Mitolife Radio

Your Sunburn Could be a Copper Deficiency

Mitolife Radio with Matt Blackburn 2025-07-18

Summary

For several years I was focusing heavily on the relationship between copper and iron while neglecting and even demonizing zinc. Given that our body stores a much higher concentration of zinc than copper, that was not a wise approach. Over the years I have learned that even in the case of a copper deficiency, one should still supplement zinc in addition to copper, and the clinical research clearly proves this. It is very easy to get caught in the anti-supplement fear campaigns that big influencers spread and I have since repented for my sins in this regard. In this episode I share my experience taking high dose zinc for the past few years and the copper deficiency symptoms I have noticed recently, specifically in relationship to ultraviolet light exposure from sunlight.

Key Points

  • Copper's critical role in enzymatic processes and metabolism
  • Impact of light exposure on health and circadian rhythm
  • Zinc deficiency prevalence and supplementation protocols
  • Link between mineral status and sun sensitivity

Key Moments

Copper deficiency may reduce red light therapy response

Copper is essential for cytochrome C oxidase function in mitochondria. Without adequate copper, the response to red light therapy is likely diminished.

"If the CCO is dysfunctional due to inadequate copper, we could assume a reduced response from red light therapy."

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