COPPER

COPPER

Copper is necessary for proper iron absorption, bone growth and the production of RNA in the body's cells. It is also required for the formation of aortic elastin and is thus of crucial importance for the optimum functioning of the heart. The sources of copper are almonds, avocados, barley (jau), beans, beet roots, broccoli, dandelion greens, garlic, green leafy vegetables, lentils (masoor), liver, mushrooms, nuts, oats, oranges, organ meats, pecans, radishes, raisins, salmon, seafood and soybeans. Deficiency of copper is a rare finding, but if present can result in anemia, oedema or one may exhibit glucose intolerance and abnormalities in cardiac functioning. Since copper competes with zinc in the body, too much copper can precipitate a zinc deficiency or vice versa.