Human body needs copper for normal health and growth, helps the body absorb iron, nerve function, growth of the bones and in enhancing the right environment for the body to absorb sugars. The supplements are necessary for people who are unable to get enough copper in their normal diet. Copper supplements are taken by mouth, and in some cases, through injection.
Copper is a mineral found in many foods, mainly in the nuts, organ meats, seafood, wheat bran cereals, seeds, cocoa products and grain products. Human body stores the copper in muscles and bones. The amount of cooper in the blood is regulated by the liver.
Copper is used in managing the copper deficiency in the human body. Copper deficiency is common with people with intestinal bypass surgery and malnourished children. Cooper in the human body is used in treating osteoarthritis, healing of the wounds and in treating osteoporosis or brittle bones. Cooper is also necessary for athletes in enhancing their performances.
Inadequate copper may result in weak bones osteoporosis or weak bones and anemia.
The need for copper may vary with: Burns Intestine disease Diarrhea Pancreas disease Kidney disease Stress Stomach issues
Copper supplements are best taken with manganese, zinc and calcium. Copper is safe if taken by mouth for small quantities, not more than 10 mg in a day, but not safe for large amounts.
Taking large quantities of copper may result in blood diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach, fever, low blood pressure, heart problems and anemia.
Special warnings and precautions is taken for women breast feeding and pregnant and they should not take more than 8 - 10 mg in a day. Children should not consume more than 1 mg in a day, for children aged 1 – 3 years, 3 mg for children aged 4 – 8 years, 5 mg for children aged 9 – 13 years and 8 mg for adolescents. Copper can be dangerous for people with certain hereditary conditions such as childhood cirrhosis and idiopathic copper toxicosis.
Copper supplements are also necessary for persons with hemodialysis for kidney diseases.
RDA Recommended Dietary Allowance for copper is
The UL for