customers use this supplement alongside other diets for weight loss and detoxification. One of the major draws of this formula is the fact that the ingredients are primarily food-based and organic — such as organic barley, red clover, and cayenne pepper.
“The body knows how to use food to heal,” explained Armistead. “Because it is made from food, it is not as concentrated, so seven pills a day — which can be a lot for someone. Two bottles are recommended to do a deep detox so it’s for six weeks. It has liver, kidney, and gut support to help open detox pathways.”
The downside to this cleanse is that it does require users to take up to 21 pills a day, which can be split over breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Some reviewers mention a slight aftertaste, but many agree the results pay off. Multiple reviewers mention meeting major weight loss goals while using this supplement to detox.
Customers are saying: “Very dependable and easy to use product. I use this product twice a year as part of a sugar-elimination diet (15 days), and it is the perfect supplement to withhold cravings. I highly recommend this supplement as part of a weight loss or detox tool.”
Pros:
- Reviewers mention these pills are easy to swallow
- Some mention increased bowel movements
- Good value, considering the supply and price
Cons:
- Some people mentioned some stomach cramping
- Have to take many pills (up to 15) a day for the full effects
For those interested in using chlorella spirulina to detox, Good Natured offers a diverse vegan formula. Each tablet contains three phytonutrients, 10 minerals, 13 vitamins, and 18 amino acids that work together to support the body’s natural detox, boost energy, and assist with digestion.
“Chlorella and spirulina are binding agents that bind to heavy metals, so they don’t get reabsorbed,” shared Armistead, who has said that these capsules are an effective, yet budget-friendly option. “Chlorella and spirulina also support the liver which is needed to keep detox pathways open. One bag would be enough, so this is the cheapest option.”
Reviewers mention that these pills are very small and easy to swallow. However, the dosage does suggest ingesting about 15 a day, which may not be ideal for all. Those adverse to pills can opt for the powder version to mix into detox smoothies. At under $30, this is a good budget-friendly option for those interested in detoxing.
Customers are saying: “Very effective and high quality, easy to swallow, and affordable. I have noticed a significant decrease in brain fog [and] increased energy throughout the day. I believe it is improving my skin’s appearance.”
Pros:
- Helps with purifying the blood
- Some reviewers mention seeing improvements in skin and bloating
- Mixes into water easily
- Positive reviews on the taste
Cons:
- May need more than one bottle for a full detox, per experts
Armistead has pointed out that chlorophyll is also a solid choice for detoxing, as it binds to heavy metals and has a purifying effect. Not to mention, Sakara’s Detox Water Drops are made with top-quality natural chlorophyll from white mulberry leaves.
“It’s actually the same ingredient that makes chlorella and spirulina good binders and liver support,” said Armistead. “Think of it as concentrated chlorella or spirulina. Chlorophyll has the added bonus of also purifying the blood which is important in detoxing. If blood is carrying too many toxins one will get symptoms as mentioned above.”
Some liquid heavy metal detoxes taste less than stellar, but reviewers mention that Sakara’s Detox Water Drops taste pretty good and mix into any type of liquid, smoothies, or juice easily. Armistead recommends purchasing two bottles for a good heavy-metal detox.
Customers are saying: “I love this product! When I’m using it consistently, my gut health is better, and I notice a difference in my skin. It’s so easy to use. I’ll mix it with water, put it in smoothies, or use it in a yogurt bowl. It feels like a great way to support my nutrition goals and overall health.”
Pros:
- Includes aloe, which helps with bowel movements
- Includes binders
- Reviewers mention a reduction in bloating and improved energy
- Includes charcoal (natural detoxifier)
Cons:
- The expert recommends two bottles for a detox
- Some reviewers mention constipation and diarrhea
Biocidin Botanicals offers this broad-acting G.I. Detox+ to promote a more comfortable gut cleanse. The full-spectrum formula combines zeolites with other key ingredients, like clay, charcoal, silica, apple pectin, and aloe vera — which all help support the clearance of mold metabolites and support a whole-body gut cleanse.
Armistead especially likes that this formula combines zeolite with charcoal. “Zeolite moves toxins out of the cells. Charcoal binds to it and gets it out,” she explained. “It also has aloe in it, which helps with bowel movements to prevent constipation which we don’t want to occur with a detox because elimination is so important.”
