Copper toxicity from rainwater

Copper is an essential mineral for our bodies. However high levels of copper have been shown to be dangerous to health and linked to some brain degenerative conditions. In my nutritional treatment of patients using hair analysis to assess mineral levels I often find copper toxicity, usually when the body is unable to produce enough of the right proteins to keep the copper in the blood stream and it gets deposited in the tissues including the brain. Toxic effects ensue.

Copper pipes can be a source of copper in the diet, however this is not usually of great concern. But rainwater is often acidic which increases copper levels in the water and its use for drinking can be detrimental. Testing the pH level of any tankwater used for drinking would be a wise idea. It may need treating to neutralize the pH and avoid the effects of copper toxicity.