Copper

The first evidence for the essential nature of copper in human nutrition was discovered in 1928. A lack of it led to anemia in all subjects tested. Today, copper deficiency is relatively uncommon.

Deficiency of copper may occur as a result of a processed food diet. Additionally, certain groups are at an exceptionally high risk for copper deficiency. These groups include:

those undergoing high dose zinc therapy

gastrectomy patients

those taking multiple medications

individuals consuming a high sugar diet

cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy

patients with chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis and hepatitis

individuals with celiac sprue

individuals who have had a portion of their intestines or stomach removed

Copper is an essential component of numerous human enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD). Additionally, it works together with iron in the building of red blood cells. thus, copper is an important anti anemia red blood cells. thus, copper is an important anti-anemia factor. It is also involved in the maintenance of the health of arterial tissues, and if copper deficiency becomes extreme, degeneration of the arteries usually results.

For individuals with chronic arthritis, the “copper bracelet” may not be entirely an old wives” tale. this is because joint degeneration has been associated with trace mineral deficiencies, copper being one of them.

Perhaps the most common cause of extreme copper deficiency is the consumption of excessive amounts of refined sugar. In addition to being deficient in copper, sugar causes the loss of copper into the stool and urine. Another common cause of extreme copper deficiency is mega dose zinc therapy. This is because zinc impedes the absorption of copper. Usually, dosages of 90 mg or more per day are required to artificially induce copper deficit. anyone consuming large amounts of zinc should supplement their diet with copper. Top food sources of copper include rice bran, liver, red meats, whole grains, and mushrooms.

Which of these apply to you?

1. heart rhythm disturbances

2. alopecia (patch hair loss)

3. skin rashes

4. diarrhea

5. fatigue

6. fragile or brittle bones

7. difficulty breathing

8. anemia

9. infertility

10. numbness or paresthesia

11. bitter taste in the mouth

12. poor wound healing

13. delayed healing of fractures or sprains

14. Are you a diabetic?

15. Do you have significant family history of diabetes?

16. Do you suffer from hardening of the arteries?

17. Do you consume sugar, particularly fructose, regularly?

18. Do you have a high cholesterol level?

19. Do you have osteoarthritis?

20. Do you take 75 mg or more of zinc daily?

21. Do you perspire heavily?

22. Do you eat primarily processed foods?

Your Score ______

1 to 5 points Mild copper deficiency: Take a multiple vitamin tablet containing copper and increase the consumption of foods rich in copper. Avoid all sources of refined sugar.

6 to 11 points Moderated copper deficiency: Take 4 mg of copper daily. Include large helpings of copper rich foods in the diet. Avoid refined sugars and reduce consumption of alcohol.

12 and above Severe copper deficiency: Take 2 mg of copper twice daily. Eat copper rich foods on a daily basis; rice bran or polishings, liver, and Soya products, are excellent sources. Curtail the consumption of refined sugars, particularly fructose, which is specific for inducing copper deficiency.