Metabolic Dysfunctions Associated with Copper Imbalance
ACNE
Acne is frequently associated with elevated copper levels, or a low imbalanced zinc/copper ratio.
ADRENO-CORTICAL HYPERACTIVITY
A low zinc/copper ratio is frequently related with adrenal-cortical hyperactivity.
ADRENAL HYPERTROPHY
The adrenal glands markedly increase in weight when the tissue levels of copper are high — this indicates excessive stress.
ADRENAL INSUFFICIENCY
Copper accumulates in the liver of adrenalectomized rats; thus severe adrenal insufficiency may be accompanied by increased tissue copper levels.
The release of copper from the liver is controlled by the adrenal glands through its influence on the synthesis of ceruloplasmin; the protein needed for its removal.
A copper deficiency results in an increased ascorbic acid content of the adrenal gland.
AGORAPHOBIA
A morbid dread of open spaces (agoraphobia) is often associated with copper toxicity. Phobias of various types are commonly associated with copper toxicity (see phobias).
ALLERGIES
Allergies are commonly associated with a copper toxicity problem inasmuch as copper biounavailability (deficiency) results in a reduced output of both adrenal mineral corticoid and glucocorticoid hormones. These hormones normally help control allergy reactions.
ALOPECIA (Hair Loss)
Copper toxicity causes an excessive breakdown of all protein structures, including hair and nails. This is due in part, to a destructive effect on the disulfide bonds of proteins. Copper imbalance also inhibits an enzyme required for collagen synthesis — lysal oxidase.
ANDROGENS
A low copper level, particularly an elevated zinc/copper ratio, suggests increased androgen secretion.
ANEMIA
A high copper/molybdenum ratio may contribute to iron deficiency anemias and possibly cause iron-storage disease.
Several anemias which do not respond to iron therapy have been found to be associated with biounavailable copper. Copper is required to convert iron from the ferric to ferrous form so it can be utilized. Copper is also required to incorporate iron into the hemoglobin molecule.
High tissue copper levels can cause a relative manganese deficiency. Manganese is necessary to stimulate hemoglobin formation; thus anemia can result from a copper-induced deficiency of manganese.
ANXIETY
Anxiety states are frequently associated with elevated hair copper levels. This may be due to an excessive production of stimulatory neurotransmitters (catecholamines), which include epinephrine, norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine.
Zinc deficiency due to copper toxicity can also result in anxiety states.
ARTHRITIS
Copper levels in the synovial fluid of patients with rheumatoid arthritis are three or more times as high as normal.
A high tissue copper level is frequently associated with osteoarthritis. Copper tends to enhance calcium retention in body tissues. Excessive copper also has a destructive effect upon protein structures such as joint cartilages.
AUTISM
"Normally, the liver produces the normal copper protein, ceruloplasmin, which stores copper in the blood serum and prevents excess absorption. Ferritin, the iron-containing protein is made similarly.
Any abnormality which results in inadequate ceruloplasmin, or ferritin, could allow excess copper or iron to be absorbed, which would affect the brain. Both of these metals (copper and iron) are stimulants to the brain and might produce hyperactivity and/or autism." (Pfeiffer)
CALCIUM LEVEL, ELEVATED
A hair calcium level above 120.00 mg% indicates a biounavailability of calcium. High calcium levels are frequently associated with elevated copper levels.
An elevated calcium level is frequently the result of a manganese deficiency caused by elevated copper levels.
CANCER AND HIGH TISSUE COPPER
In adult life, chronic tissue zinc and vitamin B6 deficiencies due to copper toxicity may predispose cells to cancerous change.
Changes in serum copper concentrations with reticuloendothelial cancers are predictive of remissions and relapses. The copper levels rise during active phases of the malignancies and drop back to normal limits during remissions.
CANCER AND LOW TISSUE COPPER
A possible role for dietary copper in the metabolism of foreign compounds was first suggested by Sharpless in 1946. He observed that the addition of a copper supplement to the diet of rats had a marked protective effect against the hepatocarcinogenic action of the dye butter yellow (i.e.,4 dimethyl aminoazo benzene). Yamane et al.have demonstrated that this protective effect of copper is associated with the stimulation of the hepatic metabolism of this aminoazo dye to noncarcinogenic metabolites.
Acne is frequently associated with elevated copper levels, or a low imbalanced zinc/copper ratio.
ADRENO-CORTICAL HYPERACTIVITY
A low zinc/copper ratio is frequently related with adrenal-cortical hyperactivity.
ADRENAL HYPERTROPHY
The adrenal glands markedly increase in weight when the tissue levels of copper are high — this indicates excessive stress.
ADRENAL INSUFFICIENCY
Copper accumulates in the liver of adrenalectomized rats; thus severe adrenal insufficiency may be accompanied by increased tissue copper levels.
