1-602-995-1580
sodium/potassium ratio, also called a sodium/potassium inversion. An inversion is indicated
whenever the sodium/potassium ratio is less than 2.5:1 in an unwashed hair sample. As the ratio
becomes even lower, the inversion is considered more extreme. A lower ratio increases the
likelihood of experiencing symptoms related to this critical mineral imbalance.
The Meaning Of An Inversion
Research at the Eck Institute indicates that an inversion can be understood in a number of
ways. The different ways of understanding an inversion overlap and relate to one another. Let us
discuss them one by one.
Adrenal Burnout. The sodium/potassium ratio is called 'the vitality Ratio'. A low ratio is
indicative of an exhaustion stage of stress. A high sodium/potassium ratio is an alarm or early
stage of stress. As the ratio declines, the body moves into an exhaustion stage of stress.
The sodium level is controlled by aldosterone. As adrenal activity declines, sodium falls in
relation to potassium. Potassium is more closely tied to the level of the glucocorticoid hormones
(cortisone and cortisol). Hans Selye, M.D. noted that cortisol levels rise in the exhaustion stage
of stress.
A Diabetic Trend. An inversion is a clear indicator of glucose intolerance. The body is unable to
adequately burn glucose in the Krebs and glycolysis cycles adequately. This contributes to
fatigue, cravings for sweets and many other symptoms. A ratio less than 1.5:1 that persists is
associated with the development of diabetes.
Protein Catabolism. When the body cannot burn sugars properly, it begins to break down
tissue proteins to use for energy. Excessive tissue breakdown can contribute to many health
conditions. For example, if tissue breakdown occurs in the joints, arthritis may result. If tissue
breakdown occurs in the stomach lining, an ulcer may result.
Frustration. An inversion is closely associated with a personality that is deep in frustration, and
often resentful and hostile. The person is still in a fighting phase, but is not successful - like
beating one's head against the wall. This is sometimes called a 'double-bind' situation.
Chronic Stress. We differentiate between acute and chronic stress. Acute stress is often
indicated by a high sodium/potassium ratio, whereas chronic stress is indicated by a low
sodium/potassium ratio. Chronic means the stress, whether from an internal or external source,
has been going on for some time and the body is not successfully overcoming the stress.
Whereas acute stress is related to inflammation and acute conditions, chronic stress is
associated with breakdown of tissue proteins and with chronic illness.
Potassium Loss From The Cells. Chart-wise, the potassium level is high relative to sodium in
an inversion, in part, because potassium is being lost from the cells and is released as cells die.
For this reason, at times, individuals with inversions have symptoms of potassium deficiency.
Certain nutritional products, such as the aspartates, may be recommended to supply potassium in
a readily absorbable form to these individuals.
Hidden Copper Toxicity. Hidden copper imbalance is indicated by an inversion because proper
copper balance requires strong adrenal gland activity. As the adrenal glands weaken, the body is
unable to bind copper properly. Copper then begins to accumulate in various body tissues.
An Impaired Immune System. A sodium/potassium inversion is the prime indicator of impaired
immune system activity. Commonly, a chronic sinus infection or other chronic infections are
present. Tissue catabolism and hidden copper imbalance may contribute to the impairment of the
immune system when the sodium/potassium ratio is low.
Symptoms Associated With Sodium/Potassium Inversions
Mild inversions (when the Na/K ratio is 2-2.5:1) may not be associated with any obvious
symptoms. As the ratio drops lower than 2:1, however, feelings of fatigue and frustration are
much more common. Sweet cravings and other glucose tolerance abnormalities are also
common. The immune system may be impaired so that one is prone to colds or other infections.
As the sodium/potassium ratio becomes chronically less than 1.5:1, the likelihood increases
for more serious conditions. Ulcers, digestive difficulties, cardiovascular conditions, diabetes,
cardiomyopathy, arthritis, allergies, asthma and malignancies become more common. A ratio less
than 1:1 in an adult is a definite danger indicator for cardiovascular disease.
It is rare for an adult to have a sodium/potassium ratio less than 0.5:1. Children, on the other
hand, often reveal sodium/potassium ratios less than 1:1, with no apparent harm. These children
are, however, under chronic stress and are prone to infections, allergies and behavior and
learning problems.
Copyright © 1991
The preceding statements have not been evaluated by the
Food and Drug Administration
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
