Note: This article pairs well with ADHD in Children and Mineral Balancing

Adults are also impacted by hyperactivity, and certain key dietary habits are linked to this condition. Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis can be a valuable tool for identifying these patterns and providing guidance for corrective measures.

Calcium and Magnesium

Calcium and magnesium are known to have a soothing and calming effect on the central nervous system. In individuals with hyperactivity, their hair calcium and magnesium levels tend to fall outside the normal range.

Hyperactivity is typically associated with low levels of calcium and magnesium resulting from fast oxidation. However, the symptoms are now commonly seen in slow oxidizers with high levels of these minerals.

Elevated levels of calcium and magnesium may indicate biounavailability, where the minerals are not ionized in the blood but are instead deposited in the tissues like calcium deposits on faucets in hard water areas. Although the tissue levels may be high, the unavailability of these minerals can lead to symptoms similar to those seen in individuals with low levels of calcium and magnesium. In such cases, patients often benefit from supplementing their diet with calcium and magnesium.

Initially, Dr Eck did not believe that slow oxidizers would benefit from calcium and magnesium supplements, but he later found that providing bioavailable forms of these minerals was often necessary to alleviate hyperactivity symptoms in individuals with elevated levels of calcium and magnesium. I have also found this to be the case, although over time my research has shown that the type of calcium is important depending on the oxidation rate. For Slow oxidisers, calcium chelates that contain phosphorus such as hydroxyapatite are generally more effective than those that are bound to an amino acid such as glycine or malate.

The amount of supplemental calcium and magnesium required to address the symptoms of hyperactivity can vary depending on how far the levels deviate from normal. Adjusting the dosage from feedback is therefore essential in obtaining the best possible results.

Zinc And Copper

Another common cause of hyperactivity is an imbalance between zinc and copper levels in the body, where zinc is usually low, and/or copper is elevated. Fast oxidizers often exhibit low levels of both zinc and copper, while slow oxidizers frequently have elevated copper levels that may be hidden. Indicators for hidden copper toxicity include low sodium/potassium ratio, low potassium levels, elevated calcium levels, mercury elevations, or low copper levels.

Zinc has a calming effect and is even considered a calming neurotransmitter on its own. It stimulates the development of the new brain or cortex, which in turn modifies and reduces emotional responses.

Copper, on the other hand, stimulates the activity of the diencephalon or emotional brain, leading to exaggerated emotional responses. It stimulates the production of biogenic amines, which have a stimulating effect on the nervous system, and it also affects thyroid and adrenal activity.

Fast oxidizers with hyperactivity symptoms often benefit from supplemental zinc and copper. Zinc has a calming effect, while copper is needed to raise calcium levels. Without adequate copper, calcium is not retained in the tissues. Additionally, providing zinc without copper could further reduce copper levels since zinc is antagonistic to copper. Hence, both zinc and copper are often helpful for fast oxidizers with hyperactivity symptoms.

In contrast, slow oxidizers typically benefit from zinc and other nutrients that help lower excessive copper levels. However, on rare occasions, slow oxidizers may require copper supplements for a brief period when there is evidence of biounavailable copper.

Other Minerals

In addition to calcium, magnesium, zinc, and copper, other minerals may also play a role in hyperactivity symptoms. Chromium and manganese, for instance, can help reduce tendencies of low blood sugar, which can produce symptoms of hyperactivity. These minerals can help regulate glucose metabolism and improve insulin sensitivity, thereby reducing the likelihood of sudden blood sugar fluctuations that may trigger hyperactivity.

Moreover, toxic metals such as lead, cadmium, and mercury can have significant effects on the nervous system. They can act directly on various sites in the brain, causing damage or disrupting neural pathways. Alternatively, they can interfere with vital minerals' functions, which may also contribute to hyperactivity symptoms. For instance, lead interferes with calcium metabolism, while cadmium interferes with zinc metabolism. Mercury toxicity is closely related to copper toxicity, and both metals can have detrimental effects on the nervous system, leading to a wide range of symptoms, including hyperactivity. Toxic elements can also stimulate adrenal glandular activity and increase sodium, and perhaps even potassium levels which can increase the metabolic rate and therefore be a potential cause for hyperactivity. Therefore, it is essential to identify and address any potential mineral imbalances or toxic metal exposure that may contribute to hyperactivity symptoms to achieve optimal health and well-being

Diet And Hyperactivity

Dietary modifications have been found to be highly beneficial in reducing hyperactivity symptoms. It is important to avoid stimulants such as caffeine-containing beverages, chocolate, and high-sugar foods. Individuals with hypoglycemic tendencies may benefit from avoiding all simple carbohydrates, including fruit and fruit juice. Fluctuations in blood sugar levels due to diet can cause severe mood swings and anxiety in sensitive individuals.

Protein-rich foods tend to stimulate the activity of the thyroid and adrenal glands. This is particularly beneficial for slow oxidizers, where low glandular activity can cause anxiety symptoms. Foods containing L-tryptophan, such as milk products and turkey, have been found to be helpful for some individuals with hyperactivity symptoms. However, some people may be sensitive to dairy products and may experience adverse reactions to these foods. Slow oxidizers can benefit from having some protein with each meal, as it tends to enhance the oxidation rate and stabilize blood sugar levels.

While carbohydrate-rich foods may have a sedative effect, grains and other phytate-containing foods can bind essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and zinc, leading to deficiencies of these elements. Excessive carbohydrate intake and insufficient fat or protein intake can contribute to hypoglycemia and worsen hyperactivity symptoms, particularly in fast oxidizers. Excessive dietary sugar and carbohydrates in susceptible individuals can contribute to candida albicans overgrowth, which in turn can cause hyperactivity symptoms. Fats and oils in the diet tend to slow down metabolism and have a stabilizing effect on blood sugar levels.

Vitamins And Amino Acids

B-complex vitamins are essential for many bodily functions, including energy metabolism and the production of neurotransmitters. For slow oxidizers, who often have low glandular activity and decreased oxidation rates, B-complex vitamins can help enhance the oxidation rate and improve overall energy levels. However, in fast oxidizers, excessive B-complex vitamin intake can actually worsen hyperactivity symptoms.

Other vitamins, such as vitamins C and E, also play important roles in maintaining good health and can help support the nervous system. Adequate intake of these vitamins can contribute to overall well-being and may help alleviate hyperactivity symptoms.

Amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, are also important for maintaining good health. Glutamine, in particular, can help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent fluctuations that can contribute to hyperactivity symptoms. Additionally, other amino acids such as tryptophan and tyrosine can play a role in the production of neurotransmitters that affect mood and behaviour.

Conclusion

Various minerals may be involved in hyperactivity symptoms, such as zinc, copper, chromium, and manganese. Toxic metals like lead, cadmium, and mercury can also affect the nervous system and interfere with vital minerals. Modifying the diet by avoiding stimulants like caffeine and high-sugar foods and incorporating protein and complex carbohydrates can have beneficial effects on hyperactivity symptoms. B-complex vitamins enhance the oxidation rate, which is beneficial for slow oxidizers but excessive amounts can cause hyperactivity symptoms in fast oxidizers.