Copper (Bisglycinate)

●●●Strong Evidence

An essential trace mineral co-factor for over 30 cupro-enzymes. Deficiency is most commonly caused by excess zinc supplementation. Rarely deficient in a balanced diet.

Effective Dose

1–2mg / day

per clinical evidence

Evidence Level

Strong

Minerals

Mechanism

Cupro-enzyme co-factor — ceruloplasmin, cytochrome c oxidase, SOD1, lysyl oxidase

primary action

Best For

Iron metabolism

Connective tissue, Antioxidant defence, Neurotransmitter synthesis

This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.

What Is Copper (Bisglycinate)?

Copper is required by enzymes including ceruloplasmin (iron metabolism), cytochrome c oxidase (mitochondrial Complex IV), superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD — antioxidant), lysyl oxidase (collagen and elastin cross-linking), and dopamine beta-hydroxylase (norepinephrine synthesis).

How It Works: The Science

Ceruloplasmin oxidises Fe²⁺ to Fe³⁺ for incorporation into transferrin — without copper, iron cannot be properly exported from cells, causing a functional iron deficiency despite adequate iron stores. Lysyl oxidase cross-links collagen and elastin fibres, making copper essential for vascular and connective tissue integrity.

Primary Mechanism

Cupro-enzyme co-factor — ceruloplasmin, cytochrome c oxidase, SOD1, lysyl oxidase

Evidence-Based Benefits

Prevents copper-deficiency anaemia and neuropathy (often caused by high zinc)

strong

Clinical standard — copper supplementation reverses zinc-induced copper deficiency

Supports collagen cross-linking and connective tissue integrity

strong

Lysyl oxidase is copper-dependent — deficiency causes vascular fragility

Dosage Guide

Effective Dose

1–2mg / day

RDA: 900mcg/day. Supplement 1–2mg/day if taking ≥25mg zinc regularly (to prevent zinc-induced depletion). Bisglycinate chelate: best bioavailability. Avoid supplementing copper without reason — excess is toxic.

Safety Profile & Side Effects

Tolerable UL: 10mg/day. Wilson's disease is a genetic copper accumulation disorder — copper supplementation is contraindicated. Excess supplemental copper competes with zinc absorption.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It

Best for

Iron metabolismConnective tissueAntioxidant defenceNeurotransmitter synthesis

Who it's for

Those supplementing high-dose zinc (>25mg/day) — must pair with 1–2mg copper to prevent deficiency. Otherwise rarely needed if diet includes organ meats, shellfish, nuts, and legumes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended dose of Copper (Bisglycinate)?

Is Copper (Bisglycinate) safe?

Tolerable UL: 10mg/day. Wilson's disease is a genetic copper accumulation disorder — copper supplementation is contraindicated. Excess supplemental copper competes with zinc absorption.

How does Copper (Bisglycinate) work?

Who should take Copper (Bisglycinate)?

Those supplementing high-dose zinc (>25mg/day) — must pair with 1–2mg copper to prevent deficiency. Otherwise rarely needed if diet includes organ meats, shellfish, nuts, and legumes.

Related Ingredients

Zinc (Bisglycinate / Picolinate)Iron (Ferrous Bisglycinate)Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

Medical Disclaimer

Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →