Copper

How You May Benefit:

Boost immune functioning
Support powerful antioxidant functions, boosting the immune system
Improve cardiovascular health
Protect against heart and cardiovascular ailments by supporting healthy arteries
Increase available energy
Necessary for optimal energy levels, supporting iron utilization and ATP production
Increase oxygen uptake
Support respiratory function by aiding the utilization of iron
Reduce inflammation
Alleviate pain of arthritis by supporting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions in the body
Strengthen connective tissue
Ensure the health of collagen and elastin, which are necessary for bone and connective-tissue formation

Overview

Necessary for energy and respiratory function, copper also supports the formation of bone, collagen, red blood cells, healthy nerves and joints, hair and skin coloring, plus many enzymatic functions of the human body. It's seldom supplemented by itself as most people get enough from a multivitamin/mineral.

Usage

Amount: 1.5 to 3 mg may be used daily, usually in the form of a multivitamin/mineral.

Timing: Vitamin C, zinc, and manganese can all interfere with copper absorption, so it's recommended that if you do use copper separately, take it at least two hours before or after using any of the above nutrients.

Tip: Approximately a 10:1 ratio between zinc and copper is very important because these minerals compete for uptake. If supplementing with 2 mg of copper, it's wise to add 20 mg of zinc. Too much of one can cause a deficiency of the other.

As well, five to ten grams of Vitamin C may cause a copper imbalance.

As copper is lost through sweat and is necessary for the health of all connective tissues, active people might want to make sure it's included in their multivitamin/mineral supplement to counteract possible deficiencies.

Safety Information

Safety:
Copper supplements should not be used by anyone with Wilson's disease.

Toxicity:
In rare cases, an overabundance can cause fatigue, irritability, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Bans and Restrictions:
None noted.

References

Bremner, I., and Beattie, J.H., "Copper and Zinc Metabolism in Health and Disease: Speciation and Interactions," Proc Nutr Soc 54.2 (1995) : 489-99.

Brewer, G.J., et al., "Treatment of Wilson's Disease with Zinc: XI. Interaction with Other Anticopper Agents," J Am Coll Nutr 12.1 (1993) : 26-30.

Brzozowska, A., "(Interaction of Iron, Zinc and Copper in the Body of Animals and Humans)," Rocz Panstw Zakl Hig 40.4-6 (1989) : 302-12.

Turnlund, J.R., "Copper Nutriture, Bioavailability, and the Influence of Dietary Factors," J Am Diet Assoc 88.3 (1988) : 303-8.

Williams, D.M., "Copper Deficiency in Humans," Semin Hematol 20.2 (1983) : 118-28.

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