Copper
cupric oxide
Sourced from Taiwan
Non-GMO
Available in: Testosterone Support
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please talk to a healthcare provider.
It is recommended that copper supplementation be paired with high doses of zinc supplementation, since zinc can decrease the absorption of copper.
It is recommended that men have at least 0.9 mg of copper per day, which can come from food or supplements. Having too much or too little can be dangerous for your health.
Copper is not known to have any interaction with medications.
FAQ
What is copper?
Copper is a mineral that is involved in several of the body’s processes. More specifically, copper is an essential trace mineral, meaning that only small amounts are required but that it is vital to the proper functioning of the human body. Copper is necessary for a wide variety of processes including energy production, helping the body process iron, blood vessel formation, immune system functioning, the production of connective tissue and neurotransmitters, and more (1).
Where does copper come from?
Copper can be found in a wide variety of foods including organ meats (particularly liver), shellfish, seeds grains, and a variety of fruits and vegetables. Certain beverages may also contain small amounts of copper (1).
Why is copper included in the Testosterone Support supplement?
Unlike the other main ingredients in Testosterone Support, copper has not been shown to have effects on testosterone or other aspects of male virility.
The reason copper is included in Testosterone Support supplement is that the supplement contains 30 mg per day of zinc. High levels of zinc intake can reduce the amount of copper that is absorbed in the intestines. This means that zinc supplementation is a risk factor for developing a copper deficiency. To help prevent this from occurring, some supplements that contain zinc also include copper (2). Therefore, Ro has included copper in the Testosterone Support supplement to help support overall health.
How much copper is recommended?
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of copper is 0.9 mg per day for men and women over the age of 18. For women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, 1.3 mg per day is recommended. The RDA represents the daily amount of a mineral that is considered sufficient for 97–98% of healthy individuals.
On the other end of the spectrum, the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for copper is 10 mg per day for both men and women over the age of 18. Repeated intake of amounts greater than the UL can lead to poor health outcomes (1).
What are the symptoms of having too little copper?
Copper deficiency is rare but may occur when there is an issue with absorption in the digestive system. Individuals with celiac disease and Menke disease may not absorb enough copper through their intestines. Additionally, zinc can decrease the absorption of copper so individuals who are taking high doses of zinc supplementation may also be at risk for deficiency.
When a copper deficiency is present, it may lead to health problems including (1):
Anemia
Increased risk of infection
Decreased skin pigmentation
Changes in how the body processes cholesterol
Issues coordinating muscle movement
Osteoporosis
Other problems with connective tissues