Copper
Copper is the third most abundant trace mineral in the body. It is found in a variety of enzymes , including the copper centers of cytochrome c oxidase, the Cu-Zn containing enzyme superoxide dismutase, and is the central metal in the oxygen carrying pigment hemocyanin.
Functionality:
It helps protect the cardiovascular, skeletal, and nervous systems. It promotes low cholesterol levels. Copper also helps supply the heart with healthy, oxygenated blood. It works together with iron in the respiration and synthesis of hemoglobin.
Deficiency Diseases:
Menke's syndrome, Wilsons Disease, kwashiorkor, Neutropenia
Overdose Disease: Diarrhea, Vomiting, Liver damage as well as Discoloration of the skin and hair
Deficiency Symptoms:
- Changes in hair colour & texture
- Hair loss
- Disturbances to the nervous system
- Bone diseases
Rich Sources:
Good sources include Cocoa; Liver; Kidney; Oysters; Peas; Raisins. Molluscs and shellfish are rich sources of copper, as are betel leaves, arecanuts and other nuts.
Important for:
-
- Aids in formation of collagen
- Aids in maintaining fertility
- Assists the absorption and utilization of Iron
- Helps body used its stored iron
- Helps make red blood cells
- May help fight bone loss
- May protect from damage by free radicals
- Promotes blood clotting
- Promotes healthy skin and hair pigmentation
- Strengthens blood vessels, bones, tendons, and nerves
- Various enzymatic processes in the body
Best Suitable Composition:
Copper is best absorbed and utilized in the body when cobalt, iron, zinc and folic acid is available.
Recommended Daily Intake:
