Understanding Zinc and Copper Interaction: Dietary Considerations
Explore how high zinc intake from supplements and a meat-rich diet can affect copper absorption, potentially leading to deficiency. Learn about the health implications of copper deficiency and the importance of balancing nutrient intake with dietary guidance.
I eat a lot of meat and eggs and I take zinc, will I need a copper supplement?
If you are consuming a high intake of zinc, it can interfere with the absorption of copper, potentially leading to a copper deficiency12. This is particularly true if your zinc intake is at or above the upper limit of 40 mg per day, typically from supplements or other high-zinc sources23. Since you already consume a diet rich in meat and eggs, which are good sources of zinc, and you're supplementing with zinc, you should be mindful of these interactions.
Copper deficiency, although uncommon, can lead to several health issues including anemia, weakened immune function, and bone abnormalities3. If you are taking significant levels of zinc supplements, it might be beneficial to consider your copper intake to ensure it remains adequate.
If you are concerned about potential zinc and copper interactions, or your dietary intake, consulting with a healthcare provider or a nutritionist might be a good step to ensure you're meeting all your nutritional needs effectively.
Footnotes
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Office of Dietary Supplements - Zinc, accessed 2022-09-28. ↩
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Office of Dietary Supplements - Copper, accessed 2022-10-18. ↩ ↩2
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Office of Dietary Supplements - Copper, accessed 2022-10-18. ↩ ↩2
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