The release of copper from the liver is controlled by the adrenal glands through its influence on the synthesis of ceruloplasmin; the protein needed for its removal.
A copper deficiency results in an increased ascorbic acid content of the adrenal gland.
AGORAPHOBIA
A morbid dread of open spaces (agoraphobia) is often associated with copper toxicity. Phobias of various types are commonly associated with copper toxicity (see phobias).
ALLERGIES
Allergies are commonly associated with a copper toxicity problem inasmuch as copper biounavailability (deficiency) results in a reduced output of both adrenal mineral corticoid and glucocorticoid hormones. These hormones normally help control allergy reactions.
ALOPECIA (Hair Loss)
Copper toxicity causes an excessive breakdown of all protein structures, including hair and nails. This is due in part, to a destructive effect on the disulfide bonds of proteins. Copper imbalance also inhibits an enzyme required for collagen synthesis — lysal oxidase.
ANDROGENS
A low copper level, particularly an elevated zinc/copper ratio, suggests increased androgen secretion.
ANEMIA
A high copper/molybdenum ratio may contribute to iron deficiency anemias and possibly cause iron-storage disease.
Several anemias which do not respond to iron therapy have been found to be associated with biounavailable copper. Copper is required to convert iron from the ferric to ferrous form so it can be utilized. Copper is also required to incorporate iron into the hemoglobin molecule.
High tissue copper levels can cause a relative manganese deficiency. Manganese is necessary to stimulate hemoglobin formation; thus anemia can result from a copper-induced deficiency of manganese.
ANXIETY
Anxiety states are frequently associated with elevated hair copper levels. This may be due to an excessive production of stimulatory neurotransmitters (catecholamines), which include epinephrine, norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine.
Zinc deficiency due to copper toxicity can also result in anxiety states.
ARTHRITIS
Copper levels in the synovial fluid of patients with rheumatoid arthritis are three or more times as high as normal.
A high tissue copper level is frequently associated with osteoarthritis. Copper tends to enhance calcium retention in body tissues. Excessive copper also has a destructive effect upon protein structures such as joint cartilages.
AUTISM
"Normally, the liver produces the normal copper protein, ceruloplasmin, which stores copper in the blood serum and prevents excess absorption. Ferritin, the iron-containing protein is made similarly.
Any abnormality which results in inadequate ceruloplasmin, or ferritin, could allow excess copper or iron to be absorbed, which would affect the brain. Both of these metals (copper and iron) are stimulants to the brain and might produce hyperactivity and/or autism." (Pfeiffer)
CALCIUM LEVEL, ELEVATED
A hair calcium level above 120.00 mg% indicates a biounavailability of calcium. High calcium levels are frequently associated with elevated copper levels.
An elevated calcium level is frequently the result of a manganese deficiency caused by elevated copper levels.
CANCER AND HIGH TISSUE COPPER
In adult life, chronic tissue zinc and vitamin B6 deficiencies due to copper toxicity may predispose cells to cancerous change.
Changes in serum copper concentrations with reticuloendothelial cancers are predictive of remissions and relapses. The copper levels rise during active phases of the malignancies and drop back to normal limits during remissions.
CANCER AND LOW TISSUE COPPER
A possible role for dietary copper in the metabolism of foreign compounds was first suggested by Sharpless in 1946. He observed that the addition of a copper supplement to the diet of rats had a marked protective effect against the hepatocarcinogenic action of the dye butter yellow (i.e.,4 dimethyl aminoazo benzene). Yamane et al.have demonstrated that this protective effect of copper is associated with the stimulation of the hepatic metabolism of this aminoazo dye to noncarcinogenic metabolites.
CANDIDA ALBICANS (Yeast Infections)
Copper is a stimulant to oxidative or aerobic metabolism. A copper biounavailability, deficiency, or imbalance, often results in a tendency towards yeast infections.
Copper compounds are used commercially to inhibit growth of yeast and fungi.
CERULOPLASMIN LEVELS, ELEVATED
Elevated High copper tissue levels are associated with or indicative of increased ceruloplasmin levels. Conditions that are associated with elevated ceruloplasmin levels include myocardial infarctions, lymphomas and rheumatoid arthritis.
CHOLESTEROL, ELEVATED
When copper levels in the blood rise, fat levels decrease. Any contaminant that depresses copper and zinc, such as cadmium in the case of zinc, may cause elevated levels of lipids.
CLINICAL SYNDROMES
"The clinical syndromes (other than Wilson's disease) wherein elevated serum or tissue copper may be an important factor are paranoid and hallucinatory schizophrenia, hypertension, preeclampsia, stuttering, autism, childhood hyperactivity, premenstrual tensions, psychiatric depression, insomnia, senility and possibly functional hypoglycemia." (Pfeiffer)
CYSTIC FIBROSIS
Unusually large amounts of copper have been found in the fingernails of infants with cystic fibrosis.
