Copper

Copper aids in the formation of bones, conversion of iron into haemoglobin, and works with zinc and vitamin C for the production of elastrin. It is necessary for the production of RNA, phospholipids, protein metabolism and adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Copper helps convert tyrosine into a pigment that colors the skin and hair. It is involved in the healing process, taste, healthy nerves, HDL to LDL cholesterol balance, and the formation of collagen. Copper is absorbed into the intestine and quickly moves to the blood stream. It is stored in the liver, kidneys, heart, brain, muscles, and bones.

FOOD SOURCES

Nuts, whole grains, most vegetables and pulses, red fruits, yeast, liver, black pepper, blackstrap molasses, cocoa, seafood, honey, horsetail.

SUPPLEMENTATION

Copper aspartate, copper gluconate (used in mouth deodorants), copper amino acid chelate, copper sulphate.

SIGNS OF DEFICIENCY

Anaemia with weakness, laboured breathing, skin sores, puffiness or swelling around ankles and wrists, skin problems including eczema, frequent infections, fatigue, loss of bone mass, osteoporosis, chronic deficiencies may contribute to higher cancer rate, increased cell damage, aging, and shorter life span. Excess blood levels of calcium, iron, zinc, lead, silver, molybdenum and sulphur reduce copper utilisation.

SIGNS OF TOXICITY

Toxemia, hyperactivity, hypoglycemia, brown facial spots, brown nipples, headaches, fatigue, constipation, PMS and early senility. Copper toxicity can result in serious mental and physical illness possibly including schizophrenia, autism, hypertension, stuttering, depression, insomnia. High levels of copper have been detected in victims of malignant tumours of digestive system, lung and breast, Hodgkin's disease, and systemic cancers including leukaemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.

DAILY MINIMUM REQUIREMENT

2 mg approx.