Low copper levels can lead to poor eyesight, weak and brittle bones, and increased susceptibility to illness due to a weakened immune system.
The body needs copper to maintain healthy metabolism, promote strong bones, and ensure the nervous system functions properly. Possible causes of copper deficiency include: surgery affecting the digestive tract, and consuming excessive amounts of zinc which can interfere with copper absorption. Below are signs of copper deficiency.
Tired
Copper deficiency can be one of the many causes of fatigue and weakness. When copper levels are low, the body may absorb less iron, which can lead to iron-deficiency anemia. A diet rich in copper can help correct this.
Frequent illness
People who get sick frequently may be deficient in copper. This is because when copper levels in the body are low, it becomes difficult to produce immune cells, significantly reducing the number of white blood cells and affecting the body's ability to fight infections.
Weak and brittle bones
Osteoporosis, which is related to age, can also be caused by a copper deficiency. This micronutrient encourages the body to create more bone cells, which help reshape and strengthen bone tissue. An analysis of eight studies involving more than 2,100 people showed that those with osteoporosis had lower copper levels than healthy adults.
Copper deficiency can lead to poor eyesight and affect memory. (Image: Freepik)
Memory problems
A lack of copper can make learning and memorization more difficult. This substance plays a crucial role in brain function and development. One study showed that people with Alzheimer's disease have 70% less copper in their brains than those without the disease.
Sensitive to cold
People with copper deficiency may be more sensitive to temperature. Copper, along with other minerals like zinc, helps maintain optimal thyroid function. When copper levels in the blood are low, the levels of this thyroid hormone decrease. As a result, the thyroid gland does not function effectively. It is estimated that more than 80% of people with low thyroid hormone levels feel more sensitive to cold temperatures.
Vision loss
Vision loss is a serious condition that can occur with long-term copper deficiency. Copper also helps ensure the nervous system functions properly. Copper deficiency can cause nervous system problems, including vision loss.
Vision loss due to copper deficiency is more common in people who have undergone gastrointestinal surgery, such as gastrectomy, because it reduces the body's ability to absorb copper. While there is some evidence that vision loss due to copper deficiency may be reversible, other studies have shown that vision does not improve after increasing copper intake.
Le Nguyen (According to Healthline )
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