Introduction
Copper is found in major organs like the liver, kidney, brain, skeletal muscle and heart. Copper is essential for the human body to survive. Still, excessive copper can lead to an imbalance in minerals in the body and, therefore, to a collapse in functionality.
Functions of Copper in the Human Body
Copper is a crucial mineral required for the human body's function. It contributes in various aspects like,
- Producing energy
- Making collagen
- Absorbing iron
- Maintaining nerve cells
- Supporting the immune system
- Brain development
- Regulating blood pressure and, therefore, heart rate
- Development of connective tissues
- Prohibiting prostatitis
- Growth and maintenance of bone
What happens when there’s excess copper
While copper deficiency is not ideal for the body, copper toxicity is equally distressing. Here are some of the effects of excessive copper in the body :
- Liver damage
- Abdominal pain
- Cramps
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Jaundice
- Heart failure
- Kidney failure
Causes of excessive copper or copper toxicity
Copper toxicity is not a common condition. However, there are a few ways that a person might be affected by high levels of copper.
- Accidental consumption of copper-contaminated water (mainly through copper-infested pipes).
- Creams containing copper for burns and chronic wounds.
- Residues of fungicides and pesticides in food.
- Intra-uterine devices that have copper.
- The hydrated form of copper sulphate is vibrant, leading children to consume it unintentionally.
- In some cultures, copper sulphate is burnt for good luck.
- Acidic foods cooked in uncoated copper cookware.
- Excessive supplementation.
- Neonates and infants are at a higher risk as their biliary excretion is still developing, so they have an increased intestinal absorption.
Wilson’s disease is a rare genetic disorder where the body cannot get rid of the copper, eventually leading to excessive copper buildup in the brain, liver, kidneys, and other organs.
Ways to remove excess copper naturally
Reducing the consumption of high-copper food like:
- Beef liver
- Oysters
- Mushrooms
- Cashew nuts
- Sunflower seeds
- Potatoes
- Dark chocolate
- Tofu
Increasing the consumption of high-zinc food like:
- Red meat
- Poultry
- Wheat germ
- Wild rice
- Seeds
- Nuts
- Baked beans
- Peas
As a boost to the ongoing treatment, a particular nutrient-rich diet like the Mediterranean diet can improve recovery. Mediterranean diet includes,
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins
- Healthy fats
Avoiding any source of copper exposure, like:
- Copper plumbing
- Swimming pool treatments
- Consumption of supplements
- Cookware, which has copper
Apart from naturally reducing the level of copper in the body, there are also treatments like copper chelation therapy, where copper chelators bind to copper ions, reducing their activity and removing them from the cells or transferring them between cells.
Conclusion
Even though copper is found in major organs and is vital for survival, excess copper can be fatal. Knowing the source of your excess copper consumption and terminating it is essential. Home remedies might work depending on the magnitude of the condition; otherwise, it is recommended to consult a doctor.
