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Minerals are chemical molecules that cannot be reduced to
simpler substances - the 103 currently known elements of the
chemistry periodic table. Minerals are what remains as ash when
plant or animal tissues burn or decay. In most cases, optimal
levels of Minerals exist and the essential Minerals must be
present in the body in their correct balance. It becomes
increasingly evident when studying the relationship of minerals
to human health that keeping the level of minerals in balance in
every tissue, cell and organ, in the human body may be the key
to maintaining human health.
Balanced intake of minerals are the key, it is the equilibria,
and not the individual elements that govern the phenomena of
life. ConcenTrace® Ionic Mineral Drops are nature’s most
perfectly balanced mineral formulation. having sufficient
minerals in your body is to have a superior immune system.
Many manufacturers of supplements ignore the cardinal rule of
nutrition: no nutrient ever works by itself. - it must be
combined with others to be effective. This applies to all
vitamins and minerals. Calcium is a good example. If calcium is
not combined with magnesium, manganese, iron, phosphorus and
silica, it cannot be absorbed. What is worse, it may be
deposited in the soft tissues, causing calcification that leads
to arteriosclerosis, osteoporosis, arthritis and kidney stones.
Not only does calcium have to be combined with magnesium, the
ratio of these two minerals are absolutely critical. Whilst most
supplements contain twice as much calcium as they do magnesium,
recent research shows us that his balance should actually be
reversed. Why? When there is a overabundance of calcium compared
to magnesium, the body secretes too little calcitonin, the
substance which enables the body to deposit calcium into the
bones, and too much PTH, which causes the calcium to leach out
of the skeleton.
In almost every chemistry textbook one can find a copy of the
"Periodic Table of the Elements." This table shows each known
element's particular physical characteristics. Scientific study
of these elements has discovered that many of them are
absolutely essential to life on this planet.
A number of factors have been associated with the occurrence of
a deficiency of a mineral in humans: deficiency in the soil;
water and plants; mineral imbalances; processing of water or
soil; and, inadequate dietary intake.
There is a significant body of evidence that minerals by
themselves and in proper balance to one another have important
biochemical and nutritional functions.
To understand the concept of "biochemical individuality" we have
to get away from the mistaken assumption that every person
utilizes and absorbs minerals the same way. The absorption of
minerals is dependent on so many different factors, not the
least of which is age, adequacy of stomach acid output, balanced
bowel flora, lack of intestinal illnesses and parasites, and
dietary fiber intake.
"Whatever the nutritional potential of a food, its
contribution is nonexistent if it does not pass the test of
absorption. Those nutrients that have not been transferred
through the intestinal mucosal cell to enter the circulation
have, for all nutritional intent and purpose, have never been
eaten. The variety of nutrients from the organism's environment
that have been made available by absorption must be transported
through the circulatory system to the aqueous microenvironment
of the cells. There, they serve their ultimate purpose:
participation in the metabolic activities in the cells on which
the life of the total organism depends."
[Ruth L. Pike and Myrtle L. Brown: Nutrition: An Integrated
Approach, John Wiley & Sons, 1984 l, p. 283]
Listed below are eight minerals that should be ionic in order to
be readily absorbed into the body through transfer in the small
intestine (intraluminal absorption). These minerals become ionic
after their food-bound forms, whether organically or
inorganically bound, have been exposed to hydrochloric acid in
the stomach. Hydrochloric acid helps liberate these minerals
into ionic (charged) minerals.
Ageing increases the risk of gastric atrophy, a condition that
commonly is associated with a decreased secretion of
hydrochloric acid in the stomach. As the level of hydrochloric
acid output decreases, the body's ability to absorb these
minerals from their food-bound form diminishes. This inability
to adequately absorb these minerals may be one of the causes of
age associated degeneration. It is for this reason that careful
attention must be given to the form a mineral takes, since the
less dependent it is on hydrochloric acid to be absorbed.
