Last Updated on 1 June 2025 by Brisbane Livewell Clinic
Detoxing heavy metals from the body can take anywhere from several weeks to several months, depending on the type and amount of metals, your health, and the detox methods used. Working with a qualified Naturopath ensures the process is safe, effective and tailored to your individual needs.
“How long it takes to detox heavy metals from the body depends entirely on the person—we never rush the process. A safe, effective detox is guided by testing, tailored nutrients, and close monitoring by your Naturopath.” Dominique Johanson, Naturopath at Brisbane Livewell Clinic (Wavell Heights)
Introduction
Heavy metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium and arsenic can build up in the body over time, leading to a range of health concerns. These metals can affect energy, mood, memory, digestion and long-term wellbeing.
At Brisbane Livewell Clinic, we take a personalised approach to heavy metal detoxification. We don’t believe in off-the-shelf, one-size-fits-all detox plans. Instead, we design a structured, evidence-informed Wellness Plan tailored to your health history, symptoms and goals.
Do You Have Heavy Metal Toxicity?
Before beginning any detox, it’s important to know whether you actually have an excess of heavy metals in your body. Symptoms like fatigue, poor memory, low mood, digestive issues, skin changes, and chemical sensitivities may suggest toxicity—but they aren’t enough to diagnose it.
At Brisbane Livewell Clinic, our Naturopaths use functional testing to determine your toxic load. This may include hair mineral analysis, urine metal testing or blood markers, depending on your symptoms and history. These results allow us to identify what metals are present and in what amounts, so your detox plan is precise and effective.
If you’re concerned about heavy metal exposure, we recommend booking an Initial Naturopath Consultation. During your appointment, your practitioner will discuss your symptoms, possible sources of exposure, and whether you need testing. If test results confirm high levels of heavy metals, your Naturopath will prescribe a tailored detoxification program specific to your needs.
“When it comes to detoxing heavy metals, what works for one person could completely overwhelm another. That’s why testing and tailoring are non-negotiable steps in our process.” Dominique Johanson, Naturopath at Brisbane Livewell Clinic
This ensures you’re not detoxing unnecessarily—and that any treatment is safe, targeted and professionally supervised.
Understanding Heavy Metal Detoxification
Heavy metal detoxification means supporting the body to safely remove toxic metals through the liver, kidneys, bowel and skin. This helps reduce the burden on your system and restore better health.
Every patient requires a different approach based on their unique exposure history, current symptoms, test results, and response to treatment. Brisbane Livewell Clinic does not recommend, and our Naturopaths do not support, a one-size-fits-all non-tailored approach to detoxification. Detoxes based on generic advice or over-the-counter supplements can be too strong, ineffective, or even contraindicated if you’re taking medications or dealing with other health conditions.
How Long Does It Take to Detox Heavy Metals from the Body?
The time it takes to detox heavy metals varies from person to person. For some, a targeted three-week program focused on gentle dietary and lifestyle adjustments may be enough. For others with long-term accumulation or complex symptoms, detoxification may take several months and require staged treatment cycles.
The length and intensity of detoxification should always match your body’s ability to safely eliminate toxins. At Brisbane Livewell Clinic, our Naturopaths assess this carefully and adjust your plan to ensure sustainable progress without overwhelming your system.
Detoxing without guidance—especially with high-dose supplements purchased online or over the counter—can lead to mobilisation of toxins without effective clearance. This can increase symptoms, delay progress, and in some cases, be harmful. That’s why we only offer detox support that is tailored to your biochemistry, gut function, liver health and lifestyle capacity.
“Off-the-shelf detox kits often ignore key factors like liver function, gut health, and medication interactions. A personalised approach ensures we support the body gently but effectively.” Dominique Johanson, Naturopath, Brisbane Livewell Clinic
Factors Influencing Detox Duration
1. Type of Heavy Metal
Different metals behave differently in the body. Mercury and lead tend to be stored in bone and fat tissues, which makes them slower to remove. Arsenic clears more quickly, but can still interfere with energy production, skin health and immunity while present.
2. Level of Exposure
People with long-term occupational or environmental exposure often take longer to detox than someone who has had a single, short-term exposure. More metals in the system usually means a longer, more layered plan.
3. Individual Health Factors
Your overall health, liver and kidney function, ability to sweat, gut microbiome, and nutritional status all influence how quickly you can detox. Age, stress levels, sleep quality and hydration also play a role.
4. Detoxification Methods
The method chosen – whether it’s food-based, herbal, supplemental, or medically assisted (or a combination) – will change the timeframe. Slower approaches tend to be gentler and better tolerated.
Faster options such as chelation therapy can be effective but carry more risk and must be carefully supervised. Brisbane Livewell Clinic’s Naturopaths provide heavy metal chelation therapy through supplementation, not as an intravenous or medical drug therapy.
Typical Detox Timelines
Short-Term Detox (3–14 Days)
This suits people with minor exposure, good energy and healthy gut and liver function. The plan usually includes dietary changes, hydration, gentle herbal support and lifestyle changes.
Medium-Term Detox (1–3 Months)
This is for those with moderate symptoms or a known history of exposure through work, diet or water. The plan involves phased support for liver, bowel and kidney function, plus nutrient repletion and microbiome support.
Long-Term Detox (3–12 Months or More)
A longer plan is required for those with high toxicity, complex symptoms, or underlying health conditions. This may include functional testing, careful sequencing of herbal and nutrient protocols, and ongoing review of treatment effectiveness.
Detoxification Methods
1. Dietary Adjustments
Food is a powerful tool for natural detoxification. A plant-rich, anti-inflammatory diet high in antioxidants and fibre supports the liver, bowel and kidneys.
