Copper

According to research, one of the major functions of copper in our body is to carry out oxidation-reduction reactions which are directly related to the production and handling of free radicals.^[r36] Free radicals damage the cells and are a hazard to our health. Hence, copper must be present in our bodies in the right amount in order to reduce/eliminate the negative effects of free radicals.

A shift in the balance of copper levels might result in neurodegenerative brain disorders. Therapeutic investigations have indicated promising results regarding the use of copper chelation therapy for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s patients.

Research published in the Dalton Transactions highlighted that copper is effective in treating ovarian cancer.^[r35] Studies also suggest that co-treatment with copper significantly decreases toxicities from cisplatin suggesting that copper chelate therapy may be markedly more effective and less toxic than cisplatin therapy.^[r329]

Copper plays an eminent part in maintaining and promoting the health of our nervous system. By the same token, it is ascertained that balanced levels of copper are required for proper nerve signaling. Prof. Chris Chang, in 2016, studied how copper helped nerve signaling by tracking its movement through the nerve cells by using a fluorescent probe. The research team found out that copper acts as the main switch or controller for the nerve signals.^[r34] A high level of copper tends to reduce the efficacy of the neuron signals, which indicates the importance of maintaining the right balance of copper in our daily consumption.

Two of the major structural components that our body depends on are elastin and collagen. Copper is said to have an important role to play in the formation of collagen; which is why this link is being studied by researchers vigorously. Copper has an antioxidant property that is said to help get rid of the free radicals and make skin healthy.^[r33] It is also said to be effective in delaying aging effects on the skin.^[r37]

In the absence of copper, our bodies are unable to replace the damaged tissues and collagen. Such condition can lead to numerous problems, including dysfunctions in the joints.