Wilson's Disease
by Dr. Sandra Cabot
 What
is Wilson's Disease?
This is a very rare inherited disorder causing an inability of the body
to metabolize the mineral copper. It results is very high and toxic levels
of copper building up in the liver and parts of the brain, leading to
liver scarring (cirrhosis) and neurological disease. Children affected
with Wilson's disease develop liver problems, whereas young adults have
more neurological problems, such as movement and speech disorders and
eventually dementia.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis and treatment of this severe disease is performed by a specialist
and involves the use of drugs such as Dpenicillamine, triethylene tetramine
and/or zinc supplements.
Effective treatment depends upon early diagnosis before permanent damage
has set in. Wilson's disease is one of the few inherited metabolic
disorders for which there is effective treatment.
Treatment
Diet
Nutritional medicine can help patients with Wilson's disease.
Follow the general principles of eating outlined on p20-27 of
"The Healthy Liver and Bowel Book" by Dr Cabot. Make these
principles a way of life.
In addition the following recommendations also apply:
Avoidance of foods high in copper e.g.. organ meats, liver, shellfish,
nuts, legumes, whole grains and their cereals and chocolates.
Eat plenty of cruciferous vegetables, garlic, onions and ginger.
Eat small regular meals.
Ensure a high fluid intake of 2 liters daily to reduce kidney stones.
Dr Cabot's Recommended supplement program for Wilson's Disease:
Livatone Plus Capsules.
Dose: 2 capsules twice a day before meals
Selenium Complete Tablets
Dose: 1 tablet morning and night
Natural Vitamin E
Dose: 1000iu daily Vitamin E and Selenium will reduce free radical damage
caused by the excessive copper
Vitamin B 6 and multi-mineral tablets (without copper)
must be taken to reduce the side effects of D-penicillamine. The multi-mineral
tablet should contain the mineral molybdenum (30 mcg to 5mg daily may
be required)
Zinc chelate
600 mg per day increases the excretion of copper.
Antioxidants
such as vitamin C 2000 to 3000 mg daily
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