Copper is one of the body’s essential nutrients. When combined with iron, it enables the body to create red blood cells. Copper is also beneficial in maintaining a healthy immune system, nerves, blood vessels and bones, and these aren’t the only health benefits. If you want to learn more, keep reading!
What is Copper?
After zinc and iron, copper is the third most abundant trace element in the body. It’s found in every tissue, but it’s particularly prominent in the liver. We humans need small amounts of copper in our diet, but many of us have a deficiency because we ignore copper-rich foods.
The body contains anywhere between 100-500 milligrams of copper, so you can’t underestimate its role. It’s used to manufacture various enzymes, some of which act as antioxidants or help form collagen and hemoglobin. Iron and copper also work together to make red blood cells and form the outer layer of collagen and nerve fibers.
The History of Copper
The use of copper can be traced back to early Roman civilization, where people used it for hygenic purposes. They believed that storing water in copper containers made it safer to drink, and using it to make cookware and utensils helped prevent the spread of disease.
After the discovery of microbes, scientists began to understand copper’s antimicrobial properties and how they work to get rid of bacterial infections. Today, copper is even incorporated into many chemicals, like fungicides, pesticides and more.
Sources of Copper
A well-balanced diet will contain enough copper for the body’s needs. It may include:
- Organ meat
- Blackstrap molasses
- Tofu
- Soybeans
- Chicken
- Nuts
- Green leafy vegetables
- Prunes
- Fruits
- Dark chocolate
- Dried brewer’s yeast
- Oysters
- Legumes
- Wholegrain cereals
Health Benefits of Copper
Here are some of the best health benefits of copper:
Produces enzymatic reactions. Copper has 50 types of antioxidants that may also work as antioxidants.
Helps stimulate the brain. Supplying oxygen to the brain ensures proper function of both the brain and the nerves. This is why copper is beneficial as a brain stimulant.
Helps assist the thyroid gland. The mineral is effective in helping the thyroid glands with secretion and hormonal balancing.
Helps maintain connective tissues. The mineral helps maintain the health of the myelin sheath, which is what surrounds and protects the nerves. It also helps regulate the function of lysyl oxidase.
Helps with the formation of RBC. Copper is important in supplying healthy and oxygenated blood throughout the body. When combined with iron, it helps with the synthesis and respiration of haemoglobin and the release of much-needed iron.
Helps pigment the eyes, hair and skin. Copper produces melanin, which is responsible for giving your body the colour it has.
Helps with the utilization of iron. Copper essentially helps the body absorb and utilize iron. Hence, the mineral is beneficial in oxidizing glucose and releasing energy.
Helps promote proper growth. The mineral is beneficial for proper growth, which is why it’s an essential part of the diet.
Skin Benefits of Copper Peptides
Copper peptides, the remains of proteins, are important for skin care. They can:
- Repair damages to the protective barrier of the skin
- Help rebuild the skin and diminish scars
- Get rid of fine lines and other signs of aging
- Help regenerate new elastin and collagen in the skin.
- Offer anti-inflammatory properties to help treat various skin conditions
- Help regenerate the skin and make it look fair again
