The Dangers of Copper

Copper is a vital elemental nutrient that is necessary for good health. In fact, it can be found naturally in all plants and animals. The metallic form of copper can also be found in our environment as it occurs naturally there as well. As vital as it is for our bodies to have a certain amount of copper for optimum health, being exposed to too much copper can be detrimental to your health.

What is Copper?

Copper (atomic number: 29, element symbol: Cu) is a ductile metal that is found in nature. It is well recognized for its electrical conductivity and is used in many applications as an electrical conductor. It also features prominently in the building, construction and plumbing industries and is a prime component in numerous alloys.

Besides being one of the most popular metals used by sculptors and other artists throughout the world, it was recently discovered that copper is a biocidal agent. Copper compounds are used for a variety of purposes like treating plants for mildew or as preservatives for leather, fabrics and wood. And of course, pennies made before 1982 were made primarily from copper whereas newer pennies are just coated with the metal.

How am I Exposed to Copper?

The most routine exposures to copper involve coming in contact with it through the air, drinking water and from foods. It can also enter the body through the skin. If your home has copper plumbing pipes, there is a chance that your drinking water may include a high level of copper.

Many lakes and streams are treated with copper to help prevent overgrowth of algae. If you live near a copper smelting plant, there is a good chance your soil has a large amount of copper in it.

Individuals who work in copper mines or in a plant where copper is processed into brass or bronze are also at a high risk for exposure to dangerous levels of copper.

Copper has also been found in 906 of the 1,647 National Priority Sites as determined by the Environmental Protection Agency.

What are the Symptoms of Copper Exposure?

The body needs trace amounts of copper in order to function properly. But too much exposure to copper can cause a number of health problems. For instance, simply breathing in copper can cause irritation to your nose and throat. If you ingest copper orally, it may cause:

While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has claimed that copper is not classifiable as a carcinogen to humans, the truth is it is unknown if copper can cause cancer in human beings. It is also unknown how high level copper exposure affects births. In animals, copper exposure is believed to cause a decrease in fetal growth, but how it affects humans is still up for debate.

How does Copper Enter the Environment?

Copper enters the environment through a number of ways. First, it happens naturally, from decaying vegetation, volcanic eruptions, forest fires and other sources. Then, there are the man-made causes like mining, manufacturing and farming. While copper compounds break down in the open environment, the pure copper particles do not break down and remain behind in our air, food and water.

How do I Test Myself for Copper?

Testing for copper exposure can be accomplished, but the tests usually need to be performed at a laboratory since special equipment is required. Since copper shows up regularly in the body, it is easy to determine if you have too much copper evident. Of course, while the tests can tell you how much copper you have in your body, they cannot determine what harmful effects, if any, you will experience.

Read Dr. Group's Chemical & Heavy Metals Cleanse

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