Copper

DESCRIPTION/FUNCTION

• Copper is classified as a trace mineral. It facilitates the function of many enzymes and iron (ceruloplasmin); may be an integral part of RNA and DNA molecules; role in development of connective tissue and blood vessels (lysyl oxidase), and formation of phospholipids and melanin. Copper is also a component of one form of superoxide dismutase (SOD), an enzyme that has antioxidant properties (converts superoxide to hydrogen peroxide).

DRI (RDA or AI for Adults)

• Adults: 0.9 mg.
• Pregnancy: 1.0 mg.
• Lactation: 1.3 mg.

MAJOR SOURCES

• Veal liver, beef liver, oysters, cashews, Brazil nuts, filberts, almonds, soynuts, walnuts, blackstrap molasses, pistachios, peanuts, beef heart, pecans, clams, crab, unsweetened chocolate, sunflower seeds.
• Water from copper plumbing.

MAINTENANCE/THERAPEUTIC RANGE

• 1 mg to 3 mg.

POSSIBLE THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS

• Immune function
• Osteoarthritis

COMMENTS

• High doses of vitamin C and zinc can reduce copper absorption. Homes with copper plumbing may have tap water with too much copper. Run the water for a minute or two to clear out long-standing water in the copper pipes.

CAUTIONS

• Do not take if you have Wilson's disease, a copper storage disorder, or kidney or liver failure.