MCP Serves as a Metal-Chelating Agent

HONGZHOU, China—Modified citrus pectin (MCP) proved to be a gentle, safe heavy metal-chelating agent for children, according to a study at the University School of Medicine, Hangzhou (Altern Ther Health Med. 2008;14(4):34-38). Hospitalized children ages 5 to 12 years, with a blood serum level of heavy metals greater than 20 μg/dL, as measured by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS), who had not received any form of chelating and/or detoxification medication for three months prior were given 15 g of MCP (as PectaSol®, from EcoNugenics) in three divided dosages a day. Blood serum and 24-hour urine excretion collection GFAAS analysis were performed on day 0, day 14, day 21, and day 28. There was a dramatic decrease in blood serum levels of lead (P=0.0016) and a dramatic increase in 24-hour urine collection (P=0.0007).