Nutrients
Copper
Cu
Included in Complete.
Compare membershipsCopper helps your body use iron and build tissue.
Copper is a trace mineral your body needs for energy production, iron metabolism, connective tissue, and healthy nerve and immune function. A blood test can show whether your level is unusually low or high.
Your copper level can shift for reasons beyond diet.
Most copper in your blood travels attached to a protein called ceruloplasmin, which your liver makes. Pregnancy, birth control pills, estrogen therapy, infection, and inflammation can all raise ceruloplasmin, and copper tends to rise with it.
Blood copper doesn't closely track everyday intake, though it does fall when someone is truly low. That's why a single result is best read alongside your other results, your medications, and how you're feeling.
Taking too much zinc over time can lower your copper.
Questions
What can cause low copper?
Low copper is uncommon in people who eat a varied diet. It's more often linked to conditions that reduce absorption, such as celiac disease, or to taking high doses of zinc for weeks or longer. Shellfish, nuts, seeds, whole grains, organ meats, and chocolate are good food sources.
What does a higher copper result mean?
Often it reflects something hormonal or temporary, such as pregnancy, estrogen-containing medication, or recent inflammation. Your clinician will look at it alongside your health history and other markers before deciding whether anything needs follow-up.
What happens if my result is out of range?
Your clinician will usually read it with your zinc, iron, and inflammation results, your medications, and your health history. If you're unsure what to do next, 1:1 longevity coaching can help you plan practical steps.