Foods high in Copper
Trace mineral involved in iron metabolism and connective tissue.
About Copper
Copper helps the body absorb and use iron, builds connective tissue, and is part of antioxidant enzymes that protect cells from oxidative damage.
Shellfish, organ meats (especially liver), nuts, seeds, mushrooms, and dark chocolate are the densest sources. Most well-fed adults easily meet the modest RI of 1 mg/day from a varied diet.
Both deficiency and excess are rare in healthy adults eating varied diets. Chronic high-dose zinc supplementation can cause copper deficiency by competing for absorption, another reason to be cautious with zinc pills.
Top food sources of Copper
Top food sources are temporarily unavailable. The rest of the page still has what you came for, please try again shortly.
Common questions about Copper
- How much copper do I need?
- UK adult RI: 1 mg/day, easily met from a varied diet.
- What foods are highest in copper?
- Shellfish, organ meats (especially liver), nuts, seeds, mushrooms, and dark chocolate.
- Why does copper matter?
- It helps the body absorb iron, builds connective tissue, and is part of antioxidant enzymes.
- Can zinc supplements affect copper?
- Yes, chronic high-dose zinc supplementation can cause copper deficiency by competing for absorption. Another reason to be cautious with zinc pills.