Il copper is a mineral present in our body, necessary for a good functioning; unlike other heavy metals such as arsenic, mercury and lead, which are very dangerous, having traces of copper in the body is essential.
Index
Why is copper necessary?
This mineral has a important role in a number of functions including:
- Red blood cell production;
- Reduction in heart rate and blood pressure;
- Absorption of iron;
- Prevention of prostate inflammation;
- Development and maintenance of bones, connective tissue, heart and brain;
- Activation of the immune system;
According to some recent research, he could be a useful treatment for a number of conditions including degenerative neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.
Copper and cancer
Research findings on the effects of copper on cancer are mixed; there are some studies that seem to indicate that copper can cause cancer, but a growing body of research indicates that copper compounds can act against some cancer cells.
Copper may be as effective as cisplatin, a commonly used chemotherapy drug, especially in the treatment of colon adenocarcinoma.
Food sources
The body needs to little copper and one might think of getting enough from a normal diet, but some studies show that since the 30s, copper is increasingly decreasing in diets.
We can find copper in the following foods:
- Frutti di mare
- Bovine entrails (liver)
- Potato
- peas
- beans
- Green vegetables
- Whole grains
- Sunflower seeds
- Peanut butter
- Dark chocolate
Copper deficiency
If you are in good health, you are unlikely to have low copper levels; however, symptoms of a copper deficiency can include:
- Tremors
- Tingling sensation
- Unstable gait
- Numbness
- Fatigue
- Loss of vision
Most people get enough copper from their power supply, but if you have one or more of the following conditions, supplementation may be required:
- Celiac Disease
- Crohn's disease
- Menkes syndrome: Rare genetic disease in which copper is not released properly into the bloodstream and accumulates in the small intestine and kidneys.
Before starting any supplementation of this mineral, it is always good to consult your doctor.
Risk factors for copper deficiency
The following situations can be a risk factor for developing copper deficiency:
- Gastric bypass surgery
- Premature babies
- Taking zinc supplements
Toxicity
Just as copper in small amounts is necessary for survival, taking it can be toxic.
The maximum tolerable intake level has been set at 10 milligrams per day; a larger amount can cause symptoms of toxicity, including:
- Threw up
- Diarrhea
- Jaundice
- Muscular pain
- Liver damage
- Renal and heart failure
Wilson's disease can lead to toxicity of this mineral; it is an inherited condition in which the liver is unable to get rid of excess copper, causing it to accumulate in the brain, liver and eyes.
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