Copper

Copper is an essential mineral found in many enzymes. It is necessary for hemoglobin synthesis, redox processes, connective tissue formation, melanin synthesis, and nervous system function.

Sources of Copper:

Copper is present in various foods, including nuts, chocolate, mushrooms, grains, some seafood, liver, and dried fruits. Small amounts may also enter drinking water from copper pipes and containers.

After absorption in the intestines, copper binds to proteins, transforming into a non-toxic form and is transported to the liver. It is stored in the liver and, when needed, is distributed throughout the body via ceruloplasmin, a transport protein. In circulation, 95% of copper is bound to ceruloplasmin, while the remaining 5% is associated with albumin. A small amount of copper exists in free form in the blood. When copper levels are elevated, excess copper is excreted through bile and urine. Normally, urine contains only trace amounts of copper.

Although copper deficiency or excess is rare, both conditions can have serious health consequences.