Dietary copper.
Copper is an essential trace mineral, present in all tissues and along with iron  helps in the formation of red blood cells and the biosynthesis of hemoglobin. The latest is a protein which transfers oxygen to all systems and organs. Copper is used in glucose metabolism as well. It also helps in maintaining the blood vessels in a healthy state, nervous and immune system in good function and bones strong and well formed. Copper plays a key role in absorption and utilization of iron and in synthesis of collagen, a structural protein, necessary for the formation of connective tissue, skin and bones. Copper is contained in an enzyme called tyrosinase and helps in the production of melanin, the pigment that gives a characteristic color to the skin, retina and hair.
In general, the body needs copper for normal growth and health. Perhaps food supplementation is necessary for people who have a need for increased amounts of copper. In fact, under certain circumstances, such as prolonged stress, kidney problems, burns, pancreas disease, diarrhea and other intestine medical conditions, the needs for copper can increase significantly.
Sources of dietary copper.
The best sources of copper are oysters, lobster, crab and other shellfish. Cereals, whole grains, beans, lentils, nuts, pecans, almonds, tomatoes, potatoes, beef liver and organ meats are good sources of copper too. Dark leafy greens, avocados, bananas, grapes, dried fruits, dried legumes, cocoa, black peppers, cashews, blackstrap molasses and yeast are also dietary sources of copper. For people who are unable to get enough copper in their regular diet, food supplementation is available in the market. Try the  button, if you want to find copper food supplements online.
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Copper deficiency and toxicity.
Although dietary deficiency in copper is not very common in humans, when it happens, it leads to anemia, decrease of HDL (good cholesterol), skin sores, thin hair and osteoporosis. Children with Menkes syndrome get heavily deficient, since they present inability for adequate copper absorption.
In large amounts, copper is toxic. High dosages may cause weakness, headache, vomiting, stomach upset and diarrhea. There is a rare hereditary disorder called Wilson’s disease that causes deposits of copper in the liver, brain and other organs. The increased copper in these tissues leads to hepatitis, renal and neurological problems.
Recommendations for dietary copper.
It has to be mentioned that people who drink tap water coming though new installed copper pipes, may need to abstain from any supplementation, since the likelihood for them to take adequate amounts of copper or more than that, is very high. In such cases, a dietician's advice may be necessary.
The recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) for copper are half to one milligram for infants, one to two milligrams for children and two milligrams for adults. Dose up to three milligrams per day may be needed for people who take zing food supplements.
The recommended doses should not be exceeded. |
