Copper

What is Copper?

Copper is an essential trace mineral required by the human body for normal growth, development, and physiological function. It plays a critical role in enzymatic reactions, energy production, and the maintenance of the immune system. Importantly, copper cannot be synthesised by the body and therefore must be obtained through a balanced diet or supplementation. Food sources rich in copper include organ meats (e.g. liver), shellfish, legumes, nuts and seeds.

Health Benefits:

Enhances Energy Production

Copper is key to energy production within the body as it is a key component of enzymes that are involved in cellular respiration and facilitating iron metabolism for oxygen transport. Deficiency in copper can lead to consistent feelings of fatigue, and impaired function in energy-intensive tissues such as the brain.

Antimicrobial Action

The antimicrobial properties of copper are well evidenced and are a key health benefit of the mineral. Studies have repeatedly evidenced that copper can help to protect the body from bacteria, viruses, and fungi. There are various suggested mechanisms of this beneficial antimicrobial action including damaging cell membranes, and disrupting DNA.

Antioxidant Action

Copper can help to protect cells from oxidative stress caused by the build up of harmful free radicals by serving as a cofactor of enzymes involved in the neutralisation of such free radicals. Research suggests that impaired oxidative defence as a result of copper deficiency can contribute to occurrence of hypercholesterolemia (excess cholesterol within the blood stream) and hypertension, highlighting the importance of coppers antioxidant role in protecting cardiovascular health.

History:

Copper has been a long history of use both to support health and produce things such as tools and jewellery. Ancient civilisations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans valued copper for its antimicrobial properties, using it to store water and treat wounds. Moreover, in traditional medicine systems, copper was associated with vitality, circulation, and healing.

Typical Use:

Copper is naturally present in a balanced diet due to its presence in a wide range of foods, including organ meats, nuts and seeds, whole grains and dark chocolate, however many choose to supplement their copper intake to ensure they fully support their health. In supplements, copper is commonly included in multimineral formulations to provide a wide range of health benefits.