As will be discussed later, three of the minerals listed in the
table can be intraluminally absorbed in some complex forms
without first becoming charged ions. However, all eight of these
minerals are best absorbed when they are in their ionic form.
The important point is that gastric atrophy or conditions such
as achlorhydria (lack of stomach acid) or hypochlorhydria
(inadequate stomach acid) can impair the body's absorption of
important minerals. Achlorhydria has been found in children as
young as five or six years of age. Hypochlorhydria, however, is
more commonly seen after age 35. It is estimated that between 15
and 35 percent of adults age 60 have some degree of gastric
atrophy, including hypochlorhydria. Finding a source of minerals
in ionic form would clearly be of benefit to such individuals.
[AG Schauss. Minerals and Trace Elements and Human Health]
Acid-Dependent
Minerals That Require Adequate Stomach
Acid to Enhance Intraluminal Absorption in the Small
Intestine |
Chromium (Cr)
Copper (Cu)
Iron (Fe)
Magnesium (Mg) |
Manganese (Mn)
Molybdenum (Mo)
Selenium (Se)
Zinc (Zn) |
pH balance — There are complex biochemical processes that
constantly take place in the body to keep the pH as near perfect
as possible. These buffering systems need a good balance of
minerals & trace minerals to work effectively. Body mineral
content and balances control the quantity of electrolytes in the
body. The speed at which the electricity flows is controlled by
the pH balance. The ideal pH range for saliva test is 6.0 to
6.8; values below this value means the body is acid and above
this value the body is alkaline.
The symptoms of acidosis (when the body is too acid) are
insomnia, water retention, rheumatoid arthritis, migraine
headaches, abnormally low blood pressure, alternating
constipation and diarrhea, and sensitivity of teeth to vinegar.
“Acidosis results from eating excess animal protein, excess junk
foods, cooked and fried foods. When ingested, cooked and
processed foods become acids in the body. Raw fruits, as well as
all foods, become acid when sugar is added. Source: Prescription
for Nutritional Healing by James Balch and Phyllis Balch”. Dr.
Michael Worlilschek in Explorer magazine: “The metabolic
processes in the body depend on a balanced pH within the cells.
If it goes too high or low, certain enzymatic reactions fail to
occur. If they deviate too far on the acidic side, the
metabolism stops (which mean poisoning of the cell) and the cell
die. Therefore, acid represents cell poisoning in general”.
Researcher S. Wang (Miami: Fl. By Sang Wang, 1990) in “Reversed
Aging” states: “As long as there are sufficient amounts of
alkaline minerals in the body, poisonous acids are neutralized.
When there is not an adequate supply of calcium, or other
alkaline minerals in the body, the body borrows calcium from the
bones to survive. Alkaline minerals include sodium, potassium,
calcium, magnesium, and others”. Minerals neutralize acid wastes
into harmless salts, which are then eliminated through the
circulatory system and kidneys. The symptoms of alkalosis (when
the body is too alkaline) are bone spurs, drowsiness, sore
muscles, hypertension, allergies, seizures, asthma, night
coughs, prostatitis, hypothermia, night cramps, etc.
Water is the most important nutrient for the body. On average,
the human body is 60% water by mass, depending on certain
factors such as age, gender and body mass. The average 70 kg man
is made up of 42 litres of water whilst the average 55 kg adult
female is made up of 27.5 litres of water. 1
Even mild water losses can significantly impede performance. For
every 1% of body mass lost, blood volume decreases by 2.5%,
muscle water decreases by 1%, and the body’s core temperature
can increase 0.4 to 0.5 oC. 7 Changes in blood volume
during prolonged exercise impair the body’s ability to deliver
oxygen and key nutrients to active muscles, organs, glands and
negatively affect thermo-regulation (the body’s ability to
regulate core body temperature) by diminishing the body’s
ability to expel heat. Losses of 3% are associated with
physiological changes, such as decreased blood volume, urine
output, diminished performance and decreased endurance, whilst
losses of nine to twelve percent are fatal. ref.1,7
1. Taylor PN, Wolinsky I, Klimis DJ, (1999) Water in
Exercise and Sport in Microelements, Water, and
Electrolytes, JA Driskell and
Wolinsky I, Eds., CRC Press Boca Rouge, FL: chap.5
7. Wilmore JH and Costill D, (1944) In Physiology of Sport
and Exercise, Human Kinetics, Champaign, IL: chap 15.
