Copper Deficiency
Copper is an essential trace mineral. It is an antioxidant found in enzymes that deactivate free radicals (pieces of molecules that can link up to form compounds that damage body tissues) and make it possible for your body to use iron.
Copper also may play a role in slowing the aging process by decreasing the incidence of protein glycation, a reaction in which sugar molecules hook up with protein molecules in the blood stream twist the protein molecules out of shape, and make them unusable.
Protein glycation may result in bone loss, high cholesterol, cardiac abnormalities, and a slew of other unpleasantries.
Copper is also used for the metabolism of essential fatty acids.
In people with diabetes excess protein glycation may also be one factor involved in complications such as loss of vision.
In addition, copper
*Promote the growth of strong bone
*Protects the health of nerve tissue
*Prevents your hair from turning gray prematurely
A mild copper deficiency impairs the ability of white blood cells to fight infection. If the body does not get a sufficient amount of copper, hemoglobin production decreases and copper deficiency anemia can result.
Copper deficiency can produce various symptoms, including diarrhea, inefficient utilization of iron and protein and stunted growth.
In babies, the development of nerve, bone, and lung tissue can be impaired and the structure of these body parts may altered.
Since the body does not manufacture copper, it must be taken in through the diet.
Copper Deficiency