Hey friends! Today, let’s have a heart-to-heart about something that might be silently messing with your health goals – the infamous “Calcium Shell”. Dr. Eck first discovered the Calcium Shell and sheds some light on this phenomenon, and I’m going to break it down for you in the simplest way possible. The first time I came across this concept was upon the review of a HTMA (Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis) of a 12 year old client. I had never heard of this before and was fascinated upon reading and learning about Dr. Eck’s work.

So, What’s this Calcium Shell Anyway?

Think of the Calcium Shell as a sneaky barricade preventing your body from absorbing the good stuff it needs. It’s literally like having a shield or wall around your cells, making it tricky for nutrients and minerals to get in and toxins to get out.

Sneaky, right?

Not only does the calcium shell block essential nutrients, but it also effects thyroid hormone and glucose from entering the cell. Some of the most important minerals not being absorbed in an adequate manner are magnesium, potassium, sodium and phosphorus.  Many of the symptoms we experience on a daily basis are attributed to the root-cause of these mineral ratios, being completely out of balance.

How Does the Calcium Cell Form?

Life can be a bit challenging for our bodies. Trauma, stress, poor nutrition, and environmental toxins can team up and encourage the Calcium Shell to set up shop. It’s like our cells decide to build a fortress to protect themselves, but in the process, they also block all the good stuff from getting in.

As the adrenal glands become nutritionally depleted, sodium and potassium levels become too low in the tissues. When this happens, calcium then starts to form deposits all over the body and forms a “shell around the cells” in your muscles, joints, brain and arteries.

Enter, pain and inflammation, plus an array of other symptoms indicative of imbalanced mineral ratios.

Common Symptoms of a Calcium Shell

Feeling a bit off but can’t put your finger on it? Your Calcium Shell might be sending out distress signals.

Look out for:

• Energy Slumps: The kind that leaves you reaching for that third cup of coffee.
• Digestive Drama: Bloating, irregularity, or just feeling ‘meh’ after meals.
• Mood Swings: Because who needs a rollercoaster when you’re just trying to live your best life?
• Stubborn Weight: Despite your best efforts, those extra pounds seem to be playing hide and seek.

Other symptoms of a Calcium Shell may be… (but not limited to…)

• Sugar Cravings
• Low Blood Sugar
• Joint and muscle pain
• Kidney stones
• Arthritis, osteoporosis, bone spurs
• Low Vitamin D
• Tooth decay
• Apathy, brain fog
• Anxiety, irritability, outbursts
• Anger, racing mind especially is copper toxicity is present
• Feeling of being disconnected
• Tinnitus (ringing of the ears)
• Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Muscle cramps
• Slower Thyroid Function
• Insomnia
• Depression, anxiety

Causes of a Calcium Shell

Often, these symptoms of a Calcium Shell can often overlap with other conditions, such as Copper Toxicity. This is another concept worthy of talking about, with its own array of symptoms that we’ll unpack in the next article. Copper toxicity actually initiates the Calcium Shell by lowering potassium and initially raising sodium and then suddenly dropping sodium as it burns out the adrenals. As a response to stress and mineral imbalance, cells may deposit excess calcium, forming a protective barrier or “shell.”

Similar to copper, iodine levels whether in excess or deficiency are a factor to explore. Iodine is a crucial element for thyroid hormone synthesis, and when iodine levels are insufficient, the thyroid’s normal functioning is compromised. In response to iodine deficiency, the thyroid may become underactive, leading to a disruption in the delicate balance of minerals, including calcium, at the cellular level. Similarly, an abundance of iodine may trigger a stress response in cells, leading to inflammation and an attempt to protect against this imbalance.

Trauma, whether physical or emotional, can be another significant factor in the formation of a calcium shell. When an individual experiences trauma, the body often responds with a heightened stress reaction. This stress response can lead to increased inflammation and hormonal fluctuations, triggering the deposit of excess calcium around cells as a protective measure. This is often why someone may feel emotionally disconnected and apathetic.

Excessive calcium supplementation is another potential cause. It’s important to remember that minerals in the body need to be in balance. There is always a synergist and antagonist in the mineral system, and too much or too little of one or the other can lead to havoc on the body and create an array of unwelcome symptoms.

Intervention Time – Let’s Crack the Shell!

It’s important to remember that everyone is unique and a recommended protocol is not a one size fits all approach. After determining if a client has a Calcium Shell, there’s a slow series of recommended protocols that we may use to help the body rebalance naturally.

1. Mindful & Holistic Nutrition: It’s not a diet; it’s a lifestyle. It’s not just about calcium; it’s about a nutrient symphony and a perfect ratio balance of calcium/magnesium. Some recommendations may include magnesium-rich foods (hello, dark leafy greens!), and team them up with vitamin D and K2 for a nutrient powerhouse.
2. Functional Medicine Detox: Time for a body reset! Embrace detox strategies – think sweat sessions, herbal teas, and foods that love your liver (yes, beets, we’re looking at you). I offer a group Functional Medicine Detox quarterly. You can add your name to be included to that invite list here!
3. Chill Vibes Only: What’s stressing you out? What’s on your plate? Literally and metaphorically. Take stock and make small tweaks. Stress is like the VIP ticket for the Calcium Shell party. Incorporate activities that bring you joy – whether it’s a walk in the park, meditation, Hatha yoga, infrared sauna or belting out your favorite tunes in the shower. Listen to your body. It’s always giving you signals. Don’t ignore the whispers; they might save you from a Calcium Shell takeover.

In a Nutshell

The Calcium Shell is like that friend who means well but overstays their welcome. It’s time to show it the door and invite in the nutrients, energy, and vibrant health you deserve. It’s time to break free!

Here’s where I can support you. As an Integrative Health Practitioner, we can explore appropriate “root cause” testing such as an HTMA and personalized strategies to restore mineral balance, address potential toxicity, and foster a healthier you. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of nutrition, managing stress, or seeking support for overall wellness, let’s connect. Reach out to schedule a consultation, and let’s craft a plan tailored to your unique needs. Your body deserves the best care, and I’m here to guide you on this transformative adventure. Say goodbye to unexplained symptoms and hello to a vibrant, balanced life! 🌿

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