Earthbound Elements: Copper

hen it comes to minerals, copper doesn't always get the attention when it comes health. But listen up, gentlemen, this shiny metal isn't just for conducting electricity and a cheap gold alternative for your woman's anniversary gift.

Sure, you could stick to only your usual routine of grunting at the gym and eating your weight in protein powder, but where's the fun in that? Why not spice things up and add a little bit of copper to your health regimen? Let's give copper the attention it deserves and add this rugged metal ripped from the earth a try.

The Importance of Copper

Copper plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, making it an integral part of holistic health. It is involved in the production of red blood cells, helps maintain healthy bones, and plays a role in the absorption of iron. Copper also acts as an antioxidant, helping to combat harmful free radicals in the body. In traditional healing practices, copper has been used for its antibacterial properties and ability to promote overall wellness. So not only can copper help with specific health concerns, but it also supports the overall balance and well-being of the body. [1] Copper can assist with areas such as:

| Reduce Inflammation |

Copper has natural anti-inflammatory properties, which means it can help ease inflammation in the body. This can be particularly useful for people with conditions like arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pain. Who needs painkillers when you can just slap some copper on it?

| Improve Circulation |

Copper promotes the production of red blood cells, which helps improve circulation. Better circulation means better oxygenation of the body's tissues and organs.

| Boost Immune Function |

Copper plays a crucial role in immune function by helping the body produce white blood cells. White blood cells are responsible for fighting off infections and diseases.

| Increase Energy Levels |

Copper is involved in the production of many enzymes that play a role in energy production. By supporting these processes, copper can help increase energy levels and reduce fatigue.

| Enhance Cognitive Function |

Copper is essential for proper brain function. It helps with the production of neurotransmitters, which are responsible for transmitting messages between brain cells. By promoting healthy brain function, copper may help improve cognitive function, memory, and concentration.

| Improve Skin Health |

Copper is important for the production of collagen, a protein that helps keep skin firm and elastic. It also has antioxidant properties that can help protect the skin from damage.

| Reduce Stress |

Copper is an important nutrient for the nervous system. It helps regulate the production of neurotransmitters, which can impact mood and stress levels. By promoting a healthy nervous system, copper can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Where to Get Copper

One of the best and primary ways to add copper to your life is by consuming it. But before you go raiding your local hardware store for copper pipes and wires, know that if you overconsume copper, it may create an negative and even toxic effect of what you are trying to achieve, such as turning into the "Copper Surfer". As always, seek the guidance of a healthcare professional if taking new supplements. In healthy human adults, the necessary copper daily dietary intake is 1–2 mg. [2]

Here are some basic foods that you can add into your meal rotation to increase your overall copper intake:

1. Beef Liver
2. Dark Chocolate (70%+)
3. Cashews, Hazelnuts, or Almonds
4. Chickpeas or Hummus
5. Dried Apricots
6. Spirulina (For You Protein Powder Guys)
7. Shiitake Mushrooms

Copper compounds were prescribed by Hippocrates to treat diseases as early as 400 B.C.

Alternative Ways to Use Copper

Copper isn't only valuable for its presence in dietary supplements and nutrition; it can also offer an array of benefits when used in other ways.

Wearing It:

Wearing copper as a necklace or around your wrist can give a boost to your circulatory and immune systems, allowing white blood cells to speedily travel to infection sites and foster recovery. Copper acts as a cofactor in enzymatic reactions that stimulate endothelial growth, a vital factor in tissue repair and healing.

Drinking From It:

Imagine drinking from a copper goblet back in the day in the Far East, and the water inside tastes so incredibly good, you feel like you're getting purified with each sip. It's not just in your head, my friend. Science has proven that copper has an oligodynamic effect - that's a fancy way of saying it can eliminate bacteria. Copper can also go medieval on viruses, algae, mold, spores, and fungi, keeping them at bay and making sure your water stays fresh for longer. [3] As with wearing it make sure to find quality products that aren't just coated in copper.

Challenge:

Commit to becoming a master of your health and using natural elements to aid in that journey. See the Objective(s) for ideas.

Objective(s):

1. Determine your overall copper intake and find ways to increase it via your daily diet.
2. Research and find ways to add copper to you everyday life.
3. Consider using copper cups beyond for your Moscow Mules. Make sure to find pure copper instead of cups that are just coated.
4. Check out the resources from Copper.org and discover all the unique ways it is utilized.
5. Visit local jewelry shops for unique copper pieces to wear.