Copper

Recommended Dietary Intakes 
Adults – 1.5 mg to 3 mg 

This Vitamin Is Essential For

• formation of bone, haemoglobin and red blood cells.
• helps in the absorption and use of iron.
• assists in the regulation of blood pressure and heart rate.
• strengthening blood vessels, bones, tendons, and nerves.
• promoting fertility.
• skin and hair pigmentation.
• nervous system.
• formation of collagen.

Some say that copper has an antioxidant affect on the system.

Sources

Seafood and organ meats are the richest sources, blackstrap molasses, nuts, seeds, green vegetables, black pepper, cocoa, and water passed through copper pipes also contain significant quantities. The levels of copper are directly related to the levels of vitamin C and zinc in the body. 

Deficiencies Can Cause

• Brittle, discoloured hair;
• skeletal defects;
• anaemia;
• high blood pressure;
• heart arrhythmia’s; and
• infertility.

A deficiency in this mineral is very rare. 

Excess copper can cause vomiting, nausea, muscle pain, and stomach aches.