Nutrition & bone health
Key minerals for bone health — copper
by Dr. Susan E. Brown, PhD
Like manganese, copper is an essential trace mineral that has only recently been
found to play an important role in bone health maintenance. This role is still not
fully understood, but we do know that by virtue of a copper-containing enzyme called
lysyl oxidase, copper aids in the formation of collagen for bone and connective
tissue and contributes to the mechanical strength of bone collagen fibrils
— the long thin strands of proteins that cross-link to one another in the
spaces around cells.
Copper also helps inhibit bone resorption through a copper- and zinc-containing
antioxidant called superoxide dismutase. This antioxidant neutralizes superoxide
radicals produced by the bone-breakdown cells called osteoclasts during
bone resorption.
Again, as with manganese, inadequate copper levels have been associated with the
development of osteoporosis. And
as with so many other minerals, copper excretion from the body is increased on a
diet high in sugar, other sweeteners like fructose, and refined flour. Some researchers
have suggested that even lactose (milk sugar) could interfere with copper metabolism,
making high dairy intake less than ideal for copper utilization. With our penchant
for sugar, refined flour, and dairy, it’s not surprising that copper is among
the minerals most often deficient in the American
diet.
Return to table
Our Personal Program is a great place to start
At the Center for Better Bones we promote an all-natural approach to bone regeneration
and repair that includes nutrition, diet, exercise, and lifestyle guidance. Our
Personal Program is a convenient, at-home version of this approach.
- To assess your fracture risk and the health of your bones, take our free, on-line
Fracture Risk and Bone Health Profile.
- To learn more about the guided, at-home Program we have developed with America’s
premier women’s health clinic, Women to Women, go to
The Personal Program for Better Bones.
- For more information about the at-home program for Better Bones, please call The
Personal Program toll-free at 1-877-200-1269.
Original Publication Date: 04/11/2000
Last Modified:
04/14/2010
Principal Author: Dr. Susan E. Brown, PhD