Copper is an essential trace mineral that is a cofactor in cuproenzyme systems. After being absorbed, it is carried on transcuprein and albumin to the liver where it is incorporated into liver enzymes. These are secreted into the blood as ceruloplasmin, which is a copper-carrying protein that is an important blood-based antioxidant.


Plays an essential role in:

§          Collagen Synthesis - Is copper dependent and determines the integrity of bone, cartilage, skin, and tendons.

§          Involved in the production of elastin and collagen, which are the proteins that provide the structural elasticity to tissues in the lungs, blood vessels, and skin.

§          Component of Enzymes -
a) copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD) which is one of the body’s most important antioxidant enzymes.
b) dopamine beta-hydroxylase, which oxidizes ascorbic acid and synthesizes norepinephrine.

§          Stimulates the absorption of iron.

§          Required for the synthesis and function of hemoglobin, and, therefore, it plays a central role in the transport of oxygen throughout the body.

Copper deficiency

The symptoms of copper deficiency include: loss of color in the hair and skin (due to decreased synthesis of melanin), anemia, fatigue, kinky hair, low body temperature, breakdown of connective tissue, various cardiovascular problems, nervous system disorders, and reduced resistance to infection.

Optimal Copper intake

National Academy of Science recommends a range of 2-3 mg per day

Click here for Copper RDA  table

Copper Forms
copper gluconate, amino acid chelates, glycinate, lysinate, citrate, sulfate, and sebacate