The Significance of Copper in History
Copper and silver were used by those who could afford it for wound dressings in ancient times. This antiseptic property was also valued for dining utensils. Therefore, knives and forks and later plates were made from copper, and the wealthier individuals could afford these items in silver. The first mirrors consisted of polished copper discs. Copper is rarely found in its pure state in nature; it is usually alloyed with other metals. Copper is processed with tin and lead to make bronze or only with tin to create brass.
Functioning of Copper
Copper is highly toxic for lower organisms, but only at very high concentrations for vertebrates and humans. A person can consume up to 0.04 grams of copper daily without harm. The daily requirement for copper is approximately 1 to 1.5 milligrams. Copper is stored in the liver where it can accumulate up to 40 mg. Copper in food can be found in liver, nuts, and grains as well as chocolate.
Copper Deficiency
Copper deficiency only occurs when a diarrheal disease persists for a long time, undernutrition is present, or with some other diseases. Alzheimer's disease may occur alongside copper deficiency. There is an increased need for copper during physical activities. Since the body can store copper, it is not essential to constantly consume enough copper. If there is a copper deficiency, this manifests as a sudden drop in physical performance because copper metabolism is closely linked to iron homeostasis. If the intestine does not receive enough copper, it cannot process iron, leading to an iron deficiency. This can be balanced with small oral doses of copper.
Overview of Trace Elements
| Chromium |
| Iron |
| Fluorine |
| Iodine |
| Copper |
| Manganese |
| Selenium |
| Zinc |