Copper- Health Benefits, Sources and Dosage Required

Copper is a crucial trace mineral and is present in every single cell of the body. Copper, along with proteins, amino acids and fatty acids are crucial for the normal metabolic processes. Copper is the third most important mineral found in the human body. It helps with maintaining a healthy metabolism which is crucial for the growth and development of the body. In the absence of copper, there will be no cellular respiration, peptide formation, neurotransmitter biosynthesis, pigment formation and connective tissue strength. Copper is crucial for various enzymes and helps with the constant development of the central nervous system.

Health benefits of copper

->> It is antimicrobial in nature

->> It helps with the production of collagen

->> It helps with the absorption of iron

->> It is required for the energy regeneration

->> An optimum level of copper helps with the prevention of bone-related diseases such as osteoporosis.

->> It supports growth, neurodevelopment and the cognitive functions.

->> An insufficient copper amount of copper may lead to neutropenia- the deficiency of white blood cells. An

->> optimum level of copper helps in maintaining healthy immune functions.

->> It helps in maintaining the quality of your hair, eyes and connective tissues.

->> It is also essential for the formation of red blood cells.

->> Copper is a potent antioxidant which acts as an anti-aging agent.

->> Copper helps with the proper functioning of thyroid gland.

->> It assists the body in maintaining an optimum level of good cholesterol.

The anti-inflammatory properties of copper help with strengthening the muscular system, thus reducing the symptoms of arthritis.

A common source of copper

Copper is one of those few minerals which cannot be synthesized by the human body. It cannot be synthesized by the human on its own and can be obtained from dietary sources only. Copper can easily be obtained from a number of food items such as meat, seafood, whole grains, beans, soy-flour, avocado, wheat bran, barley, almonds, garlic, nuts, mushroom, blackstrap molasses, lentils, oats, and beets. Crab meat and oysters contain the highest amount of copper. Another great way to fulfill your daily quota of copper is by drinking copper infused water that has been stored in a copper water bottle.

Lack of copper in the body may result in various health conditions such as:

->> Fatigue

->> Arthritis

->> Osteoporosis

->> Paleness

->> Low body temperature

->> Anemia

->> Weaker immunity

->> Joint inflammation

->> Thinning of hair or baldness

->> Brittle bones

->> Sores

->> Bruising

->> Skin pigmentation

->> Sudden weight loss

->> Skin inflammation

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