An essential mineral whose deficiencies produce various symptoms
Required to convert iron into hemoglobin, increase energy.
Copper is an essential nutrient found primarily in the bloodstream, as a co-factor in various enzymes, and in copper-based body pigments. Copper is involved in the formation of all connective tissue, hemoglobin and nervous system functions. Copper is an essential nutrient found primarily in the bloodstream on a plasma protein called ceruloplasmin. When copper is first absorbed in the gut it is transported to the liver bound to albumin. Copper is found in a variety of enzymes, including the copper centers of cytochrome c oxidase and the enzyme superoxide dismutase (containing copper and zinc). Copper is used for biological electron transport, the blue copper proteins that participate in electron transport include azurin and plastocyanin. The name "blue copper" comes from their intense blue color (about 600 nm) arising from a ligand-to-metal charge transfer (LMCT) absorption band.
Zinc and copper compete for absorption in the digestive tract so a dietary 10:1 balance must be maintained to prevent a deficiency.
A copper deficiency may produce an anemia-like symptoms because of its role in facilitating iron uptake. •
Copper is involved in the formation of all connective tissue, hemoglobin and the functioning of the nervous system. Copper helps proper bone formation and maintenance. Copper has a favorable effect upon the absorption and transport of iron. Copper keeps up your energy level by helping the body absorb iron effectively. Essential along with iron for the formation of hemoglobin in red blood cells. Important for protein and enzyme formation and for the nervous and reproductive systems, bones, hair, and pigmentation. Copper is necessary for various metabolic processes.
Copper is believed to prevent and help reverse white or gray hair, wrinkles, sagging skin, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, stroke and aortic aneurism (each of which has as its origin the break down of the elastic fibers in the arteries, skin and other tissues).
When the body does get a sufficient amount of copper, hemoglobin production is decreased and copper deficiency anemia can result. Insufficient amounts lead to inefficient utilization of iron and protein, diarrhea and stunted growth. Various enzyme reactions require copper. Long-term use of oral contraceptives can upset the balance of copper in the body causing either excessively high cholesterol; levels. For the body to work properly it must contain the proper balance of copper and zinc; and imbalance can lead to thyroid problems. Low (and high) copper levels are found in those with mental and emotional problems.
Technicals: The liver and brain contain the largest concentration of copper in the human body. Our body contains approximately 100 milligrams of copper, mostly found in our liver and skeleton. Blood and muscle tissue contain small amounts. Lysl oxidase is a copper-dependent enzyme that participates in the formation of collagen and elastin.
Cerebral palsy and hypoplasia of the cerebellum (congenital ataxia)
High blood cholesterol
Iron storage disease (abnormal iron accumulation in liver)
Reduced glucose tolerance (low blood sugar)
Neutropenia (low neutrophils)
testing
A copper deficiency may produce an anemia-like symptoms because of its role in facilitating iron uptake. Copper is necessary for the absorption & utilization of Iron; helps oxidize Vitamin C and works with Vitamin C to form Elastin, a chief component of the Elastin muscle fibers throughout the body; aids in the formation of red blood cells; helps proper bone formation & maintenance. Copper helps prevent aneurysms.
Sources: Occurs in both plant and animal tissue including potatoes, wholegrain products, fruit, meat, fish, eggs, vegetables, candy and drinks that contain chocolate. Drinking coffee and tea supplies you with copper and it is often found in foods containing iron.
Antagonist: Too much zinc reduces copper uptake.
Synergist: Copper allow the effective absorption & utilization of iron. Copper also helps oxidize Vitamin C, and works with Vitamin C to form Elastin.
Deficiencies Caused by: Zinc and copper compete for absorption in the digestive tract so a dietary 10:1 balance must be maintained to prevent a deficiency.
Signs or Symptoms of a Deficiency: Deficiencies can result in alopecia (hair loss), anemia, aneurysm, cerebral hemorrhage, arthritis (especially where growth plates are involved), criminal behavior, violent behavior, Cerebral palsy, hypoplasia of cerebellum, depression, dermatosis, diarrhea, dry brittle hair, fatigue, fragile bones, hernias, elevated blood cholesterol, otosis (lipping of epiphyseal plates), hypothyroid, hyperthyroid, ptosis, Kawasaki Disease, learning disabilities, respiratory disease, weakness, liver cirrhosis, Swachman's syndrome, ruptured vertebral discs problems, low blood sugar, hypoglycemia, varicose veins, white or gray hair, and skin sores. General weakness, impaired respiration, grey hair and skin sores
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