Nutritional deficiencies of key minerals and/or accumulations of toxic heavy metals have been cited as important contributing factors that can adversely impact the health of patients with MS. Several controlled studies show that MS patients consistently exhibit low levels of zinc.1-3 Zinc plays an extremely important role in immune function, inhibiting certain potentially damaging immune reactions of T lymphocytes, the inflammatory triggers implicated in the autoimmune degeneration seen in MS. Zinc also serves as an important antioxidant, with an ability to safeguard various cell membranes including myelin.4

Copper levels are also commonly altered in MS.2,5 The body needs optimal amounts of copper for sustaining proper energy production, for healthy bones and skin, and most importantly (in MS), for ensuring the integrity of the myelin sheaths that protect the nerves.6 Balance is the key, however. Overly high levels may increase symptoms of fatigue, depression, and muscle and joint pain. Since copper and zinc compete for absorption in the body, the main concern is in establishing a healthy ratio of these elements in MS patients.

In hospitalized patients with severe MS, there is an increased need for nutriture with zinc and iron. In fact, deficiencies of the elements are associated with the presence of pressure sores in these MS patients.7 One study, however, found increased iron deposits in the brain in MS, and proposed that "iron could promote oxidative damage in these disease states."8

Research over the years has also established a link between heavy metal exposure and symptoms of multiple sclerosis. One Russian investigator has tied the regional distribution of multiple sclerosis to the presence of certain microelements in the soil, such as cobalt, boron, and manganese.9 Experimental research has shown that lead, one of the most pervasive toxins in the environment, can promote the synthesis of autoantibodies against myelin basic protein.10 Another possible toxic connection involves mercury--and specifically amalgam dental fillings. MS patients with amalgam fillings were found to have over 30% more exacerbations of their condition than other MS patients, and hair analysis revealed levels of hair mercury that were significantly higher than those of controls.11

The Elemental Analysis provides a thorough analysis of toxic and nutrient element status in the body, using hair, urine, or blood samples. Each specimen type offers a unique window on how elemental imbalances may be impacting MS and other chronic health conditions.

Related Information: Multiple Sclerosis and Oxidative Stress

References
1 Wong EK, Ewomoto H, Turner RB, Leopold IH. A hypothesis: multiple sclerosis a systemic disease [French]. J Fr Ophtalmol 1983;6(3):243-249.
2 Palm R, Hallmans G. Zinc and copper in multiple sclerosis. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 1982;45(8):691-698.
3 Ebadi M, Iversen PL, Hao R, Cerutis DR, Rojas P, Happe HK, Murrin LC, Pfeiffer RF. Expression and regulation of brain metallothionein. Neurochem Int 1995;27(1):1-22.
4 Shankar AH, Prasad AS. Zinc and immune function: the biological basis of altererd resistance to infection. Am Soc Clin Nutr 1998;68(suppl):447S-63S.
5 Smith DK, Feldman EB, Feldman DS. Trace element status in multiple sclerosis. Am J Clin Nutr 1989;50(1):136-140.
6 Haas EM. Staying Healthy with Nutrition. Berkeley (CA): Celestial Arts, 1992;190-194.
7 Williams CM, Lines CM, McKay EC. Iron and zinc status in multiple sclerosis patients with pressure sores. Eur J Clin Nutr 1988;42(4):321-328.
8 LeVine SM. Iron deposits in multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's disease brains. Brain Res 1997;760(1-2):298-303.
9 Zapakniuk BV. The incidence of multiple sclerosis and the content of cobalt, boron, zinc, manganese, and molybdenum in the arable soild of different climatic zones of the Ukraine [Russian]. Lik Sprava 1992;1:11-113.
10 Waterman SJ, el-Fawal HA, Snyder CA. Lead alters the immunogenicity of two neural proteins: a potential mechanism for the progression of lead-induced neurotoxicity. Environ Health Perspect 1994;102(12):1052-1056.
11 Siblerud RL, Kienholz E. Evidence that mercury from silver dental fillings may be an etiological factor in multiple sclerosis. Sci Total Environ 1994;142(3):191-205.

Call to set up a nutritional consultation so that tests can be performed and a comprehensive strategy of lifestyle, dietary modification and nutrient supplementation can be implemented to aid you in reversing this disorder.

For an appointment, contact our office at: 800-956-7083 and visit our web site www.completehealthinstitute.com go to lab tests and click on appropriate test for information.

Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L Ac. has had a clinical practice for over 20 years. Her programs work because she is so thorough in testing and providing a nutritional approach. Remember that the body can heal itself if given the proper nutrients.

The information herein is not intended as diagnosis, treatment or a cure. Should you have a medical condition please seek the advice of your medical doctor.