Copper is a trace mineral that your body needs to work properly. Even though you only need a small amount of it, it is crucial for many important functions. It helps your body form collagen, which is essential for healthy skin and connective tissues. It also aids in absorbing iron from your food and producing energy. Additionally, it helps regulate various enzymatic reactions in the body. Copper is the third most common mineral in the body. It is found in high concentrations in the heart, liver, brain, kidneys, and muscles. Since your body cannot make it on its own, you must get it from your diet or supplements. Eating foods rich in copper or taking supplements, especially copper amino acid chelate, can help ensure you have enough of this important mineral for your body to stay healthy and function well.
The Benefits of Copper
Helps You Avoid Ulcers
Anti-Anemia
Copper deficiency is linked to a higher risk of anemia, a condition where there are not enough red blood cells (RBCs) in the body. Anemia often leads to symptoms like fatigue and weakness because RBCs are crucial for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Research has shown that adding copper supplements to the diet of people with anemia can help. In one study, patients with anemia who took it via supplements saw their RBC levels return to normal. This improvement was shown by an increase in their hemoglobin count, a key indicator of red blood cell health. By correcting the deficiency, the body can produce more healthy RBCs and improve overall blood health. Therefore, ensuring you get enough of this mineral can be an effective way to address anemia and maintain healthy red blood cell levels.
Nervous System Benefits
Lowers Risk for Cardiovascular Diseases
Strong evidence shows a link between getting enough dietary copper and heart diseases. A deficiency can cause serious medical problems like high blood pressure, systemic inflammation, poor blood clotting, and narrowed arteries. These conditions are major risk factors for heart disease. When the body doesn’t get enough, it can lead to hypertension, which makes the heart work harder. Systemic inflammation can damage the heart and blood vessels. Impaired blood clotting can lead to dangerous blood clots or bleeding problems. Narrowed arteries restrict blood flow, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Getting enough copper in your diet helps prevent these issues and lowers the risk of heart disease. It is important for keeping the cardiovascular system healthy. Eating foods rich in copper or taking supplements can help maintain heart health and prevent cardiovascular diseases.
Alzheimer’s Prevention
Copper might play a role in preventing Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). AD is thought to be caused by the buildup of sticky plaques in the brain known as beta amyloid. Research has shown that copper can help reduce the accumulation of these plaques in animal studies. In one study, animals with Alzheimer’s had less beta amyloid buildup when given copper. Another important finding is that people with Alzheimer’s often have much lower levels of copper compared to healthy individuals. This difference suggests that having enough of this mineral might help protect against the development of AD. It helps maintain brain health, and its deficiency could be linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s. Therefore, ensuring you have adequate levels might be beneficial for lowering the risk of this disease. It’s crucial to include enough copper in your diet or through supplements to support overall brain function.
Bone and Skeletal Strength
Copper deficiency can make bones brittle and weak, leading to osteoporosis and fractures. This is especially common in postmenopausal women. When women lose bone density after menopause, they become more prone to fractures and reduced strength. Studies have shown that taking copper along with other minerals can help. Older women who took it with zinc, manganese, and calcium supplements had less bone loss. These minerals work together to keep bones strong and healthy. Copper helps the body use iron and maintain healthy bones. Zinc supports the immune system and helps with cell growth. Manganese is important for bone formation, and calcium is crucial for strong bones. By combining these minerals, women can reduce the risk of brittle bones and fractures. It’s important to maintain a balanced diet and consider supplements if needed to ensure you get enough of these essential minerals. This can help keep bones healthy and strong.
Make Your Immune System Stronger
Patients with copper deficiency who had extensive bowel surgery saw an increase in white blood cell (WBC) count after taking supplements. White blood cells are important for fighting infections and keeping the immune system strong. When the body doesn’t have enough, it can lead to a low WBC count, which makes it harder to fight off illnesses. Supplements help boost WBC levels, improving the body’s ability to defend against infections. This is especially important for patients who have had bowel surgery since their bodies might struggle to absorb enough nutrients, including copper. By taking supplements, these patients can improve their immune health and reduce the risk of infections. Keeping WBC count at a healthy level is crucial for overall well-being, especially for those recovering from surgery or dealing with chronic health issues. Copper plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy immune system.
Why Copper Amino Acid Chelate is Better
Copper amino acid chelate is a superior form of supplement because it is better absorbed and utilized by the body. This form combines copper with amino acids, making it easier for the body to absorb in the digestive tract. Better absorption means that more of it gets into the bloodstream and reaches the cells. Copper amino acid chelate is also gentler on the stomach than to other forms, reducing the risk of digestive discomfort. This form helps ensure that the body gets enough copper to support vital functions, such as producing red blood cells, maintaining healthy bones, and supporting the immune system. It is especially beneficial for people with digestive issues or those who have had bowel surgery, as their bodies might struggle to absorb nutrients effectively. By choosing copper amino acid chelate, you can improve your overall health and ensure that your body gets what it needs.
Conclusion
Copper is a vital trace mineral essential for numerous bodily functions, from forming collagen and aiding in iron absorption to producing energy and regulating enzymatic reactions. Its high concentration in the heart, liver, brain, kidneys, and muscles underscores its importance. Since the body cannot produce it, or any other mineral on its own, obtaining it through diet or supplements is crucial. It helps prevent ulcers when combined with NSAIDs, reduces anemia risk by boosting red blood cell production, and supports nerve health by protecting the myelin sheath. Additionally, it lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases, aids in preventing Alzheimer’s by reducing beta-amyloid plaques, and strengthens bones to prevent osteoporosis. Copper amino acid chelate is a superior supplement form, ensuring better absorption and less digestive discomfort, making it especially beneficial for those with absorption issues. Ensuring adequate intake is essential for maintaining overall health and preventing various diseases.