Above are results of a comparative analysis of 26 other
products, showing ConcenTrace® (sample 27) well pH-balanced.
Mineral Magnesium (Mg) - This mineral is involved in over
300 enzyme functions; it also regulates the absorption of
calcium and adds to integrity of bones and teeth. Deficiencies
can lead to brittle bones and osteoporosis. It regulates the
heartbeat and is vital to energy production and nerve
transmissions. Especially benefits: athletes’ performance,
mascular contraction, neuromuscular transmission, protein and
nucleic acid synthesis, membrane transport and electrolytic
balance.
Deficiency is associated with loss of appetite, muscle weakness,
nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, fatigue and irritability.
Furthermore, deficiency can cause hypertension and is common in
patients with diabetes, lung infection, asthma, tremors, muscle
cramps, heart disease, convulsions and chronic obstructive
airways diseases. More serious, deficiency can lead to muscle
spasms and seizures. When Mg is low, the blood becomes saturated
with calcium, which often deposits in the muscles or kidneys –
which can lead to kidney stones. 2
Calcium (Ca) - Numerous studies show no relationship
between level of dietary Ca intake and the incidence of
Osteoporosis. In the largest prospective scientific study of
bone in premenopausal women (ages 20-40 years), conducted by the
University of Wisconsin, no relationship could be found between
Ca intake and bone mineral density. It is advisable that Ca
supplements not be taken with meals. Calcium cannot form bones
without magnesium. When Ca is formed inside the marrow of bones,
these osteoplasts must have Magnesium to mature.
Eleven minerals & trace minerals are required to make bone
matrix and strong bones. Low calcium intake or too much
phosphates from soft drinks and processed foods may cause the
body to leach Ca from the bones to maintain blood-serum levels
and/or maintain phosphorus-calcium levels. When the bones are
constantly robbed of Ca, they become weak and porous,
contributing to osteoporosis. 2
Potassium, Sodium & Chloride (Electrolytes) - They have a
electrical charge, either positive or negative, making them
capable of conducting electricity. Electrolytes control the
movement of fluids through cell membranes. They maintain
acid-base pH balance so that cells can function normally. They
carry electrical currents that travel down nerves – allowing
muscles to contract – and release hormones and neurotransmitters
on the way. They allow the electrical activity of the body to
occur, such as heartbeat, nerve impulses and muscle
contractions. These minerals set up electrical potential, much
like a battery, that allows electrical energy to occur. The
electrolytes help the body to adapt to stress but chronic stress
depletes the body of numerous precious nutrients – potassium is
particularly at risk.
Chloride is used for forming hydrochloric acid which is crucial
to the digestion of nutrients, including calcium, iron and
vitamin B.12 A deficiency can interfere with normal heart rhythm
and trigger heart attacks, cramping, shallow breathing, fatigue,
and nausea. High blood pressure and cancer can sometimes be
treated with increased potassium intake. 3
Sulphur (S) - It is an important component of many
enzymes, hormones and antibodies, and is reputed to give hair
its lustre and complexion its glow. It is vital to enzyme
production, it promotes enzymatic reactions and aids blood
clotting. It produces energy and combines with certain toxic
materials to allow them to pass safely out of the body with
urine. It is essential in the manufacture of protein and aids in
bile discretion from the liver. Deficiency may lead to
degenerative forms of arthritis. 4
Lithium (Li) - It plays a role in slow respiration of
nuclear membranes at the intracellular level; the uptake of
glucose in the cells; improved fertility, etc. Li is
incorporated into bone at a rate directly proportional to the
rate of bone growth. Various studies that lasted over 10 years
found that the incidence of suicide, rape, homicide, were
significantly higher in areas where drinking water supplies
contained little or no lithium than in areas where drinking
water contains Li levels from 70 to 170 micrograms/litre. This
also corresponds with the incidence rates of robbery, burglary,
theft and arrest for possession of heroin, cocaine and their
derivatives. These results suggest that Li has moderating
effects on suicidal and violent criminal behaviour. The
researchers suggested that a daily Li intake of 2mg be effective
to lower the incidence of aggressive and/or self destructive
behaviour. 2
Deficiency causes decreased growth rate, less overall fertility
and manic depression.
