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🥔 Why Copper Deficiency Happens (and How to Avoid It)
Copper may not be the first mineral that comes to mind, but it’s vital for energy, collagen formation, and keeping your nervous system strong. And yet, as highlighted in today’s lesson “Risk Factors for Copper Deficiency,” it’s easier to become deficient than most people realize.
🔑 Here are some of the main reasons:
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Dietary gaps — Copper-rich foods include organ meats, oysters, cocoa, shellfish, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds (almonds, cashews, sesame). If these foods aren’t a regular part of your diet, your copper intake may be low.
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Too much zinc — Zinc and copper work in balance. Taking high-dose zinc (over 45 mg for more than 1–2 months) without copper can actually drain your copper levels.
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Digestive issues — Copper is absorbed in the small intestine, which means things like low stomach acid, thyroid issues, antacid use, or H. pylori infections can all interfere with absorption.
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Other factors — Even high doses of vitamin C and rare genetic conditions (like Menkes disease) can impact copper metabolism.
👉 The takeaway: it’s not just about what you eat, but also how well your body absorbs and balances minerals.
✨ Explore today’s full lesson in the Mineral Balance course to learn more about keeping your copper levels in check.
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