Best Copper Supplement: Complete Guide
Table of Contents
- What is copper used for as a supplement?
- The Ranking of the Best Copper Supplements on the Market
- What does copper do to skin?
- How much copper can you take per day?
- How to integrate copper?
- How does a copper deficiency manifest itself?
- What foods are rich in copper?
- Conclusion: How to choose the best copper supplement
Copper is a trace element essential for the proper functioning of the body. A deficiency can lead to various disorders, while an adequate intake contributes to the maintenance of skin, hair, bones and the immune system. For this reason, in some cases it may be useful to integrate copper through the intake of a specific supplement. But what is the best copper supplement on the market? And how do you choose the one that best suits your needs?
In this comprehensive guide, we will discover everything there is to know about copper as a supplement: what it is for, when to take it, the best products available, the right daily doses, the beneficial effects it can have, contraindications and much more. We will also analyze in detail some of the most common forms of copper supplements, such as those for hair, skin and nails.
Back to topWhat is copper used for as a supplement?
Copper has many important functions in the body. Here are the main ones:
- Contributes to normal skin and hair pigmentation
- Supports the health of the nervous system
- Supports normal iron metabolism
- Maintains healthy bones and teeth
- Supports the proper functioning of the immune system
- Contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress
- Participates in collagen synthesis
- Supports normal production of red and white blood cells
For these reasons, taking a copper supplement can be useful in several cases:
- To prevent or treat a copper deficiency
- During pregnancy and breastfeeding, when the need for copper increases
- In case of high oxidative stress
- To support healthy skin, hair and nails
- To keep the immune system efficient
- For athletes and in case of intense physical activity
- In case of unbalanced diets and malabsorption
- For seniors with reduced copper intake
The Ranking of the Best Copper Supplements on the Market
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of copper supplements, exploring four of the most popular products currently available. These supplements were selected based on their composition, the health benefits they offer, and their reputation among users.
1. Sanuvit® Copper Capsules: A Highly Bioavailable Option
At the top of our list are Sanuvit® Copper Capsules. This supplement stands out for its highly bioavailable formula, which ensures optimal absorption of copper in the body. Each capsule contains a balanced dosage of copper, making it easy to maintain an adequate intake of this important mineral. In addition, Sanuvit® has taken into account the needs of all consumers, making the product suitable for both vegans and vegetarians and ensuring the absence of common allergens. The only drawback, according to some users, is that the capsules can be a bit large and difficult to swallow.
2. Fairvital | Copper 2mg: A High Dosage for Optimal Support
The second product on our list is the copper supplement Fairvital. This product stands out with its high copper dosage, which provides optimal support for the nervous system, hair and skin pigmentation, and the immune system. In addition, with a 100-day supply, Fairvital offers a convenient option for those looking for a long-term supplement. Like the Sanuvit® product, this supplement is also suitable for vegans and free from common allergens. However, some users have reported that the tablets can be a little difficult to swallow.
3. Copper Bisglycinate Vegan: Bioavailability and Purity
The third copper supplement on our list is Copper Bisglycinate Vegan. This product offers a high dose of copper in a highly bioavailable form, copper bisglycinate. This form of copper is easily absorbed by the body, ensuring that you get the most benefit from each dose. Additionally, this supplement is suitable for vegans and does not contain any common allergens. Some users have reported that the tablets can be a bit large, making them difficult to swallow.
4. Vitamintrend® Copper 2mg: A Long-Term Option
Finally, the last copper supplement on our list is Vitamintrend® Copper 2mg. This product offers a high dosage of copper and an impressive 6-month supply, making it an ideal option for those looking for a long-term supplement. Like the other products on our list, this supplement is also suitable for vegans and does not contain common allergens. However, some users have reported side effects such as headaches and inflammatory issues.
In conclusion, these four copper supplements represent some of the best options available on the market. Each offers a variety of health benefits and has a positive reputation among users.
Back to topWhat does copper do to skin?