DEPRESSION
Mental Mental depression is frequently associated with elevated tissue copper levels. An elevated copper level reduces tissue manganese levels which may result in depression.
Adequate copper is necessary for activation of biogenic amines. A deficiency of biogenic amines is frequently associated with mental depression.
DIABETES
Diabetes is frequently associated with elevated tissue copper levels. Excess copper frequently reduces zinc and manganese levels, thereby interfering with glucose metabolism.
DYSINSULINISM
Dysinsulinism is frequently associated with elevated copper levels. An excess of tissue copper reduces zinc and manganese values, thereby interfering with glucose metabolism.
ESTROGEN LEVELS
Elevated Elevated copper levels often accompany elevated estrogens levels. A low tissue copper level frequently indicates a low estrogen level. This is particularly so when the zinc/copper ratio exceeds 12.00/l.
Administration of estrogens markedly increases both serum copper and ceruloplasmin concentrations.
'FAILURE TO THRIVE' SYNDROME
Zinc deficiency and copper toxicity are intimately associated with developmental disability and failure the thrive syndromes.
Adequate levels of zinc are essential for protein synthesis, growth and development.
FEARS
Excessive tissue copper levels are commonly associated with a wide variety of fears. Often, as copper is eliminated from tissue storage, one becomes increasingly aware of these fears and as a result, they are released.
FRACTURES, BONE
Bone fractures are frequently associated with an elevated copper level.
HEADACHES
Migraine Elevated copper levels are frequently associated with migraine headaches.
HEART ATTACKS
A high tissue copper level, by causing a zinc deficiency, predisposes one to hypertension, heart attacks and strokes.
Copper deficiency results in sudden death from heart failure in livestock. The cattle suffer from anemia first.
HEAVY METALS TOXICITY
Heavy metal poisoning frequently accompanies copper toxicity. A copper imbalance can contribute to heavy metal poisoning by slowing the rate of metabolism, thereby reducing the body's ability to detoxify heavy metals.
Conversely, such metals as lead and mercury may interfere with the synthesis of ceruloplasmin or ferritin, contributing to copper toxicity problems.
HEMORRHAGING
Hemorrhaging on the surface of the heart is commonly associated with a copper deficiency.
HODGKIN'S DISEASE
Copper scores have proved to be a particularly sensitive index in Hodgkin's disease.
HYPERACTIVITY, CHILDHOOD
Both copper and iron are stimulants to the brain. For this reason, both of these elements might play a role in the causation of hyperactivity and/or autism.
HYPERTENSION
A high tissue copper level, by causing a zinc deficiency, predisposes one to hypertension, heart attacks and strokes.
Excessive aldosterone, a mineralocorticoid hormone which is produced by the adrenal cortex, is frequently responsible for elevated blood pressure, by raising sodium levels. Copper frequently raises sodium levels, indicating that copper has a stimulating effect on aldosterone levels.
HYPOGLYCEMIA
Functional hypoglycemia is frequently associated with elevated tissue copper levels. An excess of tissue copper reduces manganese and zinc, thereby interfering with normal glucose metabolism.
HYPOTHYROIDISM
An elevated copper tissue level is frequently associated with hypothyroidism, particularly when the zinc/copper ratio is greater than 10.00/1. The ideal zinc/copper ratio is 8.00/1.
INFECTIONS
A tissue zinc/copper ratio of less than 4.00/1 is frequently associated with an increased susceptibility to bacterial and viral infections. Copper toxicity may predispose to infections by displacing zinc.
Normally, to combat infections, copper is mobilized from the liver. If copper is biounavailable and cannot be mobilized, susceptibility to infections increases.
INFLAMMATION
Inflammation is commonly associated with an elevated tissue copper level, particularly when the sodium/potassium ratio is greater than 6.00/l.
Copper frequently acts as an analgesic and may rise in response to an inflammatory process. Copper combined with aspirin, for example, increases the pain-alleviating qualities of aspirin. However, copper's destructive effect upon protein structures can also cause inflammation in certain cases.
Iron Storage Diseases The trace metal pattern of iron-storage disease suggests a relationship of iron, molybdenum, lead and possibly copper as a cause of these diseases.
KIDNEY DISORDERS
Kidney dysfunction is frequently associated with a zinc/copper ratio of less than 5.00/l. The kidney problems are primarily due to displacement of zinc by copper.
LEAD TOXICITY
A low tissue copper level is frequently associated with an elevated lead level. It has been established that lead blocks copper enzymatic reactions. The blocking of enzymatic reactions has serious ramifications on many of life's most vital processes such as;
A high tissue copper level, or a low zinc/copper ratio is frequently associated with a decreased libido.
