Copper and Sports Nutrition

Copper is involved in oxygen transport and utilization, enzymatic reactions and the production of noradrenaline. But that's not the only reason why it i important in sports nutrition. Tests have shown that copper increases the bloodstream during intense exercise. Therefore it's not far-fetched that it plays a direct role in high intensive muscular work such as powerlifting, bodybuilding and other strength sports. Most athletes probably do take in enough copper. It's definitely a good idea to monitor your copper intake and avoid deficiency. Find more sports nutrition related topics at nutrition main.

Description: Copper and Sports Nutrition

  • Functions:
    • Copper increases the bloodstream during intense exercise.
    • Oxygen transport and utilization
    • Enzymatic Reactions
    • production of noradrenaline
    • Strengthens blood vessels, bones, tendons, and nerves
    • Promotes blood clotting
    • May protect from damage by free radicals
  • Recommended copper intake:
    • 2 to 5 mg per day

Foods: Copper and Sports Nutrition

  • most nuts (such as brazils and cashews)
  • Seeds (eg: sunflower seeds)
  • chickpeas
  • liver and oysters
  • Natural foods like cereals
  • meat and fish

Advice: Copper and Sports Nutrition

  • 10 mgs or more a day can be toxic and may cause muscle pain, nausea and sometimes case liver damage.
  • Copper deficiency which is extremely rare can cause anemia, reduced growth, increased blood cholesterol levels, brittle or discolored hair, skeletal defects, infertility, high blood pressure or even heart arrhythmia.