Copper is an important trace element needed for survival. It is found in all tissues and plays a role in the production of red blood cells and the maintenance of nerve and immune cells. It also helps the body build collagen and absorb iron, and it plays a major role in energy production. Most of the copper in the body is found in the liver, brain, heart, kidneys, and skeletal muscle. Both too much and too little copper can affect the way the brain works. Disabilities have been linked to Menkes, Wilson’s, and Alzheimer’s disease. Deficiency is rare, but it can lead to heart disease and other problems.
How Much Copper Per Day?
The recommended daily dose (RDA) is about 900 micrograms (mcg) per day for teens and adults. The maximum dose for adults 19 years and older is 10,000 mcg or 10 milligrams (mg) per day. Eating too much can be harmful. Both copper and copper poisoning are not uncommon in the United States (U.S).
Health Benefits of Copper
Copper is an essential nutrient for the body. Along with iron, it stimulates the body to produce red blood cells. It helps keep bones healthy, blood vessels, nerves, and body functions, and it helps to put on weight. Adequate copper in the diet can help prevent heart disease and osteoporosis, too.
Heart health
Low copper levels are linked to high cholesterol and high blood pressure. One team of researchers suggested that some patients with heart failure may benefit from copper supplements.
Animal studies have linked low levels of copper to CVD, but it remains unclear whether the deficiency will have a similar effect on humans.
Immune function
Too little copper can lead to neutropenia. This is a deficiency of white blood cells, or neutrophils, that fight infection. A person with a low level of neutrophils is more likely to get an infection.
Osteoporosis
Severe copper deficiency is associated with high bone mineral density and a high risk of orthopedic treatment. More research is needed on how a copper deficiency can affect bone health, and how the addition of copper can help prevent and treat osteoporosis
Collagen production
Copper plays an important role in maintaining collagen and elastin, which are essential components of our body. Scientists speculate that copper may have antioxidant properties, and that, along with other antioxidants, a healthy diet may help prevent skin aging.
Without enough copper, the body cannot cover the damaged loose tissue or collagen that causes a bone spasm. This can lead to a variety of problems, including joint dysfunction, as body tissues begin to deteriorate.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Animal studies have shown that copper can help prevent or delay arthritis, and people wear copper rings for this purpose. However, no human studies have confirmed this.
Antioxidant action
Copper may also have antioxidant activity. It can help reduce the production of free radicals. Free radicals can damage cells and DNA, leading to cancer and other diseases.
FAQ
How much copper do you need a day?
It's recommended that adults get 900 mcg of copper per day. However, if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, you should get slightly more — 1 mg or 1.3 mg per day, respectively.
How much copper per day is safe?
When taken by mouth: Copper is LIKELY SAFE when taken by mouth in amounts no greater than 10 mg daily. Copper is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when taken by mouth in large amounts. Adults should avoid using more than 10 mg of copper per day. Kidney failure and death can occur with as little as 1 gram of copper sulfate.
Does the human body need copper?
Copper is an essential nutrient for the body. Together with iron, it enables the body to form red blood cells. It helps maintain healthy bones, blood vessels, nerves, and immune function, and it contributes to iron absorption. Sufficient copper in the diet may help prevent cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis, too.
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