Copper Toxicity

Here’s What Copper Toxicity Can Do to Your Body

Copper is an essential mineral that’s necessary for various physiological processes in the human body. While you need copper, too much can cause issues. A genetic predisposition, excessive intake or exposure to copper (such as a copper IUD) can lead to a condition known as copper toxicity (not Wilson’s Disease, a rare genetic disorder). This can occur through various means, such as consuming contaminated water, excessively high dietary intake, occupational exposure or birth control. Copper toxicity presents a range of symptoms and effects that can negatively impact different organ systems in the body.

If you suffer from these symptoms, let’s chat about how functional nutrition can help you.

• Neurological Symptoms
  One of the most common sets of symptoms associated with copper toxicity involve neurological problems that significantly impact the brain and nervous system. This is because copper lowers dopamine (a neurotransmitter that controls the brain’s pleasure and reward centers) and increases norepinephrine (another neurotransmitter that also functions as a stress hormone) in the brain. When elevated, copper puts the body in a pro-inflammatory state. Symptoms include headaches, nerve pain, psychosis, dizziness, confusion, insomnia, irritability, hyperactivity, mood changes, and difficulty concentrating. These neurological effects can have a significant impact on a person’s overall well-being and cognitive function.

• Gut Issues
  Other common symptoms associated with copper toxicity involve gut and gastrointestinal issues. These may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. Copper and zinc are required to maintain a healthy gut and digestive system. Additionally, individuals experiencing copper toxicity often report a persistent metallic taste in their mouth, which can be quite unpleasant.

• Menstrual Disorders
  Due to the relationship between copper and estrogen, menstrual disorders such as Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and uterine fibroids are quite common with copper overload in females. Postpartum depression and psychosis are directly related to high copper levels because copper naturally increases during pregnancy to make blood vessels. These challenges are especially heartbreaking for women trying to care for their families.

• Organ-Related Inflammation
  Copper toxicity can inflame and damage vital organs such as the liver and kidneys. Elevated liver enzyme levels, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and kidney damage or dysfunction are potential consequences. These issues can be particularly concerning as they may require medical intervention and can have long-term health implications.

• Anemia
  In terms of blood-related symptoms, copper toxicity can lead to anemia, which is characterized by a low red blood cell count. Additionally, it can cause hemolysis, which is the destruction of red blood cells, and neutropenia, which is a low white blood cell count. These hematological problems can further compromise an individual’s health and immune system.

Functional Nutrition Gets to the Root Cause of Your Symptoms

If someone suspects they may have copper toxicity, it’s crucial to consult with a provider who specializes in this complex condition. At Eat for Life, I conduct the proper tests to measure copper levels and assess the severity of the condition. Treatment involves advanced nutrient therapy while addressing specific symptoms and complications through nutrition counseling. 

Early detection and intervention are essential to manage copper toxicity effectively.

Even if your labs don’t point toward copper toxicity, I can help you manage your symptoms. Your symptoms and experience matter. We will get to the bottom of your discomfort one way or another!

Who Can Have Copper Overload?

I often see females with high anxiety, chronic fatigue, severe PMS, and depression to be overloaded in copper due to the relationship between copper and estrogen. Copper rises with estrogen and is an essential component of blood vessel formation during pregnancy. Women who have had more than one child are at greater risk of developing copper overload.

Certain subtypes of breast cancer are estrogen-sensitive, making copper-toxic females more at risk. However, any gender of any age can have this condition, and it is also an intrinsic part of autism. Copper toxicity is often an underlying cause of anxiety and panic disorders, depression (especially postpartum), bipolar disorder, ADHD, violent behavior, and paranoid schizophrenia.

How Can We Fix Copper Toxicity?

Please understand that copper is a very important metal for proper body function. For example, copper helps regulate iron metabolism as well as bacteria and yeast in the gut, but it must be in balance with zinc.

The goal of functional nutrition is never to “strip” your body of copper but to balance it, which can be safely done through dietary and nutrient therapy, as well as lifestyle modifications. 

From a birdseye view, we will focus on incorporating foods rich in zinc, such as grass-fed beef, lamb, and bison, in addition to proper supplementation. These help boost zinc levels and compete with copper absorption in the intestines. Additionally, reducing the intake of copper-rich foods, such as organ meats, shellfish, and nuts can help regulate copper levels. It’s also important to ensure an overall balanced diet, as nutrients like vitamin C and zinc can aid in regulating copper metabolism.

But first, let’s see if you might be impacted by copper toxicity. Take my free, five-minute life assessment to find out if this applies to you.

Let’s Work Together to Address Your Copper Toxicity Symptoms

Functional nutrition offers a holistic approach to addressing copper toxicity by focusing on the root causes and individualized solutions. Through targeted dietary changes, supplementation, and lifestyle modifications, functional nutrition aims to rebalance copper levels in the body. 

By identifying any underlying factors contributing to copper overload, such as genetic predispositions or environmental exposures, I will tailor a comprehensive plan to address these issues. If you’re interested in exploring how functional nutrition can help you manage copper toxicity and achieve optimal health, I invite you to schedule a free consultation. 

This consultation will provide you with valuable insights into how a personalized nutrition plan can make a positive impact on your well-being!