LIVER DETOXIFICATION & DYSFUNCTIONS
A high level of tissue copper, or a low zinc/copper ratio (below 4.00/1) impairs the liver's ability to detoxify.
Excessive copper, by lowering manganese, permits iron deposition in the liver resulting in liver dysfunction.
A copper deficiency, as indicated by a low tissue copper level, also interferes with the ability of the liver to detoxify.
Alterations in dietary copper intake might modify the toxicity of various foreign chemicals which are activated or detoxified by hepatic microsomal enzyme systems.
METABOLIC DYSFUNCTIONS
Metabolic diseases associated with elevated copper levels are:
Although many factors are involved as causative factors of multiple sclerosis, a common contributing factor may well be a low tissue copper level or a low copper level relative to some other metal such as zinc. Demyelination of nerves is known to result from a copper deficiency.
Cases of multiple sclerosis, all of which had in common a dietary exposure to lead, have been reported. Lead adversely alters copper metabolism as one aspect of its toxicity.
MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION: HIGH SERUM COPPER LEVELS & USE OF THE BIRTH CONTROL PILL
The copper level of the heart is higher than normal in those dying from heart attacks. Elevated serum copper due to use of the birth control pill may explain the higher heart attack rate of users of the pill.
NERVOUSNESS
Excessive biogenic amine levels are frequently associated with elevated tissue copper levels. An excess of biogenic amines is frequently responsible for nervousness, hypertension, etc.
HIGH COPPER & OSTEOPOROSIS
An excessive level of copper can result in a manganese deficiency. A manganese deficiency is one of the principal causes of loss of calcium from the bone. The end result is osteoporosis.
LOW COPPER & OSTEOPOROSIS
Adequate levels of estrogen appear to counteract osteoporosis. Low tissue copper levels are commonly associated with low estrogen levels.
OVARIAN DYSFUNCTION
A zinc/copper ratio of less than 4.00/l is frequently associated with ovarian dysfunction.
PANCREATIC DYSFUNCTION
Pancreatic dysfunction is frequently associated with elevated copper levels. Normal pancreatic function is highly dependent upon zinc and manganese, both of which are displaced by excessive levels of copper.
PANIC ATTACKS
Panic attacks are highly associated with copper toxicity. Zinc deficiency due to copper excess may contribute to this problem.
PANTOTHENIC ACID
Deficiency Excessive copper levels have been associated with low levels of pantothenic acid.
PHOBIAS
Fears and phobias are commonly associated with copper toxicity. Fear may reduce adrenal gland activity, which causes a rise in copper levels.
Conversely, copper can affect thyroid and adrenal gland activity and induce anxiety feelings. Zinc deficiency due to copper toxicity may also play a role.
PITUITARY HYPERACTIVITY
A zinc/copper ratio less than 4.1 may be associated with anterior pituitary hyperactivity.
PREMENSTRUAL TENSION
Premenstrual tension is frequently the result of a high tissue concentration of copper, especially when the zinc level in the tissues is depressed.
SCHIZOPHRENIA
Pfeiffer and others have postulated that excessive copper and iron and/or zinc and manganese deficiency states are primary factors in one type of schizophrenia, namely histapenia.
Histaminase is a copper containing enzyme and both histaminase and ceruloplasmin can destroy histamines. Therefore, patients with high serum copper and ceruloplasmin levels have low levels of blood histamine. The histapenic individual responds to treatment which rids the body of excess copper and builds-up blood and tissue histamine.
"A possible factor in some of the schizophrenias is a combined deficiency of zinc and manganese, with a relative increase in iron and copper or both. The urinary copper excretion in schizophrenics is consistently less than in normal patients; zinc plus manganese in dietary doses is effective in increasing copper elimination and reducing copper to normal levels." (Pfeiffer)
Schizophrenia is not uncommon when the zinc/copper ratio is less than 3.00/l.
SEXUAL INADEQUACY
Sexual inadequacy is frequently the result of excess copper in the tissues, resulting in a zinc deficiency.
STROKES
A high tissue copper level, by causing a relative zinc deficiency, predisposes one to hypertension, heart attacks and strokes.
TOOTH DECAY
High levels of lead, copper, zinc and chromium in the body tissues may tend to increase the tooth's susceptibility to decay.
URINARY TRACT INFECTION
Elevated copper levels are frequently associated with urinary tract infections.
VITAMIN DEFICIENCIES
The following vitamin deficiencies in the body may be caused by a copper deficiency: vitamin C, inositol, folic acid, vitamin B6 and rutin.
