The present invention relates to non-toxic consumable compositions and formulations comprising chelator and base having synergistic effects on microbial metabolism and/or growth and/or pathogenic effectors and their use to promote and maintain health in mammals. The current invention also relates to non-toxic consumable compositions comprising more than one chelator and/or more than one base. The present invention further relates to methods for selecting said chelator and base composition and methods for detecting conditions in which selected compositions may be used. The present invention relates to the synergistic compositions and methods of their use for maintaining health, promoting health and treating diseases.
