Which micronutrient is an example of a substance that is toxic in excessive amounts?

Which micronutrient is an example of a substance that is toxic in excessive amounts?

• A. Iron
• B. Zinc
• C. Copper
• D. Selenium

Answer: (C)

Micronutrients are needed in small amounts, but they can cause harm if consumed in excess. Copper is a prime example because, although essential for enzymes such as ceruloplasmin and cytochrome c oxidase, too much copper disrupts normal metabolism and can lead to serious liver and neurological problems. Conditions like Wilson’s disease illustrate what happens when copper isn’t excreted properly and accumulates in tissues. The risk of toxicity rises with higher intakes, so copper has a well-known narrow safety margin. While iron, zinc, and selenium can also be toxic in high amounts, copper’s toxicity profile is a classic, widely recognized demonstration of how an essential micronutrient becomes harmful when overconsumed, which is why it’s identified as the example here.

Micronutrients are needed in small amounts, but they can cause harm if consumed in excess. Copper is a prime example because, although essential for enzymes such as ceruloplasmin and cytochrome c oxidase, too much copper disrupts normal metabolism and can lead to serious liver and neurological problems. Conditions like Wilson’s disease illustrate what happens when copper isn’t excreted properly and accumulates in tissues. The risk of toxicity rises with higher intakes, so copper has a well-known narrow safety margin.

While iron, zinc, and selenium can also be toxic in high amounts, copper’s toxicity profile is a classic, widely recognized demonstration of how an essential micronutrient becomes harmful when overconsumed, which is why it’s identified as the example here.