From the Guidelines
To treat zinc deficiency in the presence of high copper levels, consider taking 30 mg of elemental zinc daily, while maintaining a ratio of 8- to 15-mg zinc to 1-mg copper, and monitor both zinc and copper levels after 3 months, as recommended by the British Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society guidelines 1. When treating zinc deficiency with high copper levels, it is essential to consider the inverse relationship between zinc and copper absorption.
- The guidelines suggest starting with 15 mg d−1 zinc, which may be contained within the multivitamin and mineral supplement, but for severe zinc deficiency, a higher dose of 30 mg d−1 zinc may be necessary, as suggested by Topart et al. and Homan et al. 1.
- It is crucial to maintain a ratio of 8- to 15-mg zinc to 1-mg copper to avoid zinc-induced copper deficiency, as recommended by the British Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society guidelines 1.
- The complete multivitamin and mineral supplement, such as Forceval, contains 2-mg copper and 15-mg zinc, and doubling up on the dosage may be sufficient in some cases to meet the additional requirements 1.
- Monitoring both zinc and copper levels is essential, especially when giving additional zinc supplements, to avoid zinc-induced copper deficiency and to ensure that the zinc-copper balance is restored 1.
From the Research
Treating Zinc Deficiency with High Copper Levels
- Zinc deficiency can be treated with zinc supplementation, but high doses of zinc can lead to copper deficiency 2, 3.
- Copper deficiency can cause anaemia, neutropenia, and irreversible neurological symptoms 2, 3.
- It is essential to monitor copper levels when prescribing zinc supplements to avoid copper deficiency 2, 3.
- Zinc glycinate and zinc gluconate are better absorbed than other forms of zinc, making them potential options for treating zinc deficiency 4.
- Dietary components, such as protein, peptide, polysaccharide, and polyphenol, can improve zinc utilization rate and maintain zinc homeostasis 5.
Risks and Considerations
- High doses of zinc can inhibit the absorption of copper and iron, leading to copper deficiency and anaemia 6.
- Zinc toxicity can adversely affect the lipid profile and immune system, and its treatment depends on the mode of zinc acquisition 6.
- Medications like diuretics and angiotensin-receptor blockers can cause zinc deficiency, and oral zinc supplementation may decrease the absorption of certain drugs 6.
- Awareness of copper deficiency is crucial when prescribing zinc supplements, and plasma copper levels should be monitored regularly 2, 3.