Copper nutriture, bioavailability, and the influence of dietary factors
Turnlund, J.R.
Journal of the American Dietetic Association 88(3): 303-308
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-8223 PMID: 3279098 Document Number: 324801
Copper is known to be an essential nutrient for man, but a recommended dietary allowance has not yet been established. A safe and adequate range of intake was established in 1980 for Cu and 5 other trace elements. The range for Cu, 2 to 3 mg daily, is higher than the usual dietary Cu intake of many persons in the USA. On the basis of balance studies, a requirement of 1.3 mg daily has been suggested. Recent data on Cu intake and bioavailability should aid in re-evaluating the dietary Cu requirement. Cu deficiency symptoms have seldom been observed in man except in unusual conditions, such as in patients receiving parenteral nutrition. Interactions between Cu and other dietary components may alter Cu status, but the impact of those interactions is not yet well understood. Dietary factors that may affect the bioavailability of Cu include the levels of Cu, zinc and molybdenum in the diet; iron deficiency; ascorbic acid intake; intake of carbohydrates, including fructose, glucose and starch; and fibre and phytate intakes. Some drugs may also affect Cu bioavailability.