Zinc and copper are two essential minerals that interact within the body, particularly affecting how they are absorbed and utilized.

High intakes of zinc can interfere with the body's ability to absorb copper. This interference occurs because zinc induces the synthesis of a protein called metallothionein in the intestines, which binds to copper and prevents its absorption into the bloodstream¹². This interaction is particularly significant with intakes of zinc at 50 mg per day or more over extended periods³.

Copper deficiency induced by excessive zinc supplementation can lead to anemia, neutropenia, and neurological symptoms. However, typical dietary intakes of zinc do not generally affect copper absorption¹. It is important to monitor and balance the intake of these minerals, especially when high-dose zinc supplements are used over long periods.

Copper is available in various forms in dietary supplements, such as cupric oxide, cupric sulfate, and copper gluconate². Both copper and zinc are found in many multivitamin/mineral supplements, allowing users to balance their intake more easily.

Footnotes

1. Oregon State University ↩ ↩²

2. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements ↩ ↩²

3. Andrew Duncan, "The risk of copper deficiency in patients prescribed zinc supplements" ↩