Copper, a trace mineral in the blood, is crucial for various bodily functions. It plays a key role in iron metabolism, aiding in the formation of red blood cells and helping maintain healthy bones, blood vessels, nerves, and immune function. Copper is also involved in the production of energy in cells, the development of connective tissue, and the functioning of the nervous system. Additionally, it acts as an antioxidant, helping to reduce damage from free radicals.
Copper deficiency, known as hypocupremia, can lead to a range of health problems. Symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, frequent sickness, and problems with memory and learning. Severe deficiency can result in anemia (due to its role in red blood cell formation), osteoporosis, and neurological issues like numbness and weakness in the limbs. The deficiency is usually due to a dietary lack of copper, certain genetic conditions, or excessive zinc intake, which can inhibit copper absorption. High zinc intake can reduce copper absorption, which in turn can impair iron metabolism.
Copper toxicity, or hypercupremia, can occur due to excessive intake of copper supplements, chronic exposure to copper (often through contaminated water), or due to certain genetic disorders like Wilson's disease. Symptoms of toxicity include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, liver and kidney damage, heart problems, and neurological symptoms like tremors and mood disturbances.
To maintain healthy blood copper levels:
Ensure an adequate intake of copper through a balanced diet that includes foods such as nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains, leafy greens, and shellfish.
If you have a genetic disorder that affects copper metabolism, like Wilson's disease, work closely with your healthcare provider to manage your copper levels through diet, medication, and regular monitoring.
When using copper cookware or pipes, ensure they are in good condition and not leaching excessive amounts of copper into your food or water.
Maintain a balanced intake of other minerals that interact with copper, such as zinc and iron, to prevent imbalances that can affect copper absorption and utilization.
Copper (Free) can be measured in: mg/L, µg/100mL, µg/dL, µg/L, µg/mL, µg%, µmol/L
Reference ranges represent typical values for healthy individuals. Your healthcare provider must interpret your specific results.
| Age Range | Gender | Unit | Optimal | Normal | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All ages | All genders | µmol/L | - | 1.6 - 2.4 | Brewer, 2012 |
Copper is a trace element that plays a significant role in brain health and function. It is involved in the formation of myelin, neurotransmitter synthesis, and as an antioxidant. An imbalance in copper levels, can lead to neurological symptoms including cognitive impairments and motor disorders. [Salustri, 2010]
Copper is essential for absorbing iron from the gut[Reeves, 2004]. Both its deficiency and excess impair iron absorption[Lee, 1968].
Dietary Zinc decreases copper absorption in the intestine[Fischer, 1981]. High Zinc status may be part of a reason for copper deficiency.[Arredondo, 2006][Wapnir, 1991]
Copper deficiency can lead to functional iron deficiency despite adequate ferritin stores, as iron cannot be properly mobilized without adequate copper-dependent activity.[Fields, 1997]
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