Could you be iron deficient or even anemic due to a lack of copper?
The answer is a resounding yes. Let’s take a look at how copper influences iron absorption, metabolism, transport and storage.
Some people claim you only need to take a bunch of iron and that will cure your iron deficiency and others claim taking iron is toxic and the only reason for iron deficiency on lab tests is because you don’t have enough copper.
Having looked at 10,000 blood panels, I can assure you that neither are correct. Both copper and iron are essential minerals that play a vital role in supporting optimal bodily function and it is the balance of them that is essential for all things energy and red blood cell formation in the body.
Copper Supports Iron Metabolism
Copper’s role in iron metabolism includes facilitating iron absorption, aiding in iron transport, and regulating iron storage and release.
Iron absorption is enhanced by copper, as copper-containing enzymes like ceruloplasmin facilitate the release of iron from intestinal cells so that it can be taken up by the bloodstream.
Without sufficient copper, iron uptake into the blood will be compromised.
Copper also plays a critical role in iron transport and utilization. It is great to absorb iron, but if you can’t move it and use it, you are going to end up with all the symptoms of iron deficiency even though your iron intake is sufficient. Ceruloplasmin, a copper-containing protein, helps oxidize iron from its ferrous form to its ferric form. This simple step enables iron to bind with transferrin—a protein that transports iron in the bloodstream. Free floating iron in the blood is toxic, so it is imperative that iron hooks up with transferrin.
Additionally, copper is involved in regulating iron storage and release within cells. The most consistent marker of iron status is the protein ferritin. Iron is stored in the protein ferritin for later use. Through the activation of ferroxidase enzymes, copper ensures proper iron storage in ferritin. Copper deficiency can disrupt iron accumulation or impair iron release from ferritin by causing a reduction in the ferroxidase enzymes.
Maintaining a balance between copper and iron levels is crucial for optimal iron metabolism.
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A Balance of Copper and Other Minerals
Both copper deficiency and copper excess can disrupt iron homeostasis. Copper deficiency can hinder iron absorption and utilization, leading to iron deficiency anemia. Conversely, excessive copper levels can interfere with iron metabolism and contribute to iron overload disorders.
Whenever we look at mineral deficiencies, it is always good to look at the other minerals that are in close relationship with the one we have found to be deficient. Optimally balanced minerals are key to our health and vitality.
This is why whenever I think a patient may be iron deficient I also check copper, zinc, B12, folate, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, thyroid, along with a full iron panel at a minimum. Check out these videos for answers to frequently asked iron questions.
