(NaturalNews) Migraines, depression, fatigue and insomnia - these are
just a few of the disorders that may be caused by a remarkably common
nutritional imbalance of copper. When proper levels of this mineral are
not maintained, illness and disease can develop. Since copper deficiency
and toxicity have far reaching health consequences, it is vital to
recognize the signs of imbalance.
Copper is an essential mineral
necessary for many functions of the body. Along with iron, copper
assists with red blood cell formation. It is also required for healthy
connective tissue, bones and the nervous and immune systems. Copper is
helpful in treating a wide range of illness from anemia to heart
disease, leukemia to HIV/AIDS. In addition, hypothyroidism, rheumatoid
arthritis and certain types of mental illness all respond well to
balanced copper levels. Excellent sources include avocado, sesame,
asparagus, crimini mushrooms and molasses along with most organic grains
and nuts.
Signs of deficiency
Since copper is important
for many bodily processes, deficiency manifests in a variety of ways.
Symptoms include weakness, fatigue, hair loss, low immunity, thyroid
problems and irregular heart beat. Copper deficiency is rare although
those suffering from chronic diarrhea, Crohn's or celiac disease can
develop malabsorption issues. Regular use of antacids can also hinder
assimilation.
Identifying the dangers of toxicity
An excess of copper in the system can seriously damage physical and mental
well-being. Many of the symptoms of toxicity are perplexingly similar
to those of deficiency. Some individuals have substantial levels of
biounavailable copper,
thereby creating a situation of both toxicity and deficiency. Health
issues that indicate possible toxicity include cancer, liver damage and
abdominal pain. When copper is elevated and paired with low levels of
zinc, dysfunction such as autism, hyperactivity in children,
schizophrenia and premenstrual syndrome can arise. Copper has been
linked with postpartum depression due to high levels of the mineral
retained throughout pregnancy. Oftentimes there is a connection between a
compromised liver and this form of depression since bile is a key
element in excreting copper.
Treatment for copper imbalance
With simple lifestyle modifications, copper levels can be brought into harmony. Both deficiency
and toxicity respond well to a diet of: 70 to 80 percent cooked
vegetables, small portions of high-quality, organic and pasture raised
animal protein, healthy fats such as extra virgin olive and coconut
oils, and small amounts of corn and brown rice. Limit sugar, fruit and
sweets since these stress the adrenals and aggravate copper imbalance.
For toxicity
symptoms, avoid copper cooking utensils, pools and hot tubs along with
high copper foods. Drinking plenty of purified water throughout the day
is essential to flush out excess amounts of the mineral. Reducing fear
and stress is also helpful for maintaining copper equilibrium within the
body.
Sources for this article include:
"Copper Toxicity Syndrome" Lawrence Wilson, MD, The Center For Development. Retrieved on July 30, 2012 from: http://drlwilson.com/articles/copper_toxicity_syndrome.htm
"Dietary Copper May Ease An Ailing Heart" ScienceDaily, March 5, 2007. Retrieved on July 30, 2012 from: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/03/070305092013.htm
"Copper" George Mateljan Foundation. Retrieved on July 30, 2012 from: http://whfoods.org/genpage.php?tname=nutrient&dbid=53
"Copper in diet" MedlinePlus. Retrieved on July 30, 2012 from: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002419.htm
About the author:
Carolanne
enthusiastically believes if we want to see change in the world, we
need to be the change. As a nutritionist, natural foods chef, and
wellness coach, Carolanne has encouraged others to embrace a healthy
lifestyle of organic living, gratefulness, and joyful orientation for
over 13 years. Through her website www.Thrive-Living.net she looks forward to connecting with other like-minded people from around the world who share a similar vision.