Copper is a stimulant to oxidative or aerobic metabolism. A copper biounavailability, deficiency, or imbalance, often results in a tendency towards yeast infections.
Copper compounds are used commercially to inhibit growth of yeast and fungi.
CERULOPLASMIN LEVELS, ELEVATED
Elevated High copper tissue levels are associated with or indicative of increased ceruloplasmin levels. Conditions that are associated with elevated ceruloplasmin levels include myocardial infarctions, lymphomas and rheumatoid arthritis.
CHOLESTEROL, ELEVATED
When copper levels in the blood rise, fat levels decrease. Any contaminant that depresses copper and zinc, such as cadmium in the case of zinc, may cause elevated levels of lipids.
CLINICAL SYNDROMES
"The clinical syndromes (other than Wilson's disease) wherein elevated serum or tissue copper may be an important factor are paranoid and hallucinatory schizophrenia, hypertension, preeclampsia, stuttering, autism, childhood hyperactivity, premenstrual tensions, psychiatric depression, insomnia, senility and possibly functional hypoglycemia." (Pfeiffer)
CYSTIC FIBROSIS
Unusually large amounts of copper have been found in the fingernails of infants with cystic fibrosis.
DEPRESSION
Mental Mental depression is frequently associated with elevated tissue copper levels. An elevated copper level reduces tissue manganese levels which may result in depression.
Adequate copper is necessary for activation of biogenic amines. A deficiency of biogenic amines is frequently associated with mental depression.
DIABETES
Diabetes is frequently associated with elevated tissue copper levels. Excess copper frequently reduces zinc and manganese levels, thereby interfering with glucose metabolism.
DYSINSULINISM
Dysinsulinism is frequently associated with elevated copper levels. An excess of tissue copper reduces zinc and manganese values, thereby interfering with glucose metabolism.
ESTROGEN LEVELS
Elevated Elevated copper levels often accompany elevated estrogens levels. A low tissue copper level frequently indicates a low estrogen level. This is particularly so when the zinc/copper ratio exceeds 12.00/l.
Administration of estrogens markedly increases both serum copper and ceruloplasmin concentrations.
'FAILURE TO THRIVE' SYNDROME
Zinc deficiency and copper toxicity are intimately associated with developmental disability and failure the thrive syndromes.
Adequate levels of zinc are essential for protein synthesis, growth and development.
FEARS
Excessive tissue copper levels are commonly associated with a wide variety of fears. Often, as copper is eliminated from tissue storage, one becomes increasingly aware of these fears and as a result, they are released.
FRACTURES, BONE
Bone fractures are frequently associated with an elevated copper level.
HEADACHES
Migraine Elevated copper levels are frequently associated with migraine headaches.
HEART ATTACKS
A high tissue copper level, by causing a zinc deficiency, predisposes one to hypertension, heart attacks and strokes.
Copper deficiency results in sudden death from heart failure in livestock. The cattle suffer from anemia first.
HEAVY METALS TOXICITY
Heavy metal poisoning frequently accompanies copper toxicity. A copper imbalance can contribute to heavy metal poisoning by slowing the rate of metabolism, thereby reducing the body's ability to detoxify heavy metals.
Conversely, such metals as lead and mercury may interfere with the synthesis of ceruloplasmin or ferritin, contributing to copper toxicity problems.
HEMORRHAGING
Hemorrhaging on the surface of the heart is commonly associated with a copper deficiency.
HODGKIN'S DISEASE
Copper scores have proved to be a particularly sensitive index in Hodgkin's disease.
HYPERACTIVITY, CHILDHOOD
Both copper and iron are stimulants to the brain. For this reason, both of these elements might play a role in the causation of hyperactivity and/or autism.
HYPERTENSION
A high tissue copper level, by causing a zinc deficiency, predisposes one to hypertension, heart attacks and strokes.
Excessive aldosterone, a mineralocorticoid hormone which is produced by the adrenal cortex, is frequently responsible for elevated blood pressure, by raising sodium levels. Copper frequently raises sodium levels, indicating that copper has a stimulating effect on aldosterone levels.
HYPOGLYCEMIA
Functional hypoglycemia is frequently associated with elevated tissue copper levels. An excess of tissue copper reduces manganese and zinc, thereby interfering with normal glucose metabolism.
HYPOTHYROIDISM
An elevated copper tissue level is frequently associated with hypothyroidism, particularly when the zinc/copper ratio is greater than 10.00/1. The ideal zinc/copper ratio is 8.00/1.
INFECTIONS
A tissue zinc/copper ratio of less than 4.00/1 is frequently associated with an increased susceptibility to bacterial and viral infections. Copper toxicity may predispose to infections by displacing zinc.
Normally, to combat infections, copper is mobilized from the liver. If copper is biounavailable and cannot be mobilized, susceptibility to infections increases.