Selenium (Se) - The benefits of selenium can be summed up
in one word: protection. It acts against cadmium and mercury and
detoxifies environmental pollutants. Its most important
biological function is as an antioxidant. There is growing
evidence that Se may be protective against certain cancers
(breast, lung and colon) and numerous tumours. Studies to date
have given considerable evidence to the theory that decreased Se
is associated with an increased risk of cancer. Selenium intake
with chromium, copper, potassium, magnesium and calcium, have
found to be beneficial in reducing the risk of cardiovascular
disease. Ingesting more than 750-1000 mcg of Se may be harmful.
2
Deficiency may be partly caused by the leeching of soil by
modern farming methods. Environmental pollution may also play a
role in Se depletion. There is also a possibility that sulphur
dioxide fallout and acid rain may compete with Se uptake into
plants, thereby decreasing the Se content of fruit, vegetables
and grains.
Boron (B) - It is important for optimum calcium
absorption and utilisation, which means: bone metabolism. A
Supplement of 3 mg a day for postmenopausal women resulted in
improvements in both calcium and magnesium retention, and
elevations in circulating serum concentrations of testosterone
and oestrogen. It is particularly helpful to postmenopausal
woman, who are at risk of bone loss and consequently,
osteoporosis. Deficiency results in growth impairment and
osteoporosis.
Athletes: Copper & Zinc - In proper balance, these minerals are
essential to physical performance. Enhanced physical capacity in
athletes have been reported as a consequence of oral magnesium
supplementation, usually in the range of 500 mg daily. This
level does not cause difficulties for the kidneys in maintaining
the magnesium balance. 1
pH balance - There are complex biochemical processes that
constantly take place in the body to keep the pH as near perfect
as possible. These buffering systems needs a good balance of
minerals & trace minerals to work effectively. Body mineral
content and balances control the quantity of electrolytes in the
body. The speed at which the electricity flows is controlled by
the pH balance. The ideal pH range for saliva test is 6.0 to
6.8; values below this value means the body is acid and above
this value the body is alkaline.
The symptoms of acidosis (when the body is too acid) are
insomnia, water retention, rheumatoid arthritis, migraine
headaches, abnormally low blood pressure, alternating
constipation and diarrhoea, and sensitivity of teeth to vinegar.
The symptoms of alkalosis (when the body is too alkaline) are
bone spurs, drowsiness, sore muscles, hypertension, allergies,
seizures, asthma, night coughs, prostatitis, hypothermia, night
cramps, etc.
Mineral balance - Mineral intake must be balanced for
optimal absorption into the body. An excess or deficiency of
some minerals can inhibit the absorption or metabolism of
others. The inter-reaction of minerals & trace minerals is
complex. For example, phosphorus interacts with Zinc, Magnesium,
Iron, Molybdenum, Manganese, Copper, Aluminium, Beryllium,
Sodium and Iron. Sulphur with Molybdenum, Copper, Calcium and
Selenium, and others. 2
Minerals and trace elements do not exist by themselves but in
relationship to one another and are most beneficial if they are
in balance with other minerals they interact with. I strongly
discourage selfmedication with single minerals. 2
- American Medical Association’s Encyclopedia of Medicine
- The Healing Power of Minerals, Special Nutrients and
Trace Elements by Paul Bergner.
