Copper

Copper is described as essential for collagen synthesis. Copper is an essential mineral that supports health only when properly managed. Copper helps make collagen strong. Ocean foods are described as valuable sources of trace minerals that may be less abundant in land-based foods. Shellfish contains both copper and zinc, so its zinc content may partially offset its copper contribution. Tissue copper deposits are more meaningful than blood levels because serum values can look normal while copper accumulates in organs and the nervous system. High zinc intake suppresses copper absorption. Copper is essential for iron absorption and utilization; iron-deficiency anemia will not resolve with iron supplementation if copper is inadequate. Copper-loaded IUDs can worsen the same copper imbalance discussed for oral contraceptive history and pregnancy. Copper is involved in detoxifying fluoride, and high fluoride exposure reduces the amount of copper available in the body. Copper-dependent enzymes protect existing collagen from breakdown. Copper is the rate-limiting nutrient for collagen construction and maintenance. Copper-dependent enzymes synthesize new collagen by enabling proteins to fo…