Copper

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Similarly to the copper metal, your body needs this mineral in order to function optimally every day. It is one of the few metallic elements that your body needs in small amounts like vitamins and amino acids which is used to aid the metabolic processes daily.

Sources
Your body is not able to synthesize copper itself. As such, you will need to source it from your daily food intake or through dietary supplements to fulfil the needs of your body. Seafood is known to be highest with copper. However, it must be noted that you must not take too much or it could be damaging. Oysters and squids have acceptable amount of copper while you can take Kale and mushrooms which can be the raw morel or cooked ones. Sunflower seeds meanwhile has been linked as a good supplier of copper together with hazelnuts and walnuts. Besides that, you can take prunes and avocadoes or complement your daily diet through supplements.

What does it do?
Copper is used by your body to make enzymes. This is very important in your body system because it plays a part in energy production. It helps in creating healthy skin as it transforms melanin for pigmentation purposes and aids in repairing tissues that are damaged. In the long term, it will ensure that your heart and arteries can function efficiently.

Deficiency and Symptoms
In recent researches, it has been found that lacking in copper has led to cardiovascular diseases. This means that you have to ensure that you are getting enough copper in your food intake. Otherwise, it could lead to disorders like celiac disease, tropical sprue and cystic fibrosis which are all related to problems with absorption of nutrients in your body. Besides that, it could lead to abnormal weight loss, fatigue and even anaemia which could be lead to more serious conditions.

Recommended Dosage
In general, an adult should receive about 1.5 to 2.0mg of copper for every kg of your weight. In most cases, your body should get its daily supply of copper from your daily diet but in cases where it is not possible, you would need to look for it through dietary supplements.

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