Copper is an essential nutrient that our bodies need for preventing iron deficiency anemia.  Without the proper amount of copper in our system our bodies would not be able to absorb enough iron from the intestinal tract or release iron that is stored in the liver.  Copper is essential to the formation of red blood cells, bone and hemoglobin as well as the production of melanin which is what determines your skin and hair color.  It is also essential in the production of myelin, the substance that serves as insulation to the nerve cells.  Copper is essential for a healthy immune system because it helps fight infection and is instrumental in the repair of injured tissues.  Copper is an essential ingredient to many enzymes in our bodies which are vital to every staying alive.

Copper can be found in many foods that we eat including: raw oysters, shell fish, soy flour, almonds, wheat germ, avocados, nuts, beets and garlic.  We also receive trace amounts of copper from copper cookware and copper plumbing.

Studies have shown that copper deficiencies in the body can elevate bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and lower levels of good cholesterol (HDL).  This may also lead to high blood pressure.  Other signs of copper deficiency in the body are: anemia, osteoporosis, skin sores, baldness, diarrhea, skeletal deformities, and loss of skin color, nerve degeneration and impaired respiratory function.  On the other hand having too much copper in your system is not such a good thing either.  Some side effects of copper toxicity are nausea, vomiting, irritability, depression, low blood pressure, jaundice, diarrhea, nervousness and muscle and joint pain. When large amounts of copper are ingested it can lower the levels of zinc and vitamin C in your body.  Conversely, when large amounts of vitamin C and zinc are consumed, it can lower the amount of copper in your system.

A maximum daily intake of 10 mg of copper per day has been recommended to maintain healthy levels.

(To Be Continued)