Description
Copper SA
Copper is an essential mineral with a wide range of functions in the human body. It is found in body tissues and is crucial for angiogenesis as well as neurohormone homeostasis. It plays an important role in the functioning of the nervous system by helping to create the myelin sheath that surrounds nerve cells. It is a cofactor to many enzymes for example superoxide dismutase which is an antioxidant enzyme that breaks down harmful oxygen free radicals. They also help to regulate a variety of functions including energy production and neurotransmitter synthesis (1). Furthermore, copper helps our bodies to absorb iron, form connective tissues and regulate gene expression (2).
The highest concentrations of copper are found in the liver, brain, heart, and kidneys (3) and once consumed, it is mostly absorbed in the upper small intestine. Most copper is excreted in bile and urine and only small amounts are stored in the body (2). It can be found naturally in high protein foods such as organ meats, fish, and nuts, as well as whole grains and chocolate (1) and is also available as a dietary supplement.
In the UK, the recommended nutrient intake (RNI) for copper is 1.2mg/day for both men and women. While the levels vary depending on age, the British Nutrition Foundation suggestions can be found in table 1 (4).
Table 1. Recommended Nutrient Intakes for copper (4)
| Age |
Male |
Female |
Pregnancy |
Lactation |
| 0-3 months |
0.2mg/d |
0.2mg /d |
|
|
| 4-6 months |
0.3mg /d |
0.3mg/d |
|
|
| 7-9 months |
0.3mg/d |
0.3mg/d |
|
|
| 10-12 months |
0.3mg/d |
0.3mg/d |
|
|
| 1-3 years |
0.4mg/d |
0.4mg/d |
|
|
| 4-6 years |
0.6mg/d |
0.6mg/d |
|
|
| 7-10 years |
0.7mg/d |
0.7mg/d |
|
|
| 11-14 years |
0.8mg/d |
0.8mg/d |
|
|
| 15-18 years |
1.0mg/d |
1.0mg/d |
|
|
| 19-50 years |
1.2mg/d |
1.2mg/d |
* |
+0.3mg/d |
| 50+ years |
1.2mg/d |
1.2mg/d |
|
|
*The RNI during pregnancy may vary, please consult your healthcare practitioner
Copper deficiency can lead to anaemia, hypopigmentation, osteoporosis, abnormal lipid metabolism and impaired growth. Symptoms of copper deficiency include fatigue, pale skin, brittle hair and nails, and an increased risk of infection (2). Those with coeliac disease or Crohn’s disease are more at risk of copper deficiency due to malabsorption. Likewise, people with Menkes disease may have severe copper deficiency as it interferes with copper absorption (1). Zinc can also interfere with copper absorption and so people taking high dose zinc supplements should monitor copper levels.
If pregnant or breast-feeding, please consult your health care practitioner before using this product.
Epigenetics Copper SA is produced in a convenient, vegan friendly capsule. Recommended daily dose is 1 serving per day taken with a meal, or as directed by a healthcare practitioner. This product is not intended to be used as an alternative to a varied diet.
Ingredients
| Ingredient |
Amount per serving |
ECRDA* |
%DV* |
| Copper (from Copper bisglycinate) |
2 mg |
200%* |
222%* |
| Succinic acid |
100 µg |
† |
† |
* Percent Daily Reference Intakes (RI) are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
† Percent Daily Reference Intakes (RI) not established.
INGREDIENTS: Microcrystalline cellulose, Vegetable capsule (Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), Copper bisglycinate, Succinic acid.
Suitable for vegans
Read More
Copper is an essential trace mineral that plays an important role in the body. It is involved in many metabolic processes, including energy production, iron metabolism and the formation of connective tissue. Copper is essential for the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Copper helps to maintain healthy nerve cells and is involved in the production of neurotransmitters, which help regulate mood and behaviour. Copper helps to protect the body from oxidative damage, reducing free radicals that damage cells and DNA (5). Copper also helps the body absorb iron and the enzyme ceruloplasmin helps aid iron metabolism and carries over 95% of human plasma total copper levels (2).
