Too Much of a Good Thing? Overloading on These 3 Nutrients Can Harm Your Brain

In our quest to be healthy, it is possible to have too much of a good thing.

Photo by Ashim D’Silva on Unsplash

Many nutrients influence neurotransmitter activity and brain function, but not always for the better. Copper, folic acid, and iron are three important, beneficial nutrients that can be harmful to your body and brain. Here’s how.

Copper

Copper is an essential nutrient that plays a role in a number of biological systems. Copper helps the cells of your body have structural and functional integrity. It also helps your cells produce energy, signal to one another, reproduce, and grow. Copper is a key defense against cellular oxidation and radiation. It helps form pigment and strengthens the connective tissues in your body.

Photo by Sigmund on Unsplash

Copper is a critically important nutrient for the human body. So how can you get too much of it?

Copper toxicity is a condition known as copperiedus and occurs when your plasma copper levels exceed 140 micrograms per deciliter. Common ways to develop copper toxicity include eating acidic foods cooked in…