Zinc and Copper Ratio

 

 

What is the Zinc and Copper Ratio?

Zinc and copper are minerals that play an important role in nervous system health. They must be balanced with each other to maintain proper functioning.

 

 

Effects on Autism

A high zinc/copper ratio is essential to support cell health. Children with autism have been shown to have low zinc levels and high copper levels. This creates a low zinc/copper ratio, which increases inflammation. A proper balance supports brain development, leading to reduced brain dysfunction. A balanced zinc/copper ratio is preventative against inflammation, which children with autism have higher levels of.

 

 

Effects on Heavy Metal Toxicity

As stated above, children with autism often have high copper levels. High levels of copper without enough zinc to balance it out lead to copper toxicity. Heavy metal toxicity impacts cell function and increases inflammation. In addition to copper, low levels of zinc increased the risk of toxicity of other heavy metals like lead. Zinc supplementation has been shown to restore the zinc/copper balance by lowering copper levels. This leads to increased cognitive-motor performance and improved cell health.

 

 

 

Foods High in Zinc (Highest on Top):

1.     Oysters

2.     Beef

3.     Blue Crab

4.     Fortified breakfast cereals

5.     Oats

6.     Pumpkin seeds

7.     Pork

8.     Turkey breast

9.     Cheddar cheese

10.   Shrimp