Buyer

Buying copper: forms, sources and dosage

Copper is an essential trace element that the body needs in small amounts. Copper contributes to the maintenance of normal connective tissues, to normal pigmentation of the hair and skin, to normal iron transport in the body, to the normal function of the immune system and the nervous system, to normal energy-yielding metabolism and to the protection of cells from oxidative damage. In our range you will find copper in forms such as copper gluconate and copper bisglycinate, and in mineral complexes.

What is copper and what does it do?

Copper is an essential trace element that the body cannot produce itself and that must be obtained through food or supplementation. According to the permitted health claims, copper contributes to the maintenance of normal connective tissues, normal pigmentation of the hair and skin, normal iron transport in the body, the normal function of the immune system and the nervous system, normal energy-yielding metabolism and the protection of cells from oxidative damage. The label of each product states how much copper is provided per serving, expressed in milligrams.

Copper and its interaction with iron

Copper and iron work closely together in the body. Copper contributes to normal iron transport in the body, where it plays a role in making iron available and moving it. For this reason, the two minerals are sometimes viewed together. In addition, copper contributes to the normal function of the immune system and to the protection of cells from oxidative damage, functions that it shares with several other trace elements. In mineral complexes, copper is therefore often combined with other nutrients.

Copper in combination products

Copper contributes to normal pigmentation of the hair and skin and to the maintenance of normal connective tissues. Copper is also found in combination products with other minerals and vitamins. In our range you will therefore find copper both as a standalone supplement and in broader complexes.

What contains copper?

Copper occurs naturally in various foods. Good sources are organ meats (such as liver), shellfish, nuts and seeds, legumes, whole grains and dark chocolate (cocoa). With a varied diet, most people get enough copper. For those who want to specifically supplement their intake, or who use a mineral complex, a copper supplement can be an addition. In this regard, take into account the balance between copper and zinc (see below).

What forms of copper are there?

Copper comes in various forms in supplements. Organically bound forms such as copper gluconate and copper bisglycinate (copper bound to the amino acid glycine) are widely used. In addition, you will find copper in broader mineral and vitamin complexes. The dosages are generally low, often around 1 to 2 milligrams per serving, because the body only needs a small amount of copper. When comparing, it is useful to pay attention to the amount of elemental copper per serving and to the form used.

How much copper per day and the copper-zinc balance

The recommended daily intake of copper for adults is around 0.9 to 1.3 milligrams. Many supplements provide an amount around or slightly above this level, for example 2 milligrams per serving. An important point of attention is the balance between copper and zinc: a prolonged high intake of zinc can disrupt the absorption of copper, and vice versa. Therefore, do not take copper in high doses without reason and take into account your total intake from food and other supplements. Stick to the recommended dosage on the packaging and if in doubt or if taking medication, ask a doctor for advice.

Buying copper: what to look for?

When choosing a copper supplement, a few points are important. Look at the amount of elemental copper per serving in milligrams and at the form used, such as copper gluconate or copper bisglycinate. Determine whether you are looking for a standalone copper supplement or a mineral complex in which copper is combined with other nutrients. Take into account the balance between copper and zinc and pay attention to purity. Copper is an essential trace element; for related products, also view our collections Minerals and Zinc.