Information and facts on Wilson's Disease

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Wilson's disease is a rare inherited disorder that affects approximately 1 in 30,000 persons worldwide. In persons with Wilson's disease, the body is unable to metabolize the trace element copper as it should, with the result that excess copper accumulates in the brain, kidneys, liver, and the corneas of the eyes. This causes organ damage and other complications, including neurological problems and psychotic behavior. Untreated, Wilson's disease leads to brain damage, cirrhosis of the liver, hepatitis, and, ultimately, death. Fortunately, early detection and treatment of the disease can minimize the symptoms and complications and possibly even prevent them altogether.

Symptoms of Wilson's disease may include bloody vomit; difficulty speaking, swallowing, and/or walking; drooling; an enlarged spleen; jaundice; loss of appetite; loss of coordination; progressive fatigue and / or weakness; progressive intellectual impairment; psychological deterioration manifested as personality changes and/or bizarre behavior; rigidity, spasms, or tremors of the muscles; swelling and/or fluid accumulation in the abdomen; and unexplained weight loss.

Sometimes the first sign is the development of a pigmented ring, known as a Kayser-Fleischer ring, at  the outer margin of the cornea, which may be detected during a routine eye examination. In the advanced  stages of the disease, symptoms due to chronic active hepatitis or cirrhosis may appear, menstrual cycles may cease, and an individual may experience chest pains, heart palpitations, lightheadedness, pallor, and shortness of breath as a result of exertion.

Although persons with Wilson's disease are born with the disorder, symptoms are rarely seen before the age of six and most often do not appear until adolescence or even later. However, to prevent  complications, treatment is required whether symptoms have appeared or not. Diagnosis is usually based on a study of individual and family medical history plus blood tests to determine levels of ceruloplasm (a copper-carrying protein in the blood) and to check for anemia, plus a urine test to reveal elevated levels of copper in the urine. A liver biopsy to evaluate the amount of copper in liver tissue may be done to confirm the diagnosis.

 

Nutrient / Supplement Importance
( 1 - 10 )
Helpful notes
Magnesium 8 low intake of magnesium has been linked to the disease and many related problems. A good source of magnesium is a quality multi-vitamin mineral supplement, especially one with calcium and zinc.
Calcium 7 this mineral works with magnesium to prevent muscle spasms
Omega fatty acids 9 important for brain function, healthy nerve function, reducing blood pressure, increasing blood circulation, and to prevent heart and cardiovascular disease. Omega fatty acids are found in fish oil, flax seed, and borage seed.
vitamin C 10 vitamin C aids people with wilson's disease by improving adrenal function.
Multi-vitamin and Mineral supplement 10 vitamin B complex, zinc, vitamin C, vitamin E all serve to help with wilson's disease and reduce its effects. This type of supplement provides nutrients daily that are required for general good health and well being.
vitamin B complex 8 they offer protection for the liver and are needed for proper brain function. This family of vitamins aids with stress, depression, and  overall nervous system health.
vitamin E 8 provides healing and helps to prevent cell damage
Zinc 8 decreases copper levels and strengthens the body's immune system

 

Other Changes To Make

  • drink 6-8 glasses of steam distilled or filtered water a day

  • eat 50% raw fruits and vegetables (organic is best)

  • nuts, seeds, and whole grains are good

  • juice is good (make your own with a juice machine)

  • do not worry as much about calories as eating the right foods

  • carrot and celery sticks are good to use as a snack

  • a colon cleansing can be very helpful - (do several times each year)

  • do not drink coffee, alcohol, soda pop, other junk food drinks

  • do not eat processed foods white sugar, white flour, etc...

  • use stress relief like going for walks in the park (or the 10/90 rule - see Stress)

  • brown rice is good to eat

  • avoid red meat and animal fats

  • reduce dairy products cheese, milk, and others

  • fast a few days a month

  • get at least 8 hours of sleep 

  • exercise light to moderate amounts

  • avoid artificial sweeteners like Aspartame and NutraSweet

  • do not smoke and avoid second hand smoke

  • do not skip meals - just eat better and not as much at each meal

  • do not chew gum - it can cause you to feel hungry

  • do not watch too much TV try reading a book or something else

 

All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, or to administer to any physical ailments.
In all matters related to your health please contact a qualified, licensed Medical Consultant or Doctor.
Symmetry herbal and nutritional products for Women, Children, and Men includes vitamins, herb supplements, skin care, weight loss, water filters, sport's nutrition, and health maintenance. Giving you and your family an alternative natural way for prevention and healing treatment of disease - also to aid in well being of mind, body, and spirit.

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........Symmetry herbal and nutritional products for Women, Children, and Men includes vitamins, herb supplements, skin care, weight loss, water filters, sport's nutrition, and health maintenance. Giving you and your family an alternative natural way for prevention and healing treatment of disease - also to aid in well being of mind, body, and spirit.