Copper is an essential trace element found throughout the body.
Large amounts of copper can be found in seafood, especially oysters and other shellfish. Nuts, dried legumes, whole grain products, seeds, potatoes, prunes, chocolate and liver also contain copper. People whose homes have copper pipes also obtain significant amounts of copper through their drinking water. It should also be noted that a high intake of zinc interferes with copper absorption. Although small amounts of copper are essential, excess amounts can be toxic.