By Michael Biamonte, C.C.N.

There is a great likelihood that 30-40% of the vitamin supplements being taken by any health enthusiast are doing no good or causing harm. Before we explore this further, a basic understanding of the body is needed. The research by Trace Elements, Inc.’s Dr. David Watts, PhD, has determined that everyone can be classified as either a Slow or Fast Oxidizer. “Oxidizer” in this case refers to the speed in which an individual burns up food and produces heat and energy. A “Fast” or “Slow” tends to have their central nervous system running in high or low “gear.” This leads to certain organ and glandular functions being higher or lower in each of these types, not to the degree that your family doctor may notice, but to the degree that changes in nutritional requirements will take place. Since all vitamins, minerals and foods can be classified as being stimulating (sympathetic nervous system enhancing) or sedative (parasympathetic enhancing), strange reactions or worsening of present symptoms can occur from taking nutrients that are contrary to your individual biochemistry. The fast oxidizer is sometimes described as “hyper,” and tends toward the following symptoms: warm hands and feet, perspires easily, hypertension, dental problems, weight gain from the waist up with a thin appearance from the wait down. This type of person should avoid certain nutrients. Manganese could elevate this person’s blood pressure, Vitamin C could cause insomnia, bleeding gums or capillary fragility, B1 could cause calcium loss or bone loss. Vitamin E could also elevate the blood pressure and cause excess adrenal stimulation. B vitamins in general could cause a nervous, wired feeling or insomnia in this person. These and many more serious problems could arise due to these nutrients over-stimulating an already fast metabolism. The Fast Oxidizers feel great and lose weight easily on a low carbohydrate diet. They are also the mysterious people whose cholesterol levels drop by adding more animal foods to their diets. This has baffled researchers for years but can now be explained.

The Slow Oxidizer is the more common type. They tend toward weight gain on their thighs and hips, have cold hands and feet, dry skin, and constipation. They are often the “burnout” victims many doctors write about. Calcium, Vitamin D, and copper are the most detrimental supplements for them. Their bodies tend to retain calcium, often depositing it in the soft tissues and circulatory system.