Each and every mineral is required in some amounts for the proper functioning and metabolism of the body. Some are macro-elements and others are micro-elements and are required in very less amounts. Copper is a micro-element and the daily requirement is only 0.02 gms per day. Copper comes in two forms, copper gluconate and copper sulfate. Copper is a trace element that is found in virtually every cell of the human body.
**Copper is usually found in most foods. You can meet the body’s requirement of copper intake by eating shellfish. You can also get your dietary copper from many forms of nuts such as brazil nuts and hazelnuts. Cocoa also contains copper, as do honey, dried beans and whole wheat products.
**Functions: It is required for the promotion of iron utilization in hemoglobin.
It is a primary element in the production of melanin in the human body. Melanin is responsible for pigmentation in the eyes, hair and skin.
Copper is active in many ways in the human body. It is a powerful antioxidant which acts on the body to remove free radicals and help prevent cell structure damage. It is also thought to have anti-carcinogenic properties, and unlike the copper bracelets sold as an arthritis cure, copper inside the body can help to alleviate some arthritis pain.
The copper balance is the body can be upset by extremely high intakes of high fiber diets, iron or vitamin C, all of which interfere with the way the body metabolizes the copper. Prolonged intake of zinc which is at a ratio greater than ten to one of intake of copper can also interfere with absorption and metabolism in the body.
Before starting any form of supplementation you should consult a doctor.
