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Copper

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copper Copper is a trace mineral that is essential for human health. It works with enzymes, which are proteins that aid in the biochemical reactions of every cell. Copper assists these enzymes in many crucial reactions in the body.

Functions

Copper’s functions include:
  • Assisting in energy production
  • Protecting cells from free radical damage
  • Helping lysyl oxidase, an enzyme that strengthens connective tissue
  • Assisting the brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine, and dopamine
  • Helping your body make hemoglobin, which is needed to carry oxygen to red blood cells
  • Keeping the immune system, bones, blood vessels, and nerves healthy

Recommended Intake

Age Group Recommended Dietary Allowance/Adequate Intake
(micrograms/day) 		Upper Limit
(micrograms/day)
0-6 months 200 Not determinable
7-12 months 220 Not determinable
1-3 years 340 1,000
4-8 years 440 3,000
9-13 years 700 5,000
14-18 years 890 8,000
19 years and older 900 10,000
Pregnancy
18 years and younger 		1,000 8,000
Pregnancy
over 18 years 		1,000 10,000
Lactation
18 years and younger 		1,300 8,000
Lactation
over 18 years 		1,300 10,000
*Adequate intakes

Copper Deficiency

Many studies show that Americans consume less than adequate amounts of dietary copper. However, copper deficiency in adults is rare. A deficiency may occur, though, due to certain genetic problems, long-term shortages of dietary copper, or excessive intakes of zinc and iron. In addition, premature infants and infants suffering from malnutrition may have deficiencies of copper. People who have had gastric surgery or have conditions that affect how their bodies absorb nutrients are also at risk for copper deficiency.
Symptoms of copper deficiency include anemia, bone loss, a decrease in certain white blood cells, loss of hair color, and pale skin.
If you are unable to meet your copper needs through dietary sources, copper supplements may be necessary. Copper supplements are usually taken by mouth, but in some cases are given by injection. Your doctor should determine if you need such supplementation.

Copper Toxicity

Cases of toxicity from copper are rare.
Excess copper intake may lead to liver and kidney damage. Symptoms of copper toxicity may include:
  • Abdominal pain
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Diarrhea
  • Coma
  • Signs of liver damage like yellow eyes or skin

Major Food Sources

Foods high in copper include:
  • Beef liver
  • Shellfish
  • Cashews
  • Barley
  • Sunflower seeds
  • Almonds
  • Hazelnuts
  • Lentils
  • Chocolate

Health Implications

If you have a condition that impairs your body’s ability to absorb, use, and excrete copper, your doctor may recommend changing your dietary intake of copper. For example, Wilson’s disease is a genetic condition in which the body cannot excrete copper resulting in increased copper levels in the body. Another genetic disease, Menkes syndrome , prevents copper absorption in the intestine and produces symptoms of copper deficiency.
Taking certain medicines or supplements may also affect your copper levels. Zinc supplements, for instance, can interfere with how your body absorbs copper. If you are concerned about how much copper you are getting in your diet, talk to your doctor.

RESOURCES

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics http://www.eatright.org/

Food and Nutrition Information Center US Department of Agriculture http://www.usda.gov/

CANADIAN RESOURCES

Dietitians of Canada http://www.dietitians.ca/

Health Canada http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca

References

Copper. Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University website. Available at: http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/minerals/copper/. Accessed September 19, 2012.

Copper deficiency. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php. Updated June 27, 2012. Accessed September 19, 2012.

Dietary reference intakes: elements. Institute of Medicine website. Available at: http://www.iom.edu/Global/News%20Announcements/~/media/48FAAA2FD9E74D95BBDA2236E7387B49.ashx. Accessed October 19, 2010.

Obikoya G. The benefits of zinc. The Vitamins & Nutrition Center website. Available at: http://www.vitamins-nutrition.org/vitamins/zinc.html. Accessed October 19, 2010.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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