COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 196
Conventional
Less than 0.3 ng/mL
Optimal / Functional
Less than 0.3 ng/mL
Cu:Zn Ratio
Copper and zinc work in opposition to each other4they compete
for absorption in the body. If the balance between them is off, it
can lead to health issues like hormone imbalances, poor insulin
function, weakened immunity, and signs of oxidative stress.
Taking too much zinc can lead to a copper deficiency, while low
zinc levels can also disrupt copper balance. Studies have shown
that children with autism often have a high copper-to-zinc ratio
and low ceruloplasmin (a protein that carries copper).
Copper imbalances have also been observed in people with
neurodegenerative conditions like ALS, Parkinson’s, Down
syndrome, and certain seizure disorders.
When to use this test:
● When symptoms like fatigue, poor wound healing, or
frequent infections persist.
● To assess systemic inflammation alongside markers like CRP or
ferritin.
Range
Units
Conventional
0.7-1.0 ratio
Optimal / Functional
0.7-1.0 ratio
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