High levels of copper in the diet can negatively affect zinc absorption. Conversely, zinc can also affect copper, with high zinc intake decreasing copper absorption.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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High Copper Intake's Effect on Zinc:
- Increased copper intake can depress zinc absorption in the body. This happens because copper and zinc compete for the same absorption pathways in the small intestine. Excessive copper can therefore hinder the amount of zinc that's absorbed.
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High Zinc Intake's Effect on Copper:
- Depressed Copper Absorption: High dietary zinc intake can interfere with copper absorption.
- Increased Copper Sequestration: Zinc promotes the production of metallothionein (MT) in intestinal cells. Metallothionein binds to copper, essentially trapping it within the mucosal cell.
- Increased Fecal Excretion: The copper bound to metallothionein is then excreted when intestinal cells are shed. This process effectively reduces the amount of copper that makes it into the bloodstream.
In summary, both zinc and copper compete for absorption, and high levels of one can negatively impact the absorption and utilization of the other. Maintaining a balance of these minerals is crucial for optimal health.