Copper has several beneficial functions for the health and beauty of the skin. Here are the main effects of copper on the skin:
- Stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, preserving the skin's elasticity
- Counteracts the formation of free radicals, protecting cells from aging
- Promotes correct pigmentation, reducing spots and dischromia
- Helps keep skin hydrated and smooth
- Strengthens capillaries, reducing rosacea and redness
- Contributes to wound repair and healing
- Supports the health of the skin barrier, reducing irritation and flaking
For this reason, copper supplements can be recommended in case of dry and dehydrated skin, with wrinkles and sagging skin, but also to prevent and reduce skin blemishes. However, it should always be taken according to the doctor's instructions.
Back to topHow much copper can you take per day?
The recommended daily dose of copper varies depending on age and health conditions. Here are the recommended amounts:
- Infants 0-12 months: 200 mcg/day
- Children 1-3 years: 340 mcg/day
- Children 4-8 years: 440 mcg/day
- Children 9-13 years: 700 mcg/day
- Adolescents + adults: 900 mcg/day
- Pregnant women: 1000 mcg/day
- Breastfeeding women: 1300 mcg/day
However, for copper supplements it is best not to exceed the maximum tolerable dose, which for adults is 10 mg/day (10,000 mcg). The optimal dose should be established together with your doctor based on your real needs.
Furthermore, an excessive intake of copper can have harmful effects, so it is best not to overdo it with DIY supplements and always follow the specialist's instructions.
Back to topHow to integrate copper?
Copper can be integrated in different ways:
- Copper supplements : these are the most convenient and doseable products. They are found in tablets, capsules, drops, powders, syrups. The most bioavailable forms are gluconate and bisglycinate.
- Multivitamins and multiminerals : often contain copper in varying quantities. Useful for a daily intake.
- Foods rich in copper : seafood, shellfish, oysters, liver, legumes, whole grains, dried fruit. They guarantee a physiological intake.
- Copper-based cosmetics : face creams, body lotions, muds, masks and other products for topical use, with beneficial effects on the skin.
- Copper oligomineral water : replenishes the levels of this mineral, with good assimilability.
- Copper Vials : Injectable solution for rapid restoration of blood copper levels. For medical use only.
The best form depends on the needs: for prevention, food is enough; in case of a confirmed deficiency, targeted supplements or vials may be useful.
Back to topHow does a copper deficiency manifest itself?
A copper deficiency can cause several symptoms, including:
- Anemia
- Tiredness and weakness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Dry and brittle hair
- Changes in skin and hair pigmentation
- Loss of collagen
- Reduced immune response
- Growth and development delay
- Osteoporosis and bone problems
- Neuropathies and neurological disorders
- Difficulty in iron metabolism
Copper deficiency is rare in adults, while it is more frequent in children, the elderly, during pregnancy, in cases of intestinal malabsorption, unbalanced diets or surgery on the stomach and intestines.
Symptoms tend to appear slowly over time. In case of deficiency it is therefore advisable to perform targeted blood tests.
Back to topWhat foods are rich in copper?
Copper is found in many foods. Here are the ones that are richest in it:
- Liver and offal : These are the richest food source of copper. For example, 100 g of calf liver provides about 5 mg of copper.
- Shellfish and mollusks : Shrimp, lobster, oysters and clams are excellent sources of copper, with about 2 mg per 100 g.
- Nuts : Pistachios, walnuts and almonds contain good amounts of absorbable copper.
- Legumes : lentils, beans, peas and chickpeas are rich in them. 100 g of cooked lentils provide approximately 0.5 mg.
- Whole grains : These contain more copper than refined grains. Good sources are oats, barley, rye, and buckwheat.
- Dark Chocolate : 28g of 70% dark chocolate contains approximately 0.3mg of copper.
- Seafood : Mussels, octopus, cuttlefish are excellent sources of this trace element.
- Dried fruit : Sultanas, prunes and dried apricots contain good amounts.
- Bitter vegetables : artichokes, turnip tops, radicchio.
To ensure an adequate copper intake, it is therefore advisable to consume these foods regularly, as part of a varied and balanced diet.
Back to topConclusion: How to choose the best copper supplement
In conclusion, copper is an essential trace element for the health of the body. Taking it through a targeted supplement can be useful in several cases, for example to prevent or treat a deficiency, support skin, hair and immune system.
The most common copper supplements are found in tablets, capsules or vials. The most bioavailable forms are copper gluconate and copper bisglycinate. Before purchasing, it is important to carefully read the copper dosage present and follow the directions for use.
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