Cupric oxide is an oxide of the mineral copper. It is an essential element needed by the body to perform a host of functions.
Cupric oxide is used by specific enzymes to help in the production of energy, to create collagen and elastin, to metabolize iron, and in many functions of the brain and central nervous system. Cupric oxide is found in health supplements such as vitamins and health aid treatments.
Copper is a mineral that is needed in the body in small doses but has the ability to become toxic at high levels. Additional supplements of copper beyond what you should get in your normal diet should be discussed with a doctor.
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Food Sources of Cupric Oxide This mineral is found in many food sources. That’s why copper deficiency is not a common occurrence. Some of these sources are: Organ meats such as liver Shellfish Nuts and nut butters Seeds Whole grain foods such as cereals ... more
This mineral is found in many food sources. That’s why copper deficiency is not a common occurrence. Some of these sources are:
Deficiencies of copper could be caused by certain conditions or diseases that affect how food is absorbed into the body. Malnutrition, surgical removal of parts of the digestive system, diseases of the intestines or kidneys, cystic fibrosis and celiac disease could lead to the need for supplements of cupric oxide.
Web MD indicates there is a connection between copper and iron absorption. It is thought that the body needs copper to use iron effectively.
Iron helps the body to carry oxygen to the cells. Anemia is a lack of enough iron in the red blood cells, and some forms of anemia respond only to copper supplements.
A 2000 study published on the National Institutes of Health’s medical publications website showed a link between elevated levels of copper in the blood and cardiovascular disease. While the study could not prove whether the higher copper levels caused the disease or was an effect of the disease, further studies are being conducted to explain the link.
The Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, states that copper is needed to form collagen, which is used to make bone. Osteoporosis, a disease which causes brittle bones, has been observed in cases of copper deficiency.
A 1994 study published on the National Institutes of Health’s medical publications website showed an increase in bone density only when trace minerals such as copper, zinc and manganese were used in conjunction with calcium supplements.
Further studies are being conducted to explain the exact nature of the relationship between cupric oxide and bone loss.
The Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University lists the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for cupric oxide at 900mcg a day for men and women and less for children. Higher levels can cause acute copper toxicity.
Symptoms include gastrointestinal effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, metallic taste and stomach pain. This can lead to heart damage, damage of the liver and kidneys, coma and death.
Most acute copper toxicity comes from improper containers used for liquid storage or a contamination of drinking water. The US Food and Nutrition Board has set the daily maximum intake of cupric oxide at 10mg, or 10,000mcg, a day. Some people, such as those with sensitivity to copper, will see symptoms of copper toxicity with lower doses.
Cupric oxide has no reported side effects outside of high levels that result in toxicity. Anyone who feels they are experiencing side effects from copper should stop taking the supplement immediately and discuss the side effects with a doctor.
Anyone starting a new regimen of medication or supplements should first discuss it with their health professional and pharmacist. Those who are on a high-zinc diet may need to take a cupric oxide supplement.
Women who are pregnant or nursing should not take an excessive amount of cupric oxide unless instructed by a doctor. Discuss with your doctor all sources of copper that you might be ingesting.
Those with liver disease or diseases of the biliary system, according to the Mayo Clinic, should not take cupric oxide supplements as copper toxicity could result. If you have a condition called Wilson’s disease you should not take a copper supplement.
Cupric oxide is found in vitamins and other health supplements. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended doses, and keep all sources of copper out of the reach of children.
To locate and compare products which contain cupric oxide, use the supplement finder now!
| Overdose Toxicity |
| Contraindicated For Certain Medical Conditions |
| None Known When Taken Properly |
| Copper, Atomic number 29 |
| Anemia |
| Bone Density |
| Energy |
| Heart Disease |
| Osteoporosis |
| Aids In Collagen & Elastin Production |