What is the role of the microbiome in zinc and copper metabolism?

From the Guidelines

To optimize zinc and copper metabolism, it is crucial to understand the role of zinc in interfering with copper uptake in the gastrointestinal tract, as evidenced by its ability to induce enterocyte metallothionein, which preferentially binds copper and prevents its absorption 1. The microbiome plays a significant role in zinc and copper metabolism, and maintaining a healthy balance of these minerals is essential for overall health.

Key Considerations

• Zinc induces enterocyte metallothionein, which has a greater affinity for copper than zinc, thus preventing copper absorption and promoting its excretion 1.
• The recommended dose of zinc for treating Wilson's disease is 150 mg elemental zinc/day, administered in three divided doses, 30 minutes before meals 1.
• Zinc treatment can generate a negative balance for copper, removing stored copper and potentially acting by inducing levels of hepatocellular metallothionein 1.
• A healthy microbiome, supported by a diverse diet rich in prebiotic foods, can enhance mineral absorption and reduce inflammation, promoting the absorption of essential minerals like zinc and copper.

Dietary Recommendations

• Include zinc-rich foods such as oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and legumes in the diet, aiming for 8-11 mg of zinc daily for adults.
• Incorporate copper-rich foods like nuts, seeds, dark chocolate, and leafy greens, targeting 900 mcg daily.
• Maintain a 10:1 zinc-to-copper ratio to prevent imbalances.
• Consider fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut to enhance mineral absorption by promoting beneficial gut bacteria.

Supplementing Zinc and Copper

• If supplementing, take zinc (15-30 mg) and copper (1-2 mg) together but separate from meals containing phytates, which can inhibit absorption.
• Monitor urinary excretion of copper and zinc to check compliance and treatment efficacy 1. By understanding the role of zinc in copper metabolism and maintaining a healthy balance of these minerals, individuals can support their overall health and reduce the risk of related diseases.

From the Research

Role of the Microbiome in Zinc and Copper Metabolism

• The microbiome plays a crucial role in the metabolism of zinc and copper, with studies suggesting that an imbalance of these trace elements can have significant effects on human health 2, 3, 4.
• Zinc and copper are essential micronutrients that are involved in various biochemical processes, including cellular respiration, DNA and RNA reproduction, and antioxidant defense 4.
• The absorption of zinc and copper is influenced by the microbiome, with certain microorganisms affecting the bioavailability of these trace elements 5.
• An excessive intake of zinc can lead to copper deficiency, as seen in a case study where a 13-month-old girl developed copper deficiency due to excessive zinc gluconate ingestion 3.
• The microbiome can also affect the metabolism of zinc and copper by influencing the expression of genes involved in their transport and regulation 2, 4.

Interactions between Zinc and Copper

• Zinc and copper have a reciprocal relationship, with an imbalance of one affecting the other 3, 5.
• The ratio of zinc to copper in the diet is important, with an optimal ratio necessary to maintain health 6.
• Foods rich in zinc, such as beef and legumes, can also be rich in copper, highlighting the importance of a balanced diet 6.
• The interactions between zinc and copper can have significant effects on human health, with imbalances contributing to various diseases and disorders 2, 4, 5.

Importance of Balance

• A balance of zinc and copper is essential for maintaining health, with deficiencies or excesses of either trace element leading to various health problems 2, 3, 4.
• The microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining this balance, with certain microorganisms influencing the bioavailability and metabolism of zinc and copper 5.
• A diet rich in foods that are good sources of zinc and copper, such as legumes and nuts, can help maintain a healthy balance of these trace elements 6.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the interactions between zinc and copper and the role of the microbiome in their metabolism 5.