Copper is a mineral housed mainly in the liver that's vital for iron absorption, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center or UMMC. Copper is involved in myelin production, the substance that encircles nerve fibers and hemoglobin, the principal iron component of red blood cells. Copper helps produce collagen, the protein fiber that helps helps keep skin firm; and melanin which is responsible for hair and skin color. Copper supplements are generally used to prevent or reverse copper deficiency and may help treat anemia and other health conditions. Consult your doctor before adding copper supplements to your regimen.
Available Forms
The ideal way to get an adequate amount of copper is through your diet, reports the UMMC. Copper-rich foods include liver, oysters, shellfish, whole grain breads and cereals dark green leafy vegetables and nuts. Copper is also available as an oral dietary supplement. Multivitamins that contain minerals typically include copper.The suggested dosage for for adults 19 years is 900 mcg. The maximum dosage should not exceed 10,000 mcg. Copper can be found in topical gels, and solutions. Copper may even be obtained by drinking water that travels through copper plumbing, notes the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center or UPMC.
Health Effects
Symptoms of copper deficiency may include anemia, the inadequate supply of healthy red blood cells, osteoporosis,which may lead to bone fractures and possible diabetes.
Copper supplements may reduce the risk and progression of arthritis. Some people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis apply copper solutions to their skin or wear copper bracelets in an effort to diminish pain and inflammation. A clinical study involving some 1,600 lung patients published in March 2007 in the "International Journal of Cancer" found that dietary zinc and copper intakes are linked to reduced risk of lung cancer. The research was headed by S. Mahabir of the Department of Epidemiology, University of Texas, Houston.
Skin Wounds and Burns
Copper appears to encourage wound healing. A multivitamin that includes copper and other minerals may aid in the treatment of burns. A sizable amount of copper, zinc and selenium can vanish when skin is burned, which can prolong the healing process, notes the UMMC. Adding copper to wound dressings may lower the risk of infection, accelerate healing and encourage skin regeneration.
Precautions
Taking excessive amounts of copper can cause stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness and headaches dizziness, notes the UMMC. While rare, copper toxicity can lead to heart problems, coma and, in extreme cases, death.
Zinc may interfere with the absorption of copper. People taking zinc supplements for more than a couple of weeks should also take copper supplements.
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