Copper, Cu: 10 Research-Backed Benefits & 4 Side-Effects
Copper is a trace mineral that shouldn't be under-or over-consumed. Under consuming can lead to deficiency and over-consuming can be toxic.
Potential benefits of consuming the right amount of copper are: that it stimulates the immune system to fight infections, repair injured tissues, and promote healing. Copper also helps to neutralize free-radicals. Studies have also shown that copper is required for bone strength, red and white cell maturation, iron transport, cholesterol, and glucose metabolism.
Copper is also essential for the normal growth and development of human fetuses, infants, and children.
As for side-effects of copper, it has a critical role in neurological diseases that may contribute to the neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s disease.
High copper levels pose a possible risk factor for heart disease. There is also research suggesting that chronic copper exposure may cause diarrhea in children.
In this article, we list claims of potential benefits and/or side-effects of copper, cu that we have found research on. Every claim is listed with all of its sources. We get these claims from our Nutrition Tool.
We also have an article about copper, cu named What Is Copper & What Foods Can I Find It In? if you're interested in learning more.
Table of Contents
Research-Backed Beneficial Claims Of Copper, Cu
These are some of the potential research-backed health benefits of copper, cu.
1. Blood Sugar
Copper - Blood Sugar
About this claim
Blood sugar is the amount of glucose present in your blood. Every time you eat, your blood sugar fluctuates. Over time, high blood sugar can lead to long-term, serious health problems. Research is telling us, nutritional management is one way to control blood sugar levels. Some specific nutrients can have a beneficial impact on your blood sugar. One effect can be not to cause blood sugar spikes.
Research sources for this claim
- Opinion of the Scientific Committee on Food on the Tolerable Upper Intake Level of Copper ◳
- Helps glucose metabolism
You are welcome to explore 25 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
2. Bone Health
Copper - Bone Health
About this claim
It is crucial to keep your bones healthy. Poor bone health can cause a variety of conditions. Specific nutrients have been shown through research to be beneficial for bone health, keeping your bones strong and healthy. The bones need to work together with muscles and joints to hold your body together.
Research sources for this claim
- Dietary copper and human health: Current evidence and unresolved issues ◳
- Opinion of the Scientific Committee on Food on the Tolerable Upper Intake Level of Copper ◳
You are welcome to explore 23 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
3. Cell Health
Copper - Cell Health
About this claim
A cell is the smallest unit of life. They provide structure for the body, taking nutrients from food, and carry out functions. Our cells require nutrients to function optimally. According to research, some specific nutrients can beneficially affect your cells. Healthy cells are vital for your overall health.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 36 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
4. Child Growth
Copper - Child Growth
About this claim
Children grow from birth to the ages of 15-17. Evidence through research shows that some nutrients may help your child reach their full growth potential.
Research sources for this claim
- Opinion of the Scientific Committee on Food on the Tolerable Upper Intake Level of Copper ◳
- Especially infant growth
You are welcome to explore 26 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
5. Cholesterol
Copper - Cholesterol
About this claim
Cholesterol is a waxy substance your body needs to build cells. Research has shown that there are some nutrients that might be beneficial for your cholesterol in a variety of ways.
Research sources for this claim
- Dietary copper and human health: Current evidence and unresolved issues ◳
- Opinion of the Scientific Committee on Food on the Tolerable Upper Intake Level of Copper ◳
You are welcome to explore 27 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
6. Heart Health
Copper - Heart Health
About this claim
The heart is our most important muscle. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in Western countries. According to research, a healthy diet with the right kind of nutrients is essential for your heart health.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 32 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
7. Human Metabolism
Copper - Human Metabolism
About this claim
Metabolism is when our body's cells change food into energy. Research indicates that some nutrients can be beneficial in the metabolism process.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 8 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
8. Immune System
Copper - Immune System
About this claim
Our body's immune system protects us from bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances. A well-functioning immune system is critical for survival. Consuming enough right nutrients in your diet is required for the health and function of all immune cells, according to research. Specific nutrients might help with modulating your immune system for it to work at its best.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 34 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
9. Infant Development
Copper - Infant Development
About this claim
Infants are children between 0-1 years of age. Some nutrients are essential for infants. They are necessary to lay the foundations for lifelong health. The most crucial nutrients for infants will they obtain from breast milk. When an infant doesn't breastfeed, it's crucial to make sure the child gets all the nutrients it needs.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 20 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
10. Iron Absorption
Copper - Iron Absorption
About this claim
Iron is an essential mineral needed for your blood and other functions in your body. There are nutrients, according to research, that can help your body with the absorption when consumed together with iron-rich foods.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 4 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
Research-Backed Side-Effects Of Copper, Cu
These are some of the potential research-backed side-effects of copper, cu.
1. Alzheimer's Disease
Copper - Alzheimer's Disease
About this claim
Alzheimer's disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder. According to research, some nutrients may affect people negatively with the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease or those that already have contracted it.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 6 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
2. Cell Health
Copper - Cell Health
About this claim
A cell is the smallest unit of life. Our cells require nutrients to function optimally. But according to research, some nutrients might affect your cells negatively. If your cells don’t function as they should, it will affect your overall health.
Research sources for this claim
- Dietary copper and human health: Current evidence and unresolved issues ◳
- Cell damage if taken in large quantities
You are welcome to explore 36 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
3. Heart Health
Copper - Heart Health
About this claim
The heart is our most important muscle. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in Western countries. According to research, specific nutrients can affect your heart health negatively.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 32 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
4. Stomach And Intestine
Copper - Stomach And Intestine
About this claim
Your stomach and intestines are where the nutrients from the food you consume get in your body. Research shows that some nutrients may interfere in this process.
Research sources for this claim
- Opinion of the Scientific Committee on Food on the Tolerable Upper Intake Level of Copper ◳
- May cause diarrhea in children
You are welcome to explore 20 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.