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Copper, found in the bones,
muscles, brain, heart, liver and kidneys, is an important trace
mineral for the cardiovascular, nervous and skeletal systems.
Copper pipes and cooking pans may raise the copper content of
food and water. Highly processed foods are often depleted of
most of their copper content.
Natural Food Sources
Avocado, blackstrap molasses fish, legumes, lentils, liver,
lobster, nuts, oats, oysters, peanuts, raisins, salmon, seeds,
shell fish, soybeans, spinach.
Main Functions
Copper is involved in the absorption and metabolism of iron. It
also helps form connective tissue, nerve fibers and red blood
cells. Copper helps keep your arteries flexible.
Deficiency Symptoms
Severe copper deficiency is rare. Too much zinc, or excessive
diarrhea may lead to a marginal deficiency with symptoms such as
anemia, skeletal defects, loss of pigment in hair and skin,
decreased resistance to infection, heart disease, high
cholesterol, nervous system disorders, lack of coordination and
a tingling of the extremities.
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