01
Why supplement?
✓
Supports connective tissue and energy metabolism
Copper is a cofactor for many enzymes involved in energy and collagen-related reactions.
Mechanism: Established✓
Supports iron metabolism
Copper is involved in iron transport and red blood cell formation.
Nutrition consensus: EstablishedADVERTISEMENT
02
How to take it
With foodWith food
Best timeAnytime
Note that zinc supplements may affect copper status.
General wellnessAdults 900 mcg/day
Specific needsTreatment doses for deficiency must be set by a doctor from blood tests; the adult upper limit is 10,000 mcg/day.
How oftenSupplement only when diet is inadequate or there is a medical need.
03
What to watch
Cautions
People with liver disease, Wilson disease, or long-term high zinc intake should ask a doctor first.
Both copper deficiency and excess can cause blood and neurologic problems.
Common side effects
· Nausea
· Stomach discomfort
Rare but important
· Long-term excess can cause liver damage.
Long-term dependenceNot addictive; long-term excess carries a risk of accumulated toxicity.