Once consumed, copper is absorbed in the stomach and duodenum and is transported to the liver loosely bound to albumin where around 30% gets absorbed. It is then incorporated into ceruloplasmin, which transports copper to the tissues where it can be used for the synthesis of other copper-containing enzymes. Inadequate levels of copper can cause a lack of ceruloplasmin which can impair iron absorption and lead to anaemia. As a result, this can lead to decreased activity of various enzymes with relevant clinical sequelae (6). This includes Lysyl oxidase (weak walled blood vessels, intervertebral discs); Tyrosinase (depigmentation); Dopamine hydroxylase (neurological defects); Cytochrome C oxidase (decreased energy production); Superoxide dismutase (oxidative damage to tissues) (7).
Cardiovascular Disease
The role of copper in cardiovascular disease is becoming increasingly studied. Research has found that copper deficiency can lead to an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular deficits, such as high blood pressure, inflammation, anaemia and possibly arteriosclerosis (8). A study looking at cardiovascular disease from copper deficiency has shown that people with ischemic heart disease have decreased cardiac and leukocyte copper and decreased activities of some copper-dependant enzymes (9). Additionally, research has indicated that copper transport systems are closely linked with the physiological responses of cardiovascular cells, such as cell growth and cellular death (10). This further suggests that copper depletion could have a significant effect on cardiovascular disease.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Copper deficiency has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease. One study found that a high requirement for copper may explain early onset of Alzheimer’s disease in Down’s syndrome (11). It has been hypothesised that copper deficiency could be a plausible cause of Alzheimer’s disease, due to the essential role copper ions play in proper brain functioning (11). Copper ions are involved in various neuronal biochemical processes that are disrupted in Alzheimer’s disease, such as neurotransmitter metabolism and energy production (1). Additionally, copper depletion of the brain has been linked to oxidative stress (5), which can lead to neuronal death and further contribute to the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Thus, copper deficiency may be a contributing factor to the development of Alzheimer’s disease, and it is important to ensure adequate levels of copper in the body.
Bone Loss
Copper plays an important role in bone formation and is a cofactor for lysyl oxidase which helps in the formation of healthy bones (12, 13). Likewise, copper aids in the development and synthesis of collagen, the main structural protein in bone tissue. Copper deficiency has been linked to several adverse health effects, including a decrease in bone mineral density and increased risk of osteoporosis (14). A study looking at copper supplementation and bone mineral density in middle aged women found that taking 3mg of copper supplements daily for two years slowed down the rate of bone mineral density loss that typically occurs during menopause (15). Furthermore, superoxide dismutase is a copper and zinc-containing antioxidant enzyme that can inhibit bone resorption. It works by neutralising superoxide radicals which are produced by the osteoclasts, the cells responsible for breaking down bones. This process is essential for preserving the structure and integrity of bones (14). It is therefore vital to have sufficient copper levels to prevent bone loss, impaired bone formation and reduce the risk of bone related diseases.
Copper deficiency is typically seen in those who have inadequate dietary intake or those who have difficulty absorbing copper from food. People who may be more at risk of copper deficiency include infants and children, as they are rapidly growing and require more copper than adults. Women are also at an increased risk due to their hormonal changes and increased need for copper during menstruation and pregnancy. Those with gastrointestinal disorders, such as coeliac disease and Crohn’s disease, may not be able to absorb enough copper from their diets. Additionally, vegans and vegetarians may be more likely to develop copper deficiencies due to their limited sources of dietary copper (1). Individuals with Menkes disease disrupts copper homeostasis and are more at risk of a deficiency. Likewise, those taking high dose zinc supplements may need to monitor their levels as it can interfere with copper absorption (2).
Extreme copper deficiency can have health implications and lead to hypopigmentation, hypercholesterolemia, connective tissue disorders, and impaired immune function (2). A mild deficiency may result in various symptoms such as fatigue, as copper is needed for energy production; a copper deficiency can compromise ATP production and result in weakness and fatigue. Anaemia, as it is essential for the formation of red blood cells. Other symptoms can include pale skin, weak and brittle bones, high white blood cell counts, problems with memory and learning, changes in hair colour or texture, impaired immune function, and vision loss (16).
Copper supplements may interact with certain medications. Penicillamine, used to treat Wilson disease and rheumatoid arthritis, may interact with copper, and reduce the amount of penicillamine that is absorbed by the body. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen may interact with copper and enhance their anti-inflammatory effects. Other medications such as Allopurinol, Cimetidine and Nifedipine may interact with copper and taking high dose zinc supplements for a long period of time might reduce copper absorption (5). It is therefore important to discuss any potential interactions with your healthcare practitioner before taking copper supplements.
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