Copper - Health Benefits

Introduction

This section outlines the biological function and therapeutic properties of Copper.

Copper deficiency is known as Hypocupremia.

Cardiovascular System

 Iron Deficiency Anemia may occur as a result of Copper deficiency (this occurs as a result of Copper’s role in the absorption of Iron and Copper’s role in the production of Hemoglobin).  ^[1]

 Aneurysm may occur as a result of Copper deficiency.  ^[2]

 Copper deficiency may cause Atherosclerosis.  ^[3]

 Copper may help to prevent abnormal Blood Clotting.  ^[4]

 Copper deficiency may cause Congestive Heart Failure.  ^[5]

 Copper deficiency may cause High Blood Pressure.  ^[6]

 Copper is involved in the production of Red Blood Cells (via its involvement in the production of Hemoglobin).  ^[7]

 Copper (in correct dosages) may enhance the health of the Heart: 

 Optimal Copper levels may help to prevent damage to the Cardiac Muscle (i.e. the Muscle of the Heart).  ^[8]

Cells

 Impaired Growth may occur as a result of Copper deficiency. 

Digestive System

 Many Celiac Disease patients are found to be deficient in Copper (indicating that supplemental Copper may benefit Celiac Disease patients).  ^[9]

 Infant Diarrhea may occur as a result of Copper deficiency. 

Eyes/Vision

 Optimal Copper levels may help to prevent Cataracts. 

Hair

 Copper may sometimes be helpful for delaying the onset of Hair - Gray. ^[10]

 Copper is involved biochemically in Hair Color (via Tyrosine and Tyrosinase).

 Copper may concentrate in and enhance the health/function of Hair Follicles.  ^[11]

 Copper may facilitate Hair Growth and may therefore be involved in the prevention (and possibly treatment) of Hair Loss (e.g. Hair Loss may occur as a result of Copper deficiency, although caution in this area is warranted as excessive Copper may also cause Hair Loss):  ^[12]

 Copper may stimulate the synthesis of the constituents of the extracellular matrix (e.g. Collagen and other Glycoproteins) in the Fibroblasts of the Dermal Papilla of the Scalp’s Hair Follicles during the anagen phase of Hair Growth.

Immune System

 Increased susceptibility to Bacterial & Viral Diseases (infections) may occur as a result of Copper deficiency: ^[13]