Hello,
Thanks for the query to XXXXXXX Forum.

Dietary copper deficiency is a rare condition and it is usually found in people who take milk only and nothing else for food.
Copper is an integral part of many enzymes in our body, so it plays an important role in many enzyme-related activities.

Copper plays an important role in:
-     Iron metabolism,
-     melanin synthesis,
-     central nervous system function
-     joints fibers (elastin & collagen)

So copper is important for our body.
Its deficiency may lead to:
-     anemia,
-     mental retardation ( if in infants)
-     growth retardation.


Diagnosis of copper deficiency made by as follow.
Serum level of copper is 65-89 microgram/dl, if less than 65 microgram/dl i.e. copper deficiency.
If ceruloplasmin level is less than 18 mg/dl i.e. deficiency.
Please note here that copper toxicity may cause liver and kidney failure (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors are the side effects of toxicity)
Dosage of copper can be 45 mg /day, two times in a day. It should be given till serum level of copper reaches up to 65 microgram/dl. 2-3 months are advised if syrup is taken. It should be taken under supervision of a physician.

Dietary sources of copper are:
-     shellfish,
-     liver,
-     legumes,
-     nuts,
- XXXXXXX
-     meats.

Hope I have answered all your queries.
If further any question I will be happy to help.
Good luck.
Dr. HET

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