Copper is a trace element, which means it cannot be broken down into any component parts. It is common in food products and the human body, where it is used to absorb and process iron. In addition, copper is a component of the antioxidantenzyme, superoxide dismutase (SOD). It is necessary to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the fuel that the body uses to function. Various hormone production processes use copper, and it is also used in the production of collagen, which attaches tissue to each other. Also, copper is needed for the proper operation of tyrosinase, which is involved in the creation of skin pigment.
It has been demonstrated that taking copper in the form of a vitamin stimulates the amount of SOD in the human body.
The majority of the population does not get quite enough copper in their diet. The suggested daily intake of copper is 1.5-3 mg. Few studies have been conducted to show the effects of getting slightly less copper than recommended, and severe copper deficit is a rare problem.
by the Harvard School of Public Health
It has been asked by millions of people “If you eat a healthy diet, do you need to take vitamins?” Not very long ago, the common answer from most experts and professionals would have been an emphatic "no". However, today there's quite a bit of evidence that taking a daily multivitamin makes good sense for most adults.
by the Mayoclinic Staff
Given the popularity and availability of “high potency” amino acids, antioxidants, enzymes and herbs, it might seem like dietary supplements could replace food as a source of the nutrients the body requires. However, this is not the case.
Copyright 2008 by VitaGuide, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
