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 metabolise 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 eg. 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 litres daily to reduce kidney stones.

Dr Cabot's Recommended supplement program for Wilsons 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.

• Anti-oxidants
such as vitamin C 2000 to 3000 mg daily