Copper Supplement:
Copper Supplements for Your Health
Copper is a trace element mineral that accomplishes a wide variety of purposes within the body, both on its own and as a cofactor -- meaning it is an essential part of chemical processes that involve other vitamins, minerals, nutrients or other substances. Although the body requires a comparatively miniscule amount of copper per day, even that little bit is essential to overall health and performance.
Copper was recognized in the 1870's as a basic part of our blood. This mineral is called a trace element because it is a metal. It is the third greatest metal present in our bodies, in terms of concentration. Copper is present throughout the body, and it serves multiple purposes that influence physical and mental health and function. Additionally, it acts as a cofactor, or partner, in many enzymes and processes, affecting a variety of bodily functions and systems.
Copper works with Vitamin C in the production of elastin and collagen, which are connective tissues that literally hold the body together. In addition to this, copper also has a role in the first step of wound healing, which is blood clotting. It also partners with iron in the making of red blood cells, which serve the essential purpose of bringing oxygen throughout the body, as well as helping the body to absorb and use iron. It helps to make bones, working with calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, Vitamin D and Vitamin C.
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Melanin, the substance that gives skin and hair their color, requires copper for its production. Copper has a role in the manufacture of hormones that come from the thyroid, and thus is important to the body's rate of metabolism, which in turn affects body weight.
Copper also has a role in the nervous system. It is necessary in the creation of the myelin sheath -- this protects nerves and enhances their communication. The connective tissues and nerves in the brain need copper for both structure and function. Copper also serves as a cofactor in the production of the body's important antioxidant enzymes, contributing significantly to the control of damaging free radicals.
Copper enjoys a role in each of the body's major systems and processes. As a trace element, the body only requires a tiny bit of copper daily. Adults should have just 1.5mg to 3mg per day. It is critical to note that too much copper can be toxic to the body. The body's systems are basic and regulated by chemical reactions, and the chemicals in the body are delicately balanced.
Nutritional supplements can offer a safe and reliable means of making sure the body receives all the nutrients it needs daily. However, when using supplements, it is important to be aware of the upper levels of tolerance, and to make sure that your dietary supplement dosages fall within that range.
Natural sources for copper are avocados, fish, legumes, lentils, liver, lobster, nuts, oats, oysters, peanuts, raisins, salmon, shell fish, soybeans, and spinach.
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