Copper deficiency - symptoms, causes and treatment

What is copper deficiency and how much copper do you need every day?

Copper deficiency, too Hypocupremia called, a state in which the body does not have sufficient amounts of the essential trace element copper. Copper plays a crucial role in numerous physiological processes, including the formation of red blood cells, the development of connective tissue, the function of the nervous system and the strengthening of the immune system.

The recommended daily supply of copper varies depending on age and gender. Adults usually need About 900 micrograms Copper per day. Pregnant and breastfeeding women have an increased need and should consume up to 1300 micrograms every day. A lack of this vital trace element can have far -reaching consequences for health and should be recognized and treated early.

Copper deficiency symptoms

The symptoms of a copper lack are diverse and can easily be confused with other diseases. The most common signs include:

• anemia
• Weakness and fatigue
• Susceptibility to infections
• Deafness
• Equilibrium
• Dry, scaly skin
• Slowed wound healing

Copper deficiency symptoms in women

Due to hormonal factors and increased need during pregnancy and breastfeeding, women are particularly susceptible to copper deficiency. In addition to the general symptoms, the following signs can occur in women:

1. Irregular menstruation: Copper plays a role in regulating the menstrual cycle. A deficiency can lead to disorders.
2. infertility: Sufficient copper is important for fertility. A deficit can reduce the chances of pregnancy.
3. pre-eclampsia: Pregnant women with copper deficiency have an increased risk of this dangerous complication.
4. Postpartum depression: A copper deficit can increase the risk of psychological problems after birth.

Causes of copper deficiency

A copper deficiency can have different causes. This includes:

1. Insufficient supply: A one -sided nutrition or a too low absorption of copper -containing foods can lead to a deficiency.
2. Malabsorption: Certain diseases of the digestive tract, such as celiac disease or chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, can affect the absorption of copper.
3. Genetic factors: Rare hereditary diseases, such as Menkes's disease, disrupt copper metabolism.
4. Interactions with other nutrients: An excess of zinc or iron can inhibit the absorption of copper.
5. Medication: Some medicines, such as proton pump inhibitors or chelatbilders, can affect copper absorption.

Copper in food

Vegan copper sources (per 100 g)

1. Spirulina (dried): 6.1 mg
2. Shiitake mushrooms (dried): 5.2 mg
3. Unsweetened baking chocolate: 3.2 mg
4. Sesame: 2.5 mg
5. Cashwkerne: 2.2 mg
6. Sunflower seeds: 1.8 mg
7. Dark chocolate (70-85% cocoa): 1.8 mg
8. Hazelnuts: 1.8 mg
9. Paranse: 1.7 mg
10. Tafini: 1.6 mg

Animal copper sources (per 100 g)

1. Cattle liver (fried): 14.6 mg
2. Lamb liver (fried): 9.8 mg
3. Oysters (cooked): 5.7 mg
4. Inkfish (fried): 2.1 mg
5. Wellhorn snails (cooked): 2.1 mg
6. Hummer (cooked): 1.6 mg
7. Königskrabbe (cooked): 1.2 mg
8. Soft goat cheese: 0.7 mg
9. Mussels (cooked): 0.7 mg
10. Fat -free cheese: 0.6 mg

In order to cover the daily copper requirement, both vegetable and animal foods are available. Excellent vegan copper sources are, for example Spirulina, dried shiitake mushrooms, dark chocolate, sesame and cashew nuts. Various nuts and seeds as well as legumes and whole grain products also contain significant amounts of the trace element.

Above all, the animal foods stab Liver, oysters and some seafood with a high copper content. But certain types of cheese such as goat cheese or low -fat cheese can also contribute to copper supply.

Drinking against copper deficiency

In addition to a balanced, copper -rich diet, special Drinking meals contribute to covering the copper requirement and preventing a defect. Manufacturer like Saturo offer Liquid food on that contains an optimized nutrient combination including copper.

Especially for people with an increased copper requirement, such as Pregnant, breastfeeding or sportsman, as well as for people with Admission disorders such drinking meals can be a sensible addition. They are a practical and tasty option to Deficiency symptoms to counteract.