INFLAMMATION
Inflammation is commonly associated with an elevated tissue copper level, particularly when the sodium/potassium ratio is greater than 6.00/l.
Copper frequently acts as an analgesic and may rise in response to an inflammatory process. Copper combined with aspirin, for example, increases the pain-alleviating qualities of aspirin. However, copper's destructive effect upon protein structures can also cause inflammation in certain cases.
Iron Storage Diseases The trace metal pattern of iron-storage disease suggests a relationship of iron, molybdenum, lead and possibly copper as a cause of these diseases.
KIDNEY DISORDERS
Kidney dysfunction is frequently associated with a zinc/copper ratio of less than 5.00/l. The kidney problems are primarily due to displacement of zinc by copper.
LEAD TOXICITY
A low tissue copper level is frequently associated with an elevated lead level. It has been established that lead blocks copper enzymatic reactions. The blocking of enzymatic reactions has serious ramifications on many of life's most vital processes such as;
- normal functioning of the Krebs Cycle,
- production of biogenic amines such as dopamine, adrenalin, nor-adrenalin and serotonin,formation of thyroxin and
- formation of thyroxin and
- production of the amino acid lysine, etc.
A high tissue copper level, or a low zinc/copper ratio is frequently associated with a decreased libido.
LIVER DETOXIFICATION & DYSFUNCTIONS
A high level of tissue copper, or a low zinc/copper ratio (below 4.00/1) impairs the liver's ability to detoxify.
Excessive copper, by lowering manganese, permits iron deposition in the liver resulting in liver dysfunction.
A copper deficiency, as indicated by a low tissue copper level, also interferes with the ability of the liver to detoxify.
Alterations in dietary copper intake might modify the toxicity of various foreign chemicals which are activated or detoxified by hepatic microsomal enzyme systems.
METABOLIC DYSFUNCTIONS
Metabolic diseases associated with elevated copper levels are:
- Hyperactivity
- Psychosis
- Depression, psychiatric
- Atherosclerosis
- Functional Hypoglycemia
- Stuttering
- Premenstrual Syndrome
- Senility
Although many factors are involved as causative factors of multiple sclerosis, a common contributing factor may well be a low tissue copper level or a low copper level relative to some other metal such as zinc. Demyelination of nerves is known to result from a copper deficiency.
Cases of multiple sclerosis, all of which had in common a dietary exposure to lead, have been reported. Lead adversely alters copper metabolism as one aspect of its toxicity.
MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION: HIGH SERUM COPPER LEVELS & USE OF THE BIRTH CONTROL PILL
The copper level of the heart is higher than normal in those dying from heart attacks. Elevated serum copper due to use of the birth control pill may explain the higher heart attack rate of users of the pill.
NERVOUSNESS
Excessive biogenic amine levels are frequently associated with elevated tissue copper levels. An excess of biogenic amines is frequently responsible for nervousness, hypertension, etc.
HIGH COPPER & OSTEOPOROSIS
An excessive level of copper can result in a manganese deficiency. A manganese deficiency is one of the principal causes of loss of calcium from the bone. The end result is osteoporosis.
LOW COPPER & OSTEOPOROSIS
Adequate levels of estrogen appear to counteract osteoporosis. Low tissue copper levels are commonly associated with low estrogen levels.
OVARIAN DYSFUNCTION
A zinc/copper ratio of less than 4.00/l is frequently associated with ovarian dysfunction.
PANCREATIC DYSFUNCTION
Pancreatic dysfunction is frequently associated with elevated copper levels. Normal pancreatic function is highly dependent upon zinc and manganese, both of which are displaced by excessive levels of copper.
PANIC ATTACKS
Panic attacks are highly associated with copper toxicity. Zinc deficiency due to copper excess may contribute to this problem.
PANTOTHENIC ACID
Deficiency Excessive copper levels have been associated with low levels of pantothenic acid.
PHOBIAS
Fears and phobias are commonly associated with copper toxicity. Fear may reduce adrenal gland activity, which causes a rise in copper levels.
Conversely, copper can affect thyroid and adrenal gland activity and induce anxiety feelings. Zinc deficiency due to copper toxicity may also play a role.
PITUITARY HYPERACTIVITY
A zinc/copper ratio less than 4.1 may be associated with anterior pituitary hyperactivity.
PREMENSTRUAL TENSION
Premenstrual tension is frequently the result of a high tissue concentration of copper, especially when the zinc level in the tissues is depressed.
SCHIZOPHRENIA
Pfeiffer and others have postulated that excessive copper and iron and/or zinc and manganese deficiency states are primary factors in one type of schizophrenia, namely histapenia.
