Thought I'd provide some info in connection with the copper theory. There are several supplements which can lower copper stores: L-methionine and cysteine bind with copper. Zinc and iron prevents copper uptake in colon. Large doses of vitamin C also lowers body content, as does molybdenum. Cysteine binds with zinc to, so these must be taken at seperate occations. Iron and vitamin C prevents zinc uptake and must also be taken at a different times. Phytic acid in grain products and lesser amount in vegetables, prevent zinc uptake. The most beneficial is to take zinc supplements with animal protein or if tolerated on an empty stomach. Zinc is supposedly most absorbed when taken in the evening.

Stay clear of copper food such as black tea, meat liver, nuts, legumes, bran, sea food, mushrooms, cocoa and beer. Eat plentiful of red and white meat with limited amount of grain products and sugar as these lower zinc uptake. Vegetables and fruit is ok (PS I think I read somewhere that cherries, radishes and advocado contains high copper). Be aware that old piping can contribute significantly to copper poisoning from water. For ladies, check all make-up products as bronzers and some brown lipsticks contain this metal. Also red-brown hair colouring contains copper......not so good to supply copper so close to the brain I would think <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" />. Estrogen is very closely connected to copper. High estrogen means high copper. If one suspects copper poisoning it is best to avoid the pill (PS Magnesium and zinc supposedly increase the body's progesterone so could be worth considering). Calcium prevents copper elimination so milk products are best avoided. Vitamin E and selenium also increase copper absorption and are best avoided.

When detoxing copper, symptoms can be aggravated especially the typical copper symptoms; mind-racing and anxiety/panick attacks. If this happens, it is best to lower supplements and focus on a zinc friendly diet before embarking on the supplement regime once again.

Here are a couple of good links: http://www.arltma.com/CuIntroDoc.htm
http://www.healingedge.net/store/page190.html

Ann <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />