Many take food supplements and vitamins.
A woman takes a pill (Photo: ShutterStock)
Supplements are big financial and health business and many of us rely on them to get our daily dose of vitamins and minerals.
In addition to the general health benefits, nutritional supplements are also a good way to compensate for any deficiencies we have in the body, which can have long-term health consequences.
But sometimes, taking them can interact with each other - and not in a good way.
This is the case with zinc and copper supplements, which health authorities recommend taking about two hours apart.
Both of these are considered trace minerals, meaning the body only requires small amounts of them.
However, they are still essential for body function.
Zinc helps in DNA formation, cell growth and immune system support.
It is especially important during childhood, adolescence and pregnancy as it helps cells grow and reproduce.
Copper helps produce energy for the body as well as the breakdown and absorption of iron.
It also builds red blood cells and connective tissue, and supports brain development.
Most of us are able to get enough zinc and copper through our diet.
However, some may have difficulty absorbing it, so supplements are required.
If this is the case, these supplements should be taken separately.
Do not take at the same time.
A hand with two balls (Photo: ShutterStock)
"Do not take zinc supplements and copper, iron, or phosphorus supplements at the same time. It is best to space doses of these products two hours apart to get the full benefit of each dietary supplement," the Mayo Clinic states.
"'If you must take copper and also zinc, space the two out by at least two hours," Dr. Cooperman told The Healthy. "High doses of zinc taken long-term (50 mg or more per day for 10 weeks or more) may also cause a copper deficiency."
The Harvard School of Public Health also warns against taking too much zinc.
"Excess zinc can interfere with the absorption of iron and copper," it says.
"High doses can also cause nausea and even vomiting. "That is why it is important not to take zinc supplements unless it is known that the diet is low in zinc-containing foods or a zinc deficiency has been confirmed."
Symptoms of copper deficiency include
fatigue and weakness
weak and brittle bones
Difficulty walking
Memory and learning problems
sensitivity to cold
pale skin
loss of sight
Signs of zinc deficiency include
non-chilling wounds
Unexplained weight loss
diarrhea
lack of vigilance
Decreased sense of smell and taste
Loss of appetite
Open sores on the skin
health
Nutrition and diet
Preventive nutrition
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vitamins
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zinc
iron
copper
diet