She recommends two bottles for a full detox. While the majority of customers experienced little to no symptoms, a couple of reviewers did experience some stomach discomfort, including diarrhea and constipation. All in all, they found this to be a very effective detox supplement.
Customers are saying: “I love that it contains a blend of natural ingredients like activated charcoal and aloe vera, which are amazing detoxifiers. I’ve really seen a significant shift in my body’s daily regulation, and I’m so happy I decided to give it a try.”
Pros:
- Customers generally like the flavors of the shake
- Recipe directions are easy to follow
- Many reviewers mention feeling better in 10 days
Cons:
- More expensive than some detox programs
- Not technically a detox program, but offers ingredients that support detoxing
The Clear Change 10-Day Detox Program is designed to enhance the body’s natural metabolic detoxification process. The program includes a comprehensive menu plan and supplementation that offers additional metabolic detoxification and antioxidant support.
“A good support while doing a heavy metal detox,” suggested Armistead. “[Metagenics] has a bunch of vitamins and herbs to support the liver and open detox pathways but it does not do the actual pulling up of heavy metals or have any binding agents, so you would need to add those.”
Armistead says this plan is good to follow if you want to eat healthy during the detox, which is highly recommended for a better detox. However, she mentions that it may not be worth the price for individuals who have a hard time sticking to diets.
Customers are saying: “Some days were challenging with the number of fish dishes in a row and the lack of wine. I opted for vanilla and looked forward to the supplement part of the day. I finished the program and cannot remember the last time I felt this mentally clear, rested, and overall calm.”
Heavy Metal Detox FAQ
What are heavy metals and why are they dangerous?
There are a variety of heavy metals humans are exposed to through inhalation, ingestion, and contact with the skin. Small amounts of metals are completely normal and even support organ functioning. However, an accumulation of too many toxic heavy metals can be dangerous.
Examples of potentially dangerous heavy metals include lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium. Studies have shown that some of these heavy metals can accumulate in the body’s tissues and bind to cells, preventing them from functioning properly and causing harm to vital organs, the brain, and the liver.
What are the symptoms of heavy metal toxicity?
According to Armistead, individuals with heavy metal positioning could display a range of symptoms. There is no single image of what heavy metal poisoning looks like, as it depends on the levels and types of metals a person is exposed to.
“Symptoms of heavy metal toxicity include headaches, skin rashes, constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, irritability, brain fog, low immune system,” Armistead shared.
How is heavy metal toxicity diagnosed?
Besides evaluating symptoms, there are a few more accurate ways to diagnose heavy metal toxicity. Armistead has suggested a blood, urine, or hair analysis.
How should you detox from heavy metals?
There are a range of lifestyle changes that one might consider to reduce exposure to heavy metals. Armistead has suggested everything from eating better quality fish to lessen the likelihood of mercury ingestion to making sure your deodorant is aluminum-free and ensuring your makeup and toothpaste are free of titanium.
However, when it comes to a major heavy metal detox, Armistead opts for detox supplements combined with plenty of water (at least two liters a day) to help flush the metals out of the body.
“We support the body using supplements to pull heavy metals out of the cells and into the lymphatic system. The lymph carries it Into the bloodstream. The blood carries the heavy metal to the liver and kidneys to be detoxed and then excreted out through the urine or bowels,” she explained.
What are the best supplements for a heavy metal detox?
There are a variety of supplements, powders, and liquids with ingredients that support detoxing. Many are packed with foods like cilantro, garlic, wild blueberries, spirulina, chlorella, and green tea — which have natural properties that bind to heavy metals and remove them in the digestive process.
However, for a science-back solution, some may opt for a zeolite formula like the Zeolite Detox Pack from Touchstone Essentials. Zeolites are unique negatively-charged minerals that attract positively-charged products like heavy metals. That makes zeolites an excellent natural detoxifier.
Are there any potential detox side effects of heavy metal detoxing?
While side effects are not common, Armistead has explained that most are due to detoxing too fast and overwhelming the body.
“If the liver or kidneys are not detoxing them, or the intestines are not getting rid of them, toxins can just keep recirculating in the blood, causing headaches, skin rashes, constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, irritability, and brain fog,” she explained.
Armistead also noted that it can be confusing since some detox side effects actually overlap with toxicity side effects. She has suggested watching to see if symptoms get worse and taking fewer supplements to slow the detox if needed.
For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.