- Source Esminger et al
- Dr. Dharma Sigh Khalsa, President and Medical Director
of the Alzheimer’s Prevention Foundation, USA.
- Hendler 1990.
Herbal traditions throughout the world have used
infusions and decoctions of herbs since the dawn of
recorded medical history. In North America, at least
since time of the Eclectics, paralleling the scientific
interest in pharmaceutical constituents, we’ve seen
increasing emphasis on tinctures and concentrated
extracts, and a downplaying of beverage forms of herbs
in clinical practice. This shift from decoctions and
infusions to more or less sophisticated solvent extracts
may suit those practitioners who emphasize the drug-like
qualities of herbs but may omit some of the most
important health building constituents minerals.
Mineral deficiencies are epidemic now in the developed
countries, due to food processing and gradual
demineralisation of the soil from modern agricultural
practices. In the US, the average woman does not consume
the recommended dietary allowance of calcium, magnesium,
iron, or zinc, and the diet of the average male is
deficient of magnesium and zinc (U.S.D.A. 1997) Dietary
analysis is not performed for the most of the
twenty-or-so essential trace elements. Because the
minerals occur as a group in foods, rather than singly,
we can assume widespread deficiencies of these occur as
well. The pathology of the Western diseases – those
which are command in developed countries, but only begin
to appear in traditional societies when a Western diet
is adopted – is strongly linked to mineral deficiencies.
Table 1 shows the multiple mineral deficiencies
associated with common early-stage mineral deficiency
diseases. Notice in the table that each of the
conditions is associated with magnesium deficiency, and
each has at least one other of the commonly deficient
minerals associated as well. If our medicine is to
address the cause of these conditions, it must address
these deficiencies as well. Stimulating or sedating the
patient, with pharmaceutical drugs or herbal substitutes
such as Echinacea, St. Johnswort, kava, or other herbs,
will never cure these conditions. Some of our most
common beverage teas, however, prepared as strong
decoctions or infusions, provide significant mineral
nutrition, and, in fact, address the cause.
Sources: Medical Herbalism, Summer 1997, Volume 9 no. 2,
page 6. |
| Diseases |
Minerals |
Others |
|
| |
|
|
|
| Allergies |
Calcium |
Essential Fatty Acids |
|
| |
Magnesium |
|
|
|
Zinc |
|
|
|
Calcium |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Anxiety |
Calcium |
Excess Calcium |
|
|
Magnesium |
Excess Sugar |
|
| |
|
Excess Caffeine |
|
| |
|
Excess Alcohol |
|
| |
|
Deficient Essential Fatty Acids |
|
| |
|
|
|
| Depression |
Calcium |
Excess Caffeine |
|
| |
Iron |
Excess Sugar |
|
| |
Lithium |
|
|
| |
Magnesium |
|
|
| |
Potassium |
|
|
| |
Rubidium |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Fatigue |
Iron |
Excess Sugar |
|
| |
Magnesium |
Excess Caffeine |
|
| |
Potassium |
|
|
| |
Zinc |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Hyperactivity |
Calcium |
|
|
| |
Copper |
|
|
| |
Iron
Magnesium
Zinc
High Aluminium
High Lead |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Immunodepression |
Copper |
High Sugar |
|
| |
Germanium |
|
|
| |
Iodine |
|
|
| |
Iron |
|
|
| |
Magnesium |
|
|
| |
Selenium |
|
|
| |
Zinc |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Insomnia |
Copper |
High Caffeine |
|
| |
Iron |
High Alcohol |
|
| |
Magnesium |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
Sources: Werbach, M. Nutritional Influences on Mental
Illnesses, Third Line, 1993: Nutritional Influences on Illness,
Third Line, 1993) |
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