When you think of copper, what is it that springs to mind? Is it the copper wiring you see on some electrical appliances? Or perhaps you imagine brassy pipes in an otherwise pristine, white bathroom? What might not come to mind at the mention of copper is your child’s health. But copper does, in fact, play a critical role in helping the body to function properly, so let’s find out more about this particular substance. What is it, and why is it so important?

What is copper?

Copper is an essential mineral used by the body to promote the heart’s health, immune health, and overall bone strength. Copper also contributes to energy production and tissue repair. We don’t need a whole lot of copper to function properly, but since our bodies aren’t able to make it on their own, we must get it from the foods we eat. Foods rich in copper include cashew nuts, liver, oysters, and mushrooms, among other foods. So generally speaking, a balanced diet will see a person get all the copper they need.

But what else does copper do for my child’s body?

Copper also promotes brain health, protects bone density, fights cell damage, and assists with collagen production (one of the body’s most important structural components).

So, there’s really no denying its importance!

What happens if my child isn’t getting enough copper?

Copper deficiency has mostly been linked to various heart-related health problems, including ischemic heart disease (when the heart’s arteries become too narrow). They’re also at risk of developing chronic inflammation and high cholesterol, higher blood sugar levels (which can lead to symptoms similar to diabetes), and greater damage to cells.

What is copper, and how much does my child need?

Your child's immunity benefits from copper but what's the NRV.