Low vitamins which metabolize copper. Low minerals which work with copper such as iron and sulfur. Celiac disease or other digestive deficiencies. Progesterone use, including progesterone-based birth control pills. High estrogen levels or estrogen replacement therapy combined with smoking, consumption of excessive green leafy vegetables, or inadequate copper intake.
Copper metabolism is extremely complex.
Copper performs many functions in the body and is therefore involved with many other nutrients to perform these functions. For copper metabolism to proceed correctly, many nutrients are needed. Deficiencies of any of a number of nutrients could result in a functional copper deficiency. Detailed information about how copper is involved in thyroidal and immune system functioning can be found under copper in the Nutrients and Toxics section under Minerals.