Copper and zinc are essential trace minerals that play significant roles in various bodily functions. They are often discussed together due to their interconnected roles and interactions within the body.

Benefits

Zinc is involved in numerous aspects of cellular metabolism, immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and cell division¹. It is particularly crucial in the maintenance of immune cells, influencing their activity which has implications for reducing the duration and severity of illnesses such as diarrhea and pneumonia². Zinc deficiencies can lead to increased susceptibility to infections, delayed wound healing, and skin ulcers³.

Copper is essential for iron metabolism, energy production, and functioning of the nervous and immune systems. It acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in the formation of collagen, antioxidant defense, and neurotransmitter synthesis. Copper deficiency can lead to anemia, bone abnormalities, and cardiovascular problems.

Interactions

Zinc and copper share a competitive absorption mechanism in the intestinal tract. Excessive intake of zinc can interfere with copper absorption, leading to copper deficiency⁴. This is due to zinc's induction of metallothionein, a protein that preferentially binds to copper, preventing its absorption⁵. Therefore, it is important to maintain a proper balance between these two minerals to avoid deficiencies.

Recommendations

When supplementing with zinc, it is often recommended to include copper to mitigate potential imbalances⁶. This is especially important in populations with low mineral intakes or clinical conditions requiring high-dose zinc supplementation.

Considerations

It’s important to consult healthcare providers when considering zinc and copper supplements, particularly due to their interactions with medications and their essential roles in body functions⁷.

Footnotes

1. Office of Dietary Supplements - Zinc. (2022). Retrieved from NIH ODS ↩

2. Berger, A., "Science commentary: What does zinc do?" PMC ↩

3. Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, "Zinc." (2024). The Nutrition Source ↩

4. Rabinovich, D., "Zinc - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf." Retrieved from NCBI Bookshelf ↩

5. Mocchegiani, E., "Zinc: dietary intake and impact of supplementation on immune function in elderly." PMC ↩

6. Berger, A., "Science commentary: What does zinc do?" PMC ↩

7. Office of Dietary Supplements - Zinc. (2022). Retrieved from NIH ODS ↩