Information Page

General Information

Copper is a trace mineral that is absorbed in digestion. From there, is used in the liver and transported via plasma to maintain the bloodstream, and any excess is excreted as bile. This important component is vital for over-all well-being and readily available but carries many toxicity risks.

Food Sources

a. Animal Sources

Shellfish and offal are two great sources of copper that come from animal products – Kidneys and liver are particularly noted. With the absence of shellfish from the usual daily diet and many peoples aversion to offal, these forms are not commonly available, so anyone looking to natural means may instead require a plant source.

b. Plant Sources

The natural, plant-based sources of copper are more readily available. Nuts and potatoes are a simple, easily available method. Alternatively you can find the mineral in dried fruits and leafy greens, such as spinach and kale.

Benefits and Therapeutic Effects

Copper is vital to the physical well-being of any individual, mostly because of its role within the bloodstream, copper allows for the release of iron into the blood and the reproduction of both white and red blood cells.

Copper also strengthens the blood vessels, nerves and bones and is even thought to have a beneficial effect on infant development.

Signs of Deficiency

Deficiency is very rare, due to the low RDA and availability of the mineral, but if somebody is lacking in copper then following signs should be expected: anaemia, bone weakness leading to osteoporosis, immune system weakness and possibly even impaired growth.

This is due to the decreased ability for the mineral to function in its key roles and the lack of iron that therefore comes about.

Dosages

The average RDA of copper is 1.2mg per day. Because of this low level and the easy access to copper within the diet, many doctors will inform against adding the mineral to your diet via a supplement because of the potential risks. Pregnant and lactating women, however, are advised to seek a higher dosage. Should anyone need or decide to include a supplement, they should not exceed a dosage of 1mg a day.

Always check with your health care provider before adding any supplement to your diet.

Side Effects and/or Toxicity

Because of the increased risk of toxic copper intake, side effects should be noted.

The lesser problems that could potentially be experienced are gastrointestinal issues such as pain, diarrhoea and sickness. If high levels of copper are present in the brain, liver and kidneys, more serious disorders can occur – such as hepatitis – and the function of these organs can be severely inhibited.

In rare cases, some people are born with a natural increase in the mineral called Wilson’s disease. This can lead to liver failure and neurological and psychiatric issues.

Conclusion

In summary, while this trace mineral is not needed in high daily doses, its function within the body in areas such as the bloodstream is so crucial that it is important to ensure the RDA is reached.

Supplements are not advised because of the availability within the diet and the risk of problem such as those seen in the liver.