Benefits of Copper
Copper is an essential trace mineral that facilitates the activity of several copper dependent enzymes and physiological processes within the body.
HOW DOES THE BODY USE COPPER
Copper is an essential trace element for humans and animals. Although Hippocrates is said to have recommended copper compounds as early as 400 B.C., scientists are still uncovering new information regarding the functions of copper in the human body.
Copper is an essential trace mineral that facilitates the activity of several enzymes. The mineral provides a role in the development and maintenance of the cardiovascular system, including the heart, arteries, and other blood vessels, the skeletal system, and the structure and function of the nervous system, including the brain.
Copper (Cu) ions are activators of superoxide dismutase. (SOD)
SOD acts as an endogenous cellular defense system that degrades superoxide (O2-) into oxygen and hydrogen peroxide. Therefore, SOD is potentially useful as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
Copper is a critical functional component of a number of essential enzymes, known as cuproenzymes. The copper-dependent enzyme, cytochrome c oxidase, plays a critical role in cellular energy production.
Another cuproenzyme, lysyl oxidase, is required for the cross-linking of collagen and elastin, which are essential for the formation of strong and flexible connective tissue. The action of lysyl oxidase helps maintain the integrity of connective tissue in the heart and blood vessels and plays a role in bone formation.
A number of reactions essential to normal function of the brain and nervous system are catalyzed by cuproenzymes.
Copper is involved in respiration and the synthesis of hemoglobin. It is essential in the production of collagen and the neurotransmitter noradrenalin. It is an important blood antioxidant and prevents the rancidity of polyunsaturated fats.
Copper is involved in numerous enzyme systems that break down or build up body tissues. It plays a role in the production of the skin pigment melanin by converting the amino acid tyrosine. The mineral is essential for the synthesis of phospholipids, which are a component of the myelin sheath that surrounds nerves.
Copper works with iron in the development and maintenance of red blood cells and their protein hemoglobin.
SOD acts as an endogenous cellular defense system that degrades superoxide (O2-) into oxygen and hydrogen peroxide. Therefore, SOD is potentially useful as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.