The Hidden Link Between Copper Deficiency and Mental Health
It’s no secret that America is renowned for being the pill-popping “Prozac Nation,” trying to medicate its problems with a host of so-called “miracle drugs” that constitute a billion-dollar industry.
But you may be surprised to learn that mood disorders—in addition to a host of other conditions like anxiety, behavioral disorders, ADHD, and more—are not always caused by the common environmental or mental issues doctors often associate them with. In fact, new reports find that many emotional or behavioral problems are largely due to varying imbalances in our bodies.
Why Copper Is Often Ignored as a Vital Nutrient
You might be familiar with the large collection of daily “essential nutrients” listed on everyday food labels.
Among the most common nutrients are elements like calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, zinc, and iron.
What you may not know, however, is that there is another very essential nutrient your body needs—one you almost never see listed along with those other nutrients:
That mineral is copper.
Copper and the Brain: What You Should Know
Copper plays an integral role in ensuring the mental, physical, and chemical well-being of your body and, along with all the other essential minerals and nutrients, is vital for survival. In addition to helping you live a healthy life, new studies have found it also plays an important role in balancing your mood levels, and it may be a huge factor affecting learning disorders—especially ADHD.
Understanding the Biological Role of Copper
To truly understand the essential role of this forgotten metal and its effects on your body, it is important to explore its biological and neurological functions more deeply. Copper is involved in numerous enzyme systems and supports energy production, nervous system health, and neurotransmitter regulation. Without adequate levels, these systems can falter—leading to a variety of physical and mental health challenges.