Also known as: Cu
Copper is an essential trace mineral that serves as a cofactor for numerous enzymes involved in energy production, iron metabolism, connective tissue formation, and antioxidant defense. It is critical for proper nervous system function and red blood cell formation.
Copper is the third most abundant trace mineral in the body, with the highest concentrations in the liver, brain, heart, and kidneys. It is an essential cofactor for key enzymes including cytochrome c oxidase (energy production), lysyl oxidase (collagen and elastin cross-linking), superoxide dismutase (antioxidant defense), and ceruloplasmin (iron metabolism). Copper is indispensable for iron absorption and mobilization, as ceruloplasmin oxidizes ferrous iron to the ferric form required for transferrin binding. Copper deficiency, although uncommon, can result in anemia unresponsive to iron therapy, neutropenia, and neurological abnormalities. Excessive zinc supplementation is a leading cause of acquired copper deficiency. The RDA for adults is 900 µg/day, and the tolerable upper intake level is 10 mg/day.
Copper-dependent ceruloplasmin is essential for oxidizing iron into the form needed for transport by transferrin. Copper deficiency can cause anemia that does not respond to iron supplementation alone.
Copper is a cofactor for lysyl oxidase, which cross-links collagen and elastin fibers, providing structural integrity to bones, blood vessels, and skin.
With a meal, separate from zinc by 2 hours if possible
Recommended when supplementing zinc above 30 mg/day to prevent copper depletion. Maintain a zinc-to-copper ratio of approximately 10:1.
Best absorbed and gentlest form
Widely available standard form
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