Benefits of Copper

How Effective Is Copper?

Probably Effective

Treating copper deficiency: The first step in treating low copper levels depends on the root cause. For example, taking too much zinc can reduce how much copper your body absorbs. So, cutting back on zinc supplements can help. Doctors may also recommend copper supplements like copper gluconate, copper sulfate, or copper chloride. If the deficiency is severe and oral supplements aren’t working well, IV copper treatments might be used. According to the British Medical Journal, it can take between 4 to 12 weeks to restore normal levels.

Possibly Effective

Slowing bone loss from osteoporosis: Copper supplements—especially when taken with zinc, manganese, and calcium—may help reduce bone loss in older women.

Not Enough Evidence

Some benefits of copper still need more research. These include easing arthritis symptoms and helping wounds heal faster.

Daily Recommended Copper Intake

Here’s how much copper people should aim to get each day based on age and life stage:

To find out which foods are rich in copper, check out resources on where copper is found in the diet.

Is Copper Safe?

Safe Amounts

In general, copper is safe when taken in doses under 10 milligrams per day. But higher doses might not be. Taking even 1 gram of copper sulfate could lead to serious effects like kidney failure or even death. For pregnant or breastfeeding women:

• Ages 14–18 should not exceed 8 mg/day
• Ages 19+ should not exceed 10 mg/day

For kids, the safe upper limits are:

• 1 mg/day for ages 1–3
• 3 mg/day for ages 4–8
• 5 mg/day for ages 9–13

When to Be Careful

Too much copper can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, fever, stomach pain, low blood pressure, anemia, and heart issues. People with certain conditions should be extra cautious:

• Wilson's Disease: Copper supplements can make this genetic condition worse since copper builds up in the body.
• Other genetic disorders: Like childhood cirrhosis or idiopathic copper toxicosis—copper can make these worse too.

Understanding Copper Deficiency

Most copper in your body is bound to proteins. Free copper (unbound) can be toxic. Your body uses genes to control how copper binds to proteins and gets rid of any extra through bile. Copper deficiency can be genetic or caused by issues like poor absorption, especially after certain surgeries or in people with gut problems. Taking too much zinc is another common reason for copper deficiency.

One clear sign of copper deficiency is Menkes disease—a genetic condition where copper can’t get absorbed properly due to a gene mutation. This can lead to blood and nerve-related health problems.

Common Questions About Copper

Is There a Link Between Copper and Alzheimer’s?

Research is still mixed. One study from 2008 found that copper didn’t affect people with Alzheimer’s after 12 weeks. But a 2013 study suggested high copper levels could worsen the disease by preventing toxic proteins from leaving the brain. It might also interfere with the brain’s natural cleanup of amyloid beta, the protein linked to Alzheimer’s. Still, more studies are needed before we draw any solid conclusions.

Do People on Dialysis Need Copper?

People with kidney disease who are on dialysis might be at risk for copper deficiency. They may need copper supplements, but only under medical supervision.

Quick Overview of Copper

Copper is an essential mineral found in all body tissues—especially in the liver, brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles. It helps maintain healthy blood vessels, nerves, bones, and immune function. It also plays a role in absorbing iron, making energy, and forming collagen. Like iron, it’s involved in making red blood cells.

Copper also works as a helper for certain enzymes (called cuproenzymes), which support nerve function, connective tissue health, and neurotransmitter activity.