The American Chemical Society has released a statement encouraging people over the age of 50 to avoid copper and iron intake in order to reduce the buildup of these metals in their bodies. The reason for this is because scientific evidence has linked high levels of these elements to several age-related disorders, including Alzheimer’s and heart disease. The situation is of particular concern because the potential toxicity of copper and iron is not promoted by the medical community, and is virtually unknown to the general public.

It is important to keep in mind that both copper and iron are essential for life, and up to a certain age, should be included in our diets. However, after the age of 50, high levels can lead to damage to our cells.

Copper and iron are both known as transition elements in that they have physical properties that make them useful in the production of energy in our bodies. According to the article, humans have adapted to store these metals during our reproductive years because they play such an important role in human biology. But as we age, the need for these stores becomes less relevant, and their by-products in energy production are damaging free radicals. Free radicals, in turn, have been implicated in a whole host of chronic diseases, particularly those associated with aging like Alzheimer’s disease, arteriosclerosis, diabetes, and cancer.

The element copper is important for the formation of neurotransmitters, energy production and lactose digestion. Though certain amounts are necessary for good health, significant health problems arise when there is too much. High levels of copper can hinder with the metabolism of certain vitamins and minerals. This interference can in turn affect our immune systems, joints, and hormones, leading to chronic health problems. According to some reports, copper toxicity is more common than copper deficiencies, and can be just as serious to your health as mercury and lead poisoning.

Iron is one of the most abundant metals on the planet and a critical part of oxygen transport. Almost two thirds of the iron in our bodies is found in hemoglobin, the protein in our red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout our bodies. Though it is important in human biology, when iron levels get too high, the metal can deposit in certain vital organs, including the skin, liver, heart, and cause significant damage, even leading to death.

In light of these findings, the author of the study is calling for increased awareness about the potential dangers associated with copper and iron. Included in this are preventative measures that might temper levels of both metals in our bodies, including diet modification (which includes less red meat and fewer supplements), avoiding copper pipes, and even donating blood regularly to lower serum iron levels.

If you have questions or concerns, speak with your physician, and visit the website for the Office of Dietary Supplements, a branch of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).