The Calcium to Potassium (Ca/K) ratio in hair tissue mineral analysis is known as the thyroid ratio. This is because calcium and potassium both play important roles in regulating thyroid activity.
The thyroid gland regulates the metabolic rate, also referred to as the oxidation rate of the body. A higher calcium to potassium ratio, or a high thyroid ratio, indicates that the body’s oxidation rate is slow. On the other hand, high potassium levels in relation to calcium indicate a fast oxidation rate. When the thyroid (and adrenal) ratios are not normal, the efficiency of energy production in the body decreases. It is like an engine that is turning too slow or too fast – power output declines.
Dr. Paul Eck, the founder of Analytical Research Laboratories, stated that the numerical ranges for high, low, and ideal Ca/K ratios are as follows:
- Above 32 – Severe low thyroid activity
- 16-32 – Sluggish thyroid activity
- 8-16 – Moderate sluggish thyroid activity
- 4-8 – Mild sluggish thyroid activity
- 4 – IDEAL
- 2-4 – Mild fast thyroid activity
- 1-2 – Moderate fast thyroid activity
- Below 1 – Excessive thyroid activity
Symptoms of low thyroid activity – Weight gain, fatigue, lack of sweating, cold hands and feet, constipation, dry skin and dry hair.
Symptoms of excessive thyroid activity – Hyperactivity, irritability, excessive sweating, nervousness, frequent bowel movements or diarrhea when stressed, oily hair and oily skin.
Because of the impact of toxic metal elimination, infections, and toxic chemicals, the calcium to potassium ratio can vary with each hair analysis test. However, as the Ca/K ratio approaches the ideal of 4:1, the body chemistry improves.
It is also important to note that because a hair analysis is a body tissue test, the results may differ from those of blood tests. A blood test may reveal normal thyroid activity, whereas a hair analysis test report may reveal impaired thyroid function. Mineral ratios derived from hair analysis are the most accurate way to determine how various critical areas of the body are functioning.