Zeolite

What is Zeolite?

Zeolite is a group of crystalline, hydrated alkali-aluminum silicates that occur naturally in sedimentary and volcanic rocks (1). It is formed through the chemical reaction between volcanic ash and seawater, a process that can take millions of years (5). Zeolites have a unique honeycomb-like structure with a large surface area, which enables them to act like molecular sieves and attract and bind with positively charged particles, such as heavy metals, toxins, and harmful chemicals (5). Some common types of zeolite include clinoptilolite, mordenite, analcime, chabazite, natrolite, and stilbite (6).

Health Benefits of Zeolite

Zeolite has been associated with various health benefits, although the clinical evidence supporting these claims remains limited. Some of the potential health benefits of zeolite include:

• Detoxification: Zeolite's structure allows it to attract and trap toxins, harmful chemicals, and pollutants, aiding the body in flushing out these substances and reducing the overall toxin burden (5)(6).

• Heavy metal removal: Zeolite's cage-like structure and negative charge enable it to attract, trap, and remove positively charged heavy metals, such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, from the body (5). This may help alleviate health complications associated with heavy metal toxicity (5).

• Elimination of carcinogens: Zeolite's ability to capture and eliminate toxins and free radicals may help prevent cellular damage and the formation of cancerous cells (1).

• Gut health support: Zeolite has been suggested to boost gut health by removing toxins and supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria (2)(6).

• Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties: Zeolite has been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help protect the body against free radical damage and reduce inflammation (2).

• pH balance: Zeolite has been marketed as a supplement to balance body pH, although there is limited scientific evidence to support this claim (3).

• Immune system support: Some sources suggest that zeolite may help strengthen the immune system, although more research is needed to confirm this (4).

While zeolite shows promise in various applications, it is essential to note that the FDA has issued several warning letters to distributors for misleading claims about zeolite products, and there are no published human data to support its use in treating cancer, autism, diarrhea, herpes, or hangovers (3). Additionally, erionite, a type of fibrous zeolite, can cause certain types of lung cancer when inhaled (3). Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using zeolite or any other dietary supplement.

Citations:
(1) https://protomfitness.co.uk/blog/2015/12/17/amazing-health-benefits-of-zeolites/
(2) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6515299/
(3) https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/zeolite
(4) https://thegoodinside.com/6-big-health-benefits-of-zeolite
(5) https://www.nourishmeorganics.com.au/blogs/nmo-gut-health-journal/everything-you-need-to-know-about-zeolite
(6) https://supplements.selfdecode.com/blog/zeolite-benefits/