Copper
DESCRIPTION:
Copper is located throughout the
body, incorporated into organic complexes, such as enzymes
involved in brain function and the Circulatory
System.
Copper is in itself an oxidant, yet
in the body it has an antioxidant function by being a
participant in the enzyme superoxide dismutase (S.O.D.). This
enzyme protects the cells from the damage caused by free
radicals and peroxides.
Copper is also part of the protein,
ceruloplasmin, found in the blood plasma. Ceruloplasmin
regulates the level of certain hormones in the blood and is also
required for the formation of red blood cells.
Additionally, copper plays a part in
energy production, melanin (Skin pigment) formation and fatty acid oxidation.
The risk of heart and circulatory
problems is increased with copper deficiency, especially if
accompanied by a deficiency of Selenium.
This is probably because the enzymes gluthathione peroxidase and
superoxide dismutase are restricted in their action, allowing
free radicals to go unchecked.
Copper deficiency can also
contribute to Anaemia,
bone diseases, nervous system disturbance and hair loss. In
children, growth is inhibited and the bones may become brittle.
Upper safe level for daily
supplementation: = 5mg
There is no EC Recommended Daily
Allowance for copper.
The British RNI (Reference Nutrient
Intake) is 1.2mg for adults, with higher amounts required by
lactating women.
A copper supplement may be necessary
when high dose Zinc
is being taken, as this may deplete copper. Copper is also
necessary in Menke’s syndrome (a rare genetic disease
characterised by the inability to absorb copper) (1). However in
this condition, copper injections are often prescribed.
Copper may be useful in combating
inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid Arthritis
and osteoarthritis (2).
High intakes of copper are toxic,
but chronic copper intoxication has not been reported in the
U.K. In the U.S.A. and West Germany, copper toxicity has been
associated with water contaminated with over 1.6mg copper per
litre.
INTERACTIONS
AND CONTRA-INDICATIONS
Wilson’s disease:
Copper should not be taken by sufferers of this genetic
disorder.
Food (mg/100g)
Oyster 7.6
Whelks 7.2
Lamb’s liver 6.0
Crab 4.8
Brewer’s yeast 3.3
Olives 1.6
Hazelnuts 1.4
Shrimps 0.8
Cod 0.6
Bread, wholemeal 0.25
Peas 0.2
Non-food sources of copper include
copper pipes (especially those carrying soft water) and copper
cooking/food-processing equipment.
REFERENCES:
1. Kaler SG. Diagnosis and therapy
of Menkes syndrome, a genetic form of copper deficiency. Am J
Clin Nutr ,67;5 suppl:1029S-1034S, 1998.
2. "Handbook of Dietary Supplements", Pamela Mason,
Blackwell Science, 1995.
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