High Copper Levels and Their Role in Postnatal Depression
Is there a link between high copper and low zinc levels, and postnatal depression or anxiety?
Research suggests there may be. One study found increased copper levels and decreased zinc levels in people with anxiety. After treatment with zinc and antioxidant supplementation, their symptoms improved significantly. This highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between zinc and copper in the body.
Zinc and copper are both essential nutrients with distinct roles. Zinc is needed for many processes required for optimal health, and deficiency may contribute to symptoms such as anxiety, fatigue and poor wound healing.
Copper is required for energy production pathways, iron utilisation and tissue production. It also plays a role in nervous system regulation and brain chemical production. However, copper in excess can be harmful.
Copper toxicity may contribute to symptoms such as anaemia, dementia, diarrhoea, fever and inflammation. Excess copper during pregnancy can potentially increase the risk of growth restriction, pre-eclampsia and certain neurological conditions.
Genetic Conditions and Zinc Deficiency
Some genetic disorders may contribute to zinc deficiency. Pyrrole Disorder is one such condition, where the production of pyrroles is too high. High levels of pyrroles can be detected through urine testing alongside clinical assessment.
Symptoms associated with Pyrrole Disorder and zinc deficiency may include poor dream recall, white spots on nails, low morning appetite and stretch marks. Other symptoms may include paleness, digestive issues and skin concerns. Pyrrole Disorder may also contribute to mood issues, sensitivity to noise or light and dramatic behaviours.
Zinc, Mental Health and the Postnatal Period
Zinc is one of the most important minerals during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It plays a key role in tissue repair, which is relevant for stretch marks, perineal tears and cracked nipples. Over the years, evidence has also suggested zinc may be an essential nutrient for mental health.
In clinical practice, many practitioners have seen improvements in anxiety and depression with zinc supplementation as part of a broader treatment protocol. This is not surprising, considering zinc is required for the synthesis of serotonin and GABA - two brain chemicals associated with happiness and calm.
A systematic review found evidence suggesting potential benefits of zinc supplementation for depression. Another study found a 24% lower serum zinc level on the third day postpartum, a time commonly referred to by health professionals as the “third-day blues.”
Copper as a Zinc Antagonist
Copper and zinc antagonise each other. This means high copper levels may lower zinc levels, and high zinc intake can lower copper levels. Because they compete for absorption, they should not be taken at the same time.
High-dose zinc supplementation may help balance elevated copper levels, but only under professional supervision.
Causes of High Copper Levels
Copper levels may rise for several reasons. Some people may be exposed to high copper levels through drinking water, as it can leach from copper pipes. Copper levels in the blood may also increase due to liver disease or haemochromatosis (a condition where the body absorbs too much iron). An overactive thyroid may also contribute to elevated copper levels.
Symptoms of copper deficiency may include anaemia, low white blood cell count (neutropenia), osteoporosis, paleness and loss of hair colour. Symptoms of copper toxicity can include abdominal pain, diarrhoea and vomiting. Severe toxicity may lead to heart and kidney failure, liver damage, neurological issues and even death.
Wilson’s Disease and Copper Levels
Wilson’s disease is a genetic disorder that can lead to high copper levels. Symptoms may include anaemia, low white blood cell count, abdominal pain and dark urine. Other symptoms may include pale stools, low appetite and jaundice.
People with Wilson’s disease may display Kayser–Fleischer rings - brown rings around the eyes. Wilson’s disease may also contribute to various mental health concerns.
Copper Levels in the Pre and Postnatal Period
Elevated copper levels may be of concern during pregnancy and after birth. Copper naturally rises during pregnancy as oestrogen levels increase. One study found an association between higher serum copper levels and postnatal depression.
Supplementation in Pregnancy
More research is clearly needed in this area, and it is important to speak with your health practitioner about supplementation during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
For these reasons, none of the prenatal vitamins in the NaturoBest range contain copper. However, they do contain zinc citrate, a highly bioavailable form of zinc.
Conclusion
The relationship between copper and zinc is especially important during pregnancy and the postnatal period. While both minerals are essential, excess copper combined with low zinc may contribute to mood changes, including postnatal depression and anxiety. Understanding your levels and potential sources of imbalance can be an important step in supporting wellbeing.
Because zinc and copper compete for absorption, supplementation should always be guided by a qualified practitioner. This is why NaturoBest prenatal formulas exclude copper and include a bioavailable form of zinc. If you are experiencing mood changes or suspect a mineral imbalance, speak with your healthcare practitioner for personalised support.
