Your body needs copper and zinc for a variety of functions, including immune system health, wound healing and the production of red blood cells. It is therefore important to make sure you get adequate amounts of both in your diet. However, the relationship between zinc and copper is strong, and taking too much of either may lead to a deficiency in the other. Talk to your doctor about proper doses of both minerals.
Dangers of Too Much Copper and Zinc
Both copper and zinc carry risks if you ingest high doses. Not only can too much copper in your system lead to a zinc deficiency, but it may also cause stomach upset, headaches, fatigue and dizziness. Though rare, a copper toxicity may lead to heart problems, jaundice and even death. Similarly, taking too much zinc may cause a copper deficiency, and it may also lead to stomach upset, dizziness, drowsiness, increased sweating and hallucinations. High doses of zinc may also impair your immune function as well as raise your cholesterol.
Dangers of Copper and Zinc Deficiencies
Most people get the recommended amount of copper through food. But if you ingest too much zinc and develop a copper deficiency, you may experience such signs and symptoms as anemia, bone fractures, a low body temperate, an irregular pulse, loss of skin pigment and a low white blood cell count. It is not uncommon for someone to have a mild zinc deficiency, but ingesting too much copper can make this worse. Signs and symptoms of low zinc levels include a loss of appetite, lack of taste, lack of smell, poor wound healing, skin sores, hair loss and frequent infections.
Recommendations and Supplements
Due to the strong relationship between zinc and copper, it is important to get the right amount of each to avoid deficiencies. The recommended dietary allowance, or RDA, for copper is 900 mcg, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The RDA for zinc is 11 mg for men and 8 mg for women. You can meet these needs by consuming a variety of foods. However, if your doctor suggests you take a copper supplement, she will most likely have you take a zinc supplement as well to prevent an imbalance. The same will typically be true for copper if you are prescribed zinc supplements.
Additional Considerations
Never take new supplements without first discussing them with your healthcare provider, particularly if you want to consume copper or zinc. If you develop any signs of a copper or zinc toxicity or deficiency, seek medical attention and tell the physician about the signs and symptoms you are experiencing. He can determine the causes of your condition as well as discuss the amounts of supplements you should be taking to help prevent this problem from recurring.
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