The Role of Copper in the Body
Copper plays numerous vital roles in the human body. It facilitates the oxidation of glucose to release energy, aids in the absorption of iron, assists the thyroid gland in hormone regulation, and transports oxygen in the bloodstream to supply tissues and organs. Additionally, it supports nerve and brain function, contributes to the synthesis of amino acids like tyrosine, and is essential for the production of red blood cells. Copper also helps with pigment formation, oxygenation of the brain, enzyme activities, and hormone synthesis, including adrenaline. It acts as a brain stimulant, counteracts manganese ions, and correlates with estrogen levels.
Furthermore, it possesses natural antimicrobial properties and enhances the function of neurotransmitters like epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
Low Levels
Low levels of copper can lead to cellular oxygen deprivation and manifest as symptoms such as reduced HDL cholesterol, skin issues, anemia, edema, auditory hallucinations, depression, and diminished enkephalin production.
Causes of low copper levels include diets high in white flour, alkaline gut environments inhibiting absorption, deficiencies from total parenteral nutrition, and interference from excess zinc, iron, calcium, and manganese.
While medical conditions related to copper deficiency are rare, they are more common in premature infants, exhibiting symptoms like abnormal hair texture, cognitive impairment, and enzyme synthesis deficits.
High Levels
Conversely, excessive copper levels can result in headaches, hypoglycemia, tachycardia, nausea, organ damage, anemia, hair loss, and interference with zinc absorption, leading to protein digestion issues.
High copper individuals often prefer carbohydrate-rich diets and may experience hyperactivity, learning disorders, and psychiatric symptoms resembling autism, depression, hallucinations, insomnia, and paranoia.
Various factors contribute to high copper levels, including estrogen exposure from hormone-treated meat consumption, contraceptive use, prescription medications containing copper, smoking, and elevated copper levels in drinking water. Additionally, deficiencies in zinc and manganese can exacerbate copper accumulation, while copper itself lowers histamine levels.
Recommended Products for Copper Regulation
- Always Zypan! (unless ulcers are present)
- Zinc Complex
- Trace Minerals – B12
- Neuroplex
- Veterinary Line is big with the copper too!
Copper sure does a lot for us, doesn’t it? But remember, too much or too little can throw things off balance. Understanding what your body needs is key to keeping you feeling your best. Think you might have a copper imbalance? No worries, I’m here to help! Let’s chat – schedule a session with me today. We can talk about what you’re experiencing and explore ways to get you back on track.
Share this post:
Medical Disclaimer: What I’ve shared with you here is not intended to be a substitute for a medical diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Always seek the advice of your physician with any questions you may have regarding your own medical conditions.
