What does copper do for me? Why do I need copper?
This is Dr. Jim for Be Healthy! Be Happy! Today I’m talking about the nutritional benefits of copper.
Copper works to ensure the regulation of energy production, and nervous system function. In addition, studies show copper has important anti-oxidant activities, which is important for cell membrane integrity. Copper is also essential to immune system performance.
The recommended dietary allowance of copper is 900 µg per day in both adult men and women.
Foods rich in copper include lentils, crab, salmon, almonds, cashews and hazelnuts.
Copper can also be taken as a dietary supplement and most multivitamin and mineral formulations contain sufficient quantities to ensure adequate daily intake.
Copper taken as a supplement is generally safe if the upper intake is limited to no more than 10,000 µg daily in adults – copper toxicity is rare, but as noted above, the recommended nutritional intake is 900 µg daily.
So when it comes to copper eat crab, salmon and lentils, don’t leave out the walnuts and ensure adequate intake daily by consuming a quality multivitamin and mineral supplement – all of this for high-performance immunity and effective anti-oxidant function.
This is Dr. Jim for Be Healthy! Be Happy! thanks for listening and stay tuned for our next segment as we continue to power your path to happiness!
Reference: The Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, 2015. Online [available at]: http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic Accessed May 25, 2015.