Copper is an essential trace mineral, which means your body cannot make it and has to get it from food or a supplement. In small amounts it does real, recognized work: copper supports the normal formation of red blood cells, helps build healthy connective tissue by forming collagen, supports normal energy metabolism, and contributes to normal immune function. Here is what copper does, how much you need, where to get it, and how to be sensible about not overdoing it.
In this article
- The short answer
- 4 things copper supports
- Copper's roles at a glance
- How much copper you need
- Where to get copper
- Frequently asked questions
The short answer
Copper is a trace mineral your body needs in small daily amounts. Its recognized roles are to support the normal formation of red blood cells, to support healthy connective tissue by helping form collagen and elastin, to support normal energy metabolism, and to contribute to normal immune function. You get it from food, and some supplements provide it too. Adults need about 0.9 mg a day, and the upper limit is around 10 mg, so copper is a case where enough is the goal, not as much as possible.
4 things copper supports
1. Normal red blood cell formation
Copper helps your body form red blood cells, the cells that carry oxygen everywhere it needs to go. This is one of copper's most established roles and a big part of why it counts as essential.
2. Healthy connective tissue
Copper helps form collagen and elastin, the proteins that hold connective tissue together. Through that role it supports the structure your skin, tendons, and blood vessels are built on.
3. Normal energy metabolism
Copper is a cofactor for enzymes involved in turning food into usable energy. It supports normal energy metabolism at the cellular level, working quietly in the background of everyday function.
4. Normal immune function
Copper contributes to normal immune function, supporting the everyday workings of the immune system. It is one of several trace minerals the body draws on to keep that system running as it should.
Delivers copper, an essential mineral that supports red blood cell formation, connective tissue, and energy metabolism, alongside chlorophyll for antioxidant support.
Copper's roles at a glance
| Copper supports | What that means |
|---|---|
| Red blood cells | Normal formation of oxygen-carrying cells |
| Connective tissue | Helps form collagen and elastin |
| Energy metabolism | Cofactor in turning food into energy |
| Immune function | Supports normal everyday immune activity |
How much copper you need
Adults need roughly 0.9 mg of copper a day, and the tolerable upper limit is about 10 mg a day. That is a fairly wide window, but it is still a nutrient where balance matters. A serving of Go Nutrients Liquid Chlorophyll provides 2 mg, about 222% of the Daily Value. Because it is a meaningful dose, keep an eye on your other sources: if you already take a multivitamin or a dedicated copper supplement, do not stack them. Our guide to the drops covers this caution in more detail.
Where to get copper
Food is the foundation. Copper shows up in shellfish, nuts and seeds, whole grains, legumes, and dark leafy greens. Most varied diets provide some, but intake can run low for people who eat few of these foods. A measured supplement is a simple way to add a known amount, which is part of what Liquid Chlorophyll does while giving you a pleasant minty green at the same time. To see the full formula, read what is actually in Liquid Chlorophyll.
Frequently asked questions
What does copper do in the body?
Copper supports the normal formation of red blood cells, helps form collagen for healthy connective tissue, supports normal energy metabolism, and contributes to normal immune function.
How much copper do adults need per day?
About 0.9 mg a day, with an upper limit around 10 mg. Aim for enough rather than as much as possible, and count all your sources.
Which foods are high in copper?
Shellfish, nuts and seeds, whole grains, legumes, and dark leafy greens are among the richest everyday sources.
Can you get too much copper?
Yes, which is why the upper limit matters. Do not stack multiple copper supplements, and if you take a multivitamin, factor that in.
How much copper is in Liquid Chlorophyll?
2 mg per 15-drop serving, about 222% of the Daily Value. See the full ingredient breakdown.
Get copper in a green you will actually enjoy
Liquid Chlorophyll delivers 2 mg of copper, an essential mineral, plus chlorophyll for antioxidant support, in a clean minty liquid.
Shop Liquid Chlorophyll →These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This article is for education and is not medical advice.