Many times we are aware of the need to focus on a diet that is nutrient-dense and is rich in vitamins and minerals. However, we don't always focus on the trace elements that are body needs, but in smaller amounts than many of the vitamins we find in a standard multivitamin.
In functional medicine, we often look comprehensively at a patient and often this includes assessing for and treating underlying nutrient deficiencies. One of the essential trace elements that can be imbalanced is copper and many times when this gets low, it is hard to replace it. It is also necessary for us to maintain a balance of copper with zinc.
One of the main processes that copper plays in the body is to work with magnesium to help to utilize iron for energy and red blood cell production. Therefore, fatigue and energy issues can come down to this imbalance of copper with other nutrients. If you are having unexplained anemia or fatigue, it is worth adding in proper amounts of magnesium and copper.
But not all supplements are created equal and it is important to take the right ones. I have included a link to my favorites with a discount code: https://us.fullscript.com/protocols/oneagora-copper-magnesium-and-total-nutrient-support
Copper needs to be discussed more, and providers often will not assess and address this possible deficiency because they need to understand the importance of copper. Our latest Episode of Beyond the Basics Health Academy tackles this topic. Listen to Episode 225 on Apple Podcast or Spotify to hear Dr. Meaghan Kirschling and Dr. Stephani Martinson discuss the importance of copper, magnesium, and iron.
You can also find out more about this connection from the book by Morley Robbins "Cu-RE Your Fatigue." In this book, Morley Robbins goes into the physiology of nutrients and the vital role that copper plays.
Linked here is my favorite protocol for nutritional deficiencies. It includes the trace element I like the most with copper and my favorite, magnesium, to take with it. I have had good success with this protocol and complex chronic anemia or fatigue patients.
https://us.fullscript.com/protocols/oneagora-copper-magnesium-and-total-nutrient-support