Histaminase is a copper containing enzyme and both histaminase and ceruloplasmin can destroy histamines. Therefore, patients with high serum copper and ceruloplasmin levels have low levels of blood histamine. The histapenic individual responds to treatment which rids the body of excess copper and builds-up blood and tissue histamine.
"A possible factor in some of the schizophrenias is a combined deficiency of zinc and manganese, with a relative increase in iron and copper or both. The urinary copper excretion in schizophrenics is consistently less than in normal patients; zinc plus manganese in dietary doses is effective in increasing copper elimination and reducing copper to normal levels." (Pfeiffer)
Schizophrenia is not uncommon when the zinc/copper ratio is less than 3.00/l.
SEXUAL INADEQUACY
Sexual inadequacy is frequently the result of excess copper in the tissues, resulting in a zinc deficiency.
STROKES
A high tissue copper level, by causing a relative zinc deficiency, predisposes one to hypertension, heart attacks and strokes.
TOOTH DECAY
High levels of lead, copper, zinc and chromium in the body tissues may tend to increase the tooth's susceptibility to decay.
URINARY TRACT INFECTION
Elevated copper levels are frequently associated with urinary tract infections.
VITAMIN DEFICIENCIES
The following vitamin deficiencies in the body may be caused by a copper deficiency: vitamin C, inositol, folic acid, vitamin B6 and rutin.
Detoxification & Correction of Copper Imbalance
Correction of a copper imbalance is accomplished by the following:
EXPOSURE TO COPPER
Remove sources of exposure, including birth control pills, copper IUD's, contaminated water supplies and copper-rich diets.
Strict vegetarian diets are to be avoided, when possible, because of the high copper content of nuts, seeds, beans and grains. However, the copper-toxic individual may require a vegetarian-type diet for a period of time until he is able to adequately digest and assimilate animal protein.
Junk-food diets contribute to copper imbalance because they are low in zinc, manganese and other essential elements which are required for optimal adrenal gland activity. Deficiency of these nutrients therefore contributes to a detrimental buildup of excess copper.
RESTORE ADRENAL ACTIVITY
Restore normal adrenal gland activity through nutrition and positive lifestyle changes.
Lifestyle
A reduction in stressful activity is advisable. Adequate rest, sleep and avoiding excessive exercise is beneficial.
Enhancing adrenal gland activity is aided by a tissue mineral analysis. This test provides an indication of adrenal activity; trace mineral deficiencies and toxic metals which serve to interfere with normal adrenal activity.
Nutritional supplement programs to enhance adrenal activity should include vitamin C and E, manganese, pantothenic acid and adrenal glandular substance. Specific dosages depend on individual cases.
A major goal of the nutritional supplement program is to balance the oxidation rate, which increases the body's adaptive energy thus allowing healing to take place. That is; internal stress on the body is removed by nutritional balancing, allowing the adrenal glands to return to more normal functioning.
INCREASE ENERGY LEVELS BY BALANCING BODY CHEMISTRY
Optimizing energy levels is essential to enable the body to eliminate toxic metals; including copper. This is best accomplished by balancing the oxidation rate as indicated on a hair analysis, using precise supplementation as indicated on the test.
ANTAGONISTS & CHELATION AGENTS
Copper-lowering agents may be given, including mineral and vitamin antagonists, chelating agents and sequestrants. Specific nutrient antagonists and chelators are helpful depending on the individual's mineral balance.
These include vitamin C, molybdenum, sulfur, vitamin B6, manganese, zinc and others. These nutrients need to be given in a manner that contributes to balancing the overall body chemistry.
EXPOSURE TO COPPER
Remove sources of exposure, including birth control pills, copper IUD's, contaminated water supplies and copper-rich diets.
Strict vegetarian diets are to be avoided, when possible, because of the high copper content of nuts, seeds, beans and grains. However, the copper-toxic individual may require a vegetarian-type diet for a period of time until he is able to adequately digest and assimilate animal protein.
Junk-food diets contribute to copper imbalance because they are low in zinc, manganese and other essential elements which are required for optimal adrenal gland activity. Deficiency of these nutrients therefore contributes to a detrimental buildup of excess copper.
RESTORE ADRENAL ACTIVITY
Restore normal adrenal gland activity through nutrition and positive lifestyle changes.
Lifestyle
A reduction in stressful activity is advisable. Adequate rest, sleep and avoiding excessive exercise is beneficial.
Enhancing adrenal gland activity is aided by a tissue mineral analysis. This test provides an indication of adrenal activity; trace mineral deficiencies and toxic metals which serve to interfere with normal adrenal activity.
Nutritional supplement programs to enhance adrenal activity should include vitamin C and E, manganese, pantothenic acid and adrenal glandular substance. Specific dosages depend on individual cases.
