COPPER

Copper is an element found in trace amounts. It is accumulated mainly in the skeletal system, brain, liver and heart.Copper is involved in numerous enzymatic reactions. It plays a very important role in the creation of collagen – an important protein that is part of the bones, skin and connective tissue. In addition, copper is involved in the synthesis of elastin and melatonin affecting the state of our skin.Copper allows you to effectively use the body’s iron resources. It takes part in the synthesis of hemoglobin and together with iron it participates in transporting oxygen to every cell, especially to nerve tissue sensitive to hypoxia. It affects the brain and improves the activity of neurotransmitters. Copper, like zinc, has a protective effect on neurons within the hippocampus against damage from quinoline acid. Quinoline acid is a powerful neurotoxin of the central nervous system, including secreted by the Borrelia bacteria.Apart from zinc and manganese, copper is part of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme – a powerful antioxidant produced by the body to protect cells, tissues and essential physiological compounds against damage caused by free radicals.

 

Symptoms of copper deficiency:

Copper deficiency may lead to:

  • decrease in concentration and decrease in the ability to remember,
  • reduced immunity,
  • worsening of the skin and hair condition,
  • heart problems,
  • feeling of tingling and limb numbness,
  • lack of appetite,
  • cracking of blood vessels, the so-called thread veins.

Symptoms of excess amount of copper:

Overdose is rare. Too large amounts of copper in the body can cause muscle and stomach aches, nausea, impair the work of liver, heart, respiratory system.

Sources of copper in food:

Copper-rich products are primarily cereal products, such as whole-wheat bread, whole-wheat pasta, bran or oatmeal. In addition, it is found in the seeds of legumes, walnuts and hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, green leafy vegetables, tomatoes and potatoes. It also occurs in yellow cheese, liver, fish (mainly in herring), mushrooms, bitter cocoa and dried fruit. 

Supplementation with copper:

Supplements which contain copper:

Copper 2 mg, 60 capsules (Swanson) – product available here

Contraindications:

Copper preparations should not be used in people with renal insufficiency and hepatic insufficiency.