​​Vegan RD for the Animals

References for all of the nutrient pages can be found at the bottom of the Nutrition Facts page. Click here.

​Copper

How Much Copper Do I Need?


  • RDA for Adults is 900 mcg/d

  • Upper Safe Limit for Adults is 10,000 mcg/d


Why Do I Need Copper?


Copper is a part of several different enzymes that are needed to:


  • Absorb and use iron

  • Manufacture collagen and heal wounds

  • ​Transport electrons for energy production

  • Act as an antioxidant

  • Synthesize melanin and neurotransmitters


Vegan Sources


  • Copper is found in whole grains, nuts, legumes, seeds and mushrooms


Deficiency Symptoms


  • Anemia

  • Skeletal abnormalities

  • Hair and skin depigmentation


Toxicity Symptoms


  • Nervous system disorders


Notes


  • Copper deficiency is rare and getting adequate copper is not a concern when following a vegan diet

  • Following a vegan diet may offer some protection against getting too much copper as Dr. Greger discusses in this video:


Dietary Theory of Alzheimer's​