Copper is a trace mineral that is essential for bone health, connective tissue health, cardiovascular health, lipid metabolism, neurological health, and skin health.* It's also a component of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase. Because copper and zinc compete with each other for absorption, an individual taking a high amount of zinc (for example, 50 mg daily for an extended time period) can develop a copper deficiency. A copper deficiency can render many cell types, including fat cells and blood cells, more susceptible to oxidation.* For this reason, zinc supplementation should be accompanied by copper supplementation.* In a clinical setting, copper supplementation protected red blood cells from oxidation.* Thorne's Copper Bisglycinate provides an optimally absorbed form of copper.*