Metabolic Panel for Mental Health

“…biochemical imbalances in the body can significantly impact brain function, mood, and behavior”

Mary Tufano

THE METABOLIC PANEL FOR MENTAL HEALTH:

A Guide for Concerned Loved Ones

When a loved one is grappling with mental health challenges, finding the proper support can feel overwhelming. Many people don’t realize that biochemical imbalances in the body can significantly impact brain function, mood, and behavior.

The METABOLIC PANEL by DHA Labs

The Metabolic Panel is a specialized set of tests designed to assess critical nutrients and biochemical markers associated with mental health. Originally developed by the Pfeiffer Treatment Center, this panel is a powerful resource for identifying imbalances linked to conditions such as:

Autism and Asperger’s syndrome
ADHD and ADD
Anxiety and depression
Bipolar disorder
Schizophrenia
Aggressive or violent behavior

These tests evaluate levels of kryptopyrrole, copper, zinc, and histamine in the body—key players in brain chemistry and neurotransmitter production. By understanding these imbalances, we can design tailored nutrient therapy programs to support mental wellness.

The Components of the Metabolic Panel

1. Kryptopyrrole Urinary Quantitative

What it Measures: Elevated kryptopyrrole levels in the urine, a marker of pyrrole disorder.
Why it Matters: Pyroluria can lead to significant deficiencies in zinc and vitamin B6, both critical for brain function. Symptoms include poor stress tolerance, mood swings, depression, anxiety, and sensory sensitivities.
Testing Process: An at-home collection kit provides a convenient way to assess this marker, with all materials, shipping, and lab analysis included.

2. Copper Serum

What it Measures: Levels of copper in the bloodstream.
Why it Matters: Elevated copper can disrupt brain chemistry by lowering dopamine and increasing norepinephrine, potentially causing aggression, hyperactivity, postpartum depression, and psychosis. High copper levels can also deplete zinc, compounding imbalances.

3. Zinc Plasma

What it Measures: Zinc levels in the plasma.
Why it Matters: Zinc deficiency affects more than 90% of individuals with depression, ADHD, autism, and schizophrenia. It plays a role in immune function, wound healing, growth, and neurotransmitter production.

4. Whole Blood Histamine

What it Measures: Histamine levels as a marker for methylation efficiency.
Why it Matters: Methylation imbalances influence serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine production. Over-methylation is linked to anxiety and panic, while under-methylation is associated with depression and obsessive behaviors.

5. Ceruloplasmin

What it Measures: The protein that binds copper and regulates iron metabolism.
Why it Matters: Elevated “free copper” levels, unbound to ceruloplasmin, contribute to oxidative stress—a common issue in autism, ADHD, and psychosis.

The Science Behind Biochemical Imbalances

Dr. William J. Walsh, a pioneer in nutritional medicine and founder of the Walsh Research Institute, has dedicated decades of research to understanding the relationship between biochemistry and mental health. He observed recurring imbalances in individuals with diverse mental health conditions, including:

Copper Overload: Present in hyperactivity, postpartum depression, and schizophrenia.
Pyrrole Disorder: Affects stress tolerance and emotional stability.
Zinc Deficiency: Impairs mood regulation and immune function.
Methylation Imbalances: Disrupt neurotransmitter production, leading to anxiety or depression.

Dr. Walsh’s research underscores the importance of personalized approaches to addressing these imbalances for better mental health outcomes.

How the METABOLIC PANEL Helps

By evaluating an individual’s unique biochemical profile, the Metabolic Panel enables us to:

Pinpoint Root Causes: Determine whether symptoms stem from nutrient deficiencies or chemical imbalances.
Develop Personalized Treatments: Create nutrient therapy programs tailored to the individual, using vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Complement Conventional Treatments: Nutrient therapies are generally safe to use alongside prescription medications, enhancing overall effectiveness.

For example, correcting a zinc deficiency can improve symptoms of depression, while balancing copper levels may alleviate aggression or anxiety.

The Testing Process

The Metabolic Panel includes both at-home and in-lab testing:

Kryptopyrrole Testing: Conducted using a convenient at-home kit. All materials and shipping costs are included.
Blood Tests (Copper, Zinc, Histamine): Performed by a phlebotomist.

Why This Matters for Loved Ones

If you’re concerned about your loved one’s mental health, understanding the role of biochemistry can provide hope and actionable steps. Many mental health conditions have underlying physiological causes that can be addressed through targeted treatments. Encouraging your loved one to undergo metabolic testing may help uncover these root causes and guide them toward improved mental wellness.

Next Steps

Supporting mental health involves a holistic approach, and addressing biochemical imbalances is a crucial piece of the puzzle. With the right tools and guidance, you can help your loved one move toward a healthier, more balanced life.

If you believe the Metabolic Panel could benefit your loved one, contact Mary Tufano at The Root Cause Solution for more information. 631.629.9942 or email marytufano@therootcausesolution.com.