Question: I heard that copper may promote Alzheimer's, and it is in every multi-vitamin I can find. I am 58 years old and my father died from Alzheimer's. Is this a real threat?
Dr. Hibberd's Answer:
Copper is an essential component of many body proteins. It functions as a component of enzymes, is important for bone formation, and essential for the formation of red blood cells.
Copper is bound and transported within copper proteins in our bodies. Unbound (free) copper ions are toxic. Principal sources of dietary copper are organ meats, shellfish, whole grain cereals, mushrooms, peas, cocoa, nuts, dried fruits, and vegetables. While copper exposure may indeed play a role in Alzheimer’s disease, this has not been confirmed by any evidence-based data, except in clear cases of chronic toxic exposure.
Alzheimer's disease seems to be associated more strongly with exposure and consumption of food cooked, prepared, or stored in aluminum containers.
Most adult multivitamins contain 2 milligrams of copper which is well within the upper limit of the recommended daily intake of 5-10 milligrams daily (1-3 milligrams max in children). Children should not take adult multivitamins.
Our bodies have built in genetic mechanisms for managing mild dietary excesses of copper. Toxicity, which includes cirrhosis in children, is seen when foods stored or boiled in copper or brass vessels are consumed, or when compresses saturated with a solution of a copper salt are applied to large areas of injured or irritated skin.
Feel comfortable taking your multivitamin daily, but remember that multivitamins are intended as a supplement for deficient diets and not as a general replacement for everyone. You are wise to check the labeling of your medications.
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