Some helpful additions include:
Leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables to support liver pathways
Cilantro, garlic and parsley to aid gentle metal mobilisation
Flaxseeds, chia and psyllium husk for bowel clearance
Adequate protein to fuel detoxification enzymes
2. Nutritional Supplementation
We may prescribe specific supplements to support your body’s detox capacity. These may include:
Chlorella or spirulina to bind to toxins in the gut
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) to boost the body’s glutathione stores
Alpha-lipoic acid to assist with metal mobilisation
Zinc, selenium and antioxidants to support cellular protection
B vitamins for energy and liver enzyme function
We do not recommend using these supplements without guidance. The wrong dose, timing or combination can be counterproductive.
Brisbane Livewell Clinic does not recommend, and our Naturopaths do not support, a one-size-fits-all non-tailored approach to detoxification. Off-the-shelf protocols fail to consider individual strength, gentleness, symptom reactivity, and interactions with medications.
3. Chelation Therapy and Naturopathic Chelation Support
Medical Chelation Therapy
This method uses prescription-grade chelating agents (such as EDTA or DMSA) administered under medical supervision to rapidly remove metals from the bloodstream. It is usually used in acute or confirmed toxic exposures.
Brisbane Livewell Clinic does not provide medical chelation therapy. This approach carries risks and must be monitored by a medical practitioner. Our Naturopaths do not recommend it except in medically justified cases and under appropriate supervision.
Naturopathic Chelation with Supplements
Instead, our Clinic recommends a naturopathic approach using herbal and nutritional chelators. This includes ingredients like chlorella, alpha-lipoic acid, and NAC that support natural elimination pathways.
Our Naturopaths use this approach because it allows for a personalised and monitored program. Each phase of the detox can be adjusted based on your health status and response. This reduces the risk of side effects and supports better long-term results.
Monitoring Progress
Your detox program needs regular review. At Brisbane Livewell Clinic, we do not provide generic detox plans. Our Naturopaths will work with you across each stage of the detox process to ensure your plan is working safely and effectively.
You may attend follow-up appointments to check in on symptoms, adjust supplement doses, and plan the next stage of treatment. We may repeat testing after a few months to assess your progress and confirm that heavy metal levels are decreasing. This ensures you receive personalised care every step of the way.
Book Your Heavy Metal Detoxification Consultation Today
“Detoxification isn’t just about removing toxins—it’s about supporting every system that’s involved in the process, so patients feel stronger, clearer and more energised as they go.” Dominique Johanson, Naturopath
Detoxing heavy metals from the body isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The timeframe depends on your body’s capacity, how much metal is present, and what methods are used. With the right support, many people begin to feel better within a few weeks—but full detoxification may take several months or longer in complex cases.
At Brisbane Livewell Clinic, we develop personalised heavy metal detox programs tailored to your needs. We don’t recommend generic detox kits or high-dose supplements without professional assessment. Our approach is gentle, practical and effective—helping you feel clearer, more energised and supported throughout your detox journey.
FAQs About How Long It Takes To Detox From Heavy Metals
1. How long does it take to detox heavy metals from the body?
The time it takes to detox heavy metals from the body depends on your exposure level, health status and detox methods. It can take anywhere from several weeks to over a year.
2. What are the signs of heavy metal toxicity?
The signs of heavy metal toxicity may include fatigue, skin issues, brain fog, digestive symptoms, poor memory or mood changes. Testing is required to confirm whether these symptoms are caused by heavy metals.
3. How can I find out if I have heavy metal toxicity?
To find out if you have heavy metal toxicity, a Naturopath can recommend functional tests such as hair analysis, urine metal tests or blood work. These tests help confirm the type and amount of metals in your system.
4. Can I detox heavy metals without testing first?
Detoxing without testing is not recommended because it may cause unnecessary or poorly targeted treatment. A professional assessment ensures the right treatment plan is used safely.
5. What is the difference between medical chelation and naturopathic chelation?
Medical chelation uses prescription chemicals to remove metals quickly, often in urgent cases. Naturopathic chelation is a slower, supplement-based approach that supports the body’s natural detox pathways.
6. Does Brisbane Livewell Clinic offer medical chelation therapy?
Brisbane Livewell Clinic does not offer medical chelation therapy. Our Naturopaths support a monitored, individualised detox using naturopathic methods only.
7. What supplements are used in naturopathic detox?
Supplements used in naturopathic detox may include chlorella, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid, zinc, selenium and B vitamins. These are selected based on your individual needs and test results.
8. Is it safe to detox heavy metals while taking medication?
Detoxing while on medication requires a carefully tailored plan to avoid interactions. A Naturopath will adjust your program to support detox without affecting your current treatment.
9. Can dietary changes help with heavy metal detox?
Dietary changes can support detox by reducing inflammatory load and improving liver and bowel function. Foods like cruciferous vegetables, garlic, fibre and herbs are often included.
10. How do heavy metals enter the body?
Heavy metals may enter the body through contaminated water, food, cookware, cosmetics, dental fillings or air pollution. Over time, they can accumulate if not cleared efficiently.
11. Will I feel worse before I feel better during detox?
Some people may experience temporary symptoms like tiredness or brain fog during detox. These effects are usually mild and can be managed with professional guidance.
12. How often should I be monitored during detox?
You should be monitored throughout the detox program to ensure it is safe and effective. Follow-up appointments and possible retesting help your Naturopath adjust the plan as needed.
13. What are the benefits of detoxing heavy metals?
The benefits of detoxing heavy metals may include improved energy, clearer thinking, better digestion and reduced inflammation. Each person’s results vary based on their initial metal load and health status.
Our Amazing Naturopaths at Brisbane Livewell Clinic
Shella Hall (Sunshine Coast and online)
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Nicole Odlum (Wavell Heights and online)
Dominique Johanson (Wavell Heights and online)
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