A major goal of the nutritional supplement program is to balance the oxidation rate, which increases the body's adaptive energy thus allowing healing to take place. That is; internal stress on the body is removed by nutritional balancing, allowing the adrenal glands to return to more normal functioning.
INCREASE ENERGY LEVELS BY BALANCING BODY CHEMISTRY
Optimizing energy levels is essential to enable the body to eliminate toxic metals; including copper. This is best accomplished by balancing the oxidation rate as indicated on a hair analysis, using precise supplementation as indicated on the test.
ANTAGONISTS & CHELATION AGENTS
Copper-lowering agents may be given, including mineral and vitamin antagonists, chelating agents and sequestrants. Specific nutrient antagonists and chelators are helpful depending on the individual's mineral balance.
These include vitamin C, molybdenum, sulfur, vitamin B6, manganese, zinc and others. These nutrients need to be given in a manner that contributes to balancing the overall body chemistry.
- Note: There are times when it is not advisable to lower copper levels beyond a certain point. In these cases, a high copper level is serving as an adaptive mechanism.
Special Considerations Regarding Copper Detoxification
DIET FOR THE COPPER TOXIC INDIVIDUAL
Copper-toxic individuals frequently have an aversion to eating protein, particularly red meat. It is important for such individuals to eat some protein at least twice a day, even if the quantity is small, otherwise progress is delayed. Strict vegetarian diets are not advisable, but may be necessary for a period of time in severe cases.
Many copper-toxic individuals have an insatiable craving for sweets, fruit and fruit juices. Such items should be limited as much as possible for optimal results. In many cases, a high carbohydrate diet is necessary until adrenal activity is increased.
THE TIME FACTOR
Six months to several years may be required to correct a copper imbalance, depending on the severity of the copper toxicity problem.
COPPER REACTIONS (Copper Elimination)
During the correction of a copper imbalance, copper elimination frequently causes transient symptoms including headache, skin rash, free-floating anxiety, insomnia, fatigue and a flare-up of chronic conditions related to a copper imbalance.
These reactions generally last a day or two and then subside. The supplement program may be temporarily reduced if a symptom becomes particularly annoying. These symptoms are indications of a healing process and should be welcomed!
COPPER ELIMINATIONS & INCREASED AWARENESS
Elimination of excess copper often is accompanied by an increase in awareness. Not only may a person become aware of physical aches and pains, but also emotional conflicts may come into consciousness.
These reactions occur because many copper-toxic individuals are living in a lowered state of awareness. An increase in awareness is a necessary part of the healing process. Although there may be some temporary anxiety or pain, usually one feels much better after the process has been completed.
Copper-toxic individuals frequently have an aversion to eating protein, particularly red meat. It is important for such individuals to eat some protein at least twice a day, even if the quantity is small, otherwise progress is delayed. Strict vegetarian diets are not advisable, but may be necessary for a period of time in severe cases.
Many copper-toxic individuals have an insatiable craving for sweets, fruit and fruit juices. Such items should be limited as much as possible for optimal results. In many cases, a high carbohydrate diet is necessary until adrenal activity is increased.
THE TIME FACTOR
Six months to several years may be required to correct a copper imbalance, depending on the severity of the copper toxicity problem.
COPPER REACTIONS (Copper Elimination)
During the correction of a copper imbalance, copper elimination frequently causes transient symptoms including headache, skin rash, free-floating anxiety, insomnia, fatigue and a flare-up of chronic conditions related to a copper imbalance.
These reactions generally last a day or two and then subside. The supplement program may be temporarily reduced if a symptom becomes particularly annoying. These symptoms are indications of a healing process and should be welcomed!
COPPER ELIMINATIONS & INCREASED AWARENESS
Elimination of excess copper often is accompanied by an increase in awareness. Not only may a person become aware of physical aches and pains, but also emotional conflicts may come into consciousness.
These reactions occur because many copper-toxic individuals are living in a lowered state of awareness. An increase in awareness is a necessary part of the healing process. Although there may be some temporary anxiety or pain, usually one feels much better after the process has been completed.
References:
- Davies, I.J.T., The Clinical Significance of the Essential Biological Metals, Charles C. Thomas, Great Britain, 1972.
- Hambridge, K.M & Nichols, B., Zinc and Copper in Clinical Medicine, Spectrum Publications, New York 1978.
- Kutsky, R., Handbook of Vitamins, Minerals and Hormones, Van Nostrand Reinhold Co., New York, 1981.
- Lontie, R., Copper Proteins and Copper Enzymes, CRC Press, Boca Raton, Fl., 1984.
- Lontie, R., Copper Proteins and Copper Enzymes, CRC Press, Boca Raton, Fl., 1984.
- Pfeiffer, C., Mental And Elemental Nutrients, Keats Publishing, New Canaan, Ct., 1975.
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