Copper
Health Benefits of Copper
An essential component of numerous enzymes and proteins, copper helps the body function normally. It’s necessary for the formation of one of the apparent superpower antioxidants, superoxide dismutase (SOD). It’s also critical for the creation of collagen, a core protein found in bones, connective tissues, and skin. And it is believed to help in the proper storage, use, and release of iron so critical to the formation of hemoglobin in red blood cells. Preliminary findings indicate that mild copper insufficiency may result in a cholesterol profile that increases heart disease risk. True copper deficiency may cause such symptoms as fatigue, high blood pressure, heart rhythm disorders, skeletal defects, infertility, and hair that is brittle and discolored.
Because zinc will deplete your body’s copper reserves when taken for longer than a month, the two minerals are often combined in supplement products. In other words, if you take zinc supplements for longer than one month, be sure to add 2 mg of copper to your daily regimen.
*No RDA for copper has been established. The amounts listed are based on the Food and Nutrition Board’s safe and adequate daily amounts
**These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
