The foods richest in copper are animal liver, seafood, nuts, seeds and cocoa. The absorption of this microelement in the body is reduced by high levels of iron and fructose, the fruit sugar.
Like zinc, copper is present in all the tissues and organs of the human body, where it plays a role in protecting the cells (including those of the immune system and hair follicles) against oxidative stress.
The copper-related enzyme cytochrome c oxidase is required for the production of energy by the cells of the immune system, so copper helps maintain normal immunity functions.
Copper is also important for normal pigmentation of the hair and skin, as it is involved in the synthesis of the pigment melanin, which protects the hair and skin from damage caused by ultraviolet rays.
It is especially important to get enough copper in summer, when the body produces melanin more actively.
