Gunturu, S; Dharmarajan, TS; ,
Micronutrients (or microminerals) play vital roles in the health and nutrition of older people. Microminerals, or trace minerals, are termed as such due to the low levels present in the diet and similarly low levels in the body. Copper and zinc are two essential microminerals available in the diet; such microminerals or nutrients are required in small amounts of 1–100 mg/day. Trace mineral deficiencies result from use of parenteral nutrition, restrictive or popular diets, and metabolic abnormalities. Copper and zinc are essential elements involved in multiple body functions. Copper is found in food sources, such as legumes, nuts, seeds, organ meats, and whole grains. Total body copper is 100–200 mg, being higher in brain, liver, and kidneys; most of serum copper is bound to ceruloplasmin. Copper deficiency results from major burns, renal replacement therapy, parenteral nutrition, and gastric bypass procedures. Importantly, copper interacts with iron and zinc in the process of intestinal absorption; intake of each element and the body status may influence the absorption of the others. Zinc is a component of various enzyme systems; it is required for protein health, immune function, and wound healing. It is present in meat, sea food, grains, and vegetables. Zinc deficiency occurs from an inadequate diet, inadequate absorption, altered demand, or increased losses. Zinc replacement corrects deficiency in weeks; prolonged therapy may result in toxicity. There appears a relationship between the intake and levels of copper and zinc with respect to cardiovascular health and neurodegenerative diseases.