In a recent AP report, it was disclosed that hundreds of people claiming health problems resulting from heavy use of denture creams are suing mega-corporations Procter & Gamble Co., which makes the cream Fixodent, and GlaxoSmithKline, manufacturer of PoliGrip. At least 25 lawsuits from 11 states have been consolidated for pretrial hearings before a federal judge in Miami, Florida, who will decide whether or not the suits go to trial. The suits claim that the manufacturers failed to give warning that heavy use of these products could lead to health problems associated with over-absorption of zinc, an element used in many denture creams. Zinc is a mineral essential to health and is found in many foods and nutritional supplements. However, excess zinc disturbs the healthy copper-zinc ratio found in humans and can thus foster illnesses associated with copper deficiency. Denture cream manufacturers have stated that their products are safe when used as directed.

These legal cases bring to light the importance of mineral balance for our health. Many health problems are related to imbalances of minerals in our body. Magnesium and potassium deficiencies are common with heart and cardiovascular illnesses. Zinc and selenium deficiencies are common with depressed immune function. Calcium, magnesium, boron, and phosphorus are important minerals needed for bone growth and repair. Iodine is vital for thyroid functioning. Chromium is vital for blood sugar regulation. In fact, most of our body's systems depend on proper mineral levels to maintain proper functioning.

Many factors affect mineral balance. Stress, pH acidity, poor nutrition, excess exposure to specific minerals or chemicals that react with certain minerals, exposure to electromagnetic fields, and other factors can influence mineral metabolism. When seeking to treat common health challenges it is helpful to assess mineral levels and mineral metabolism to ensure that these key elements are supporting our health rather than interfering with our well-being.

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