Sulfur

From Health Facts

Sulfur is a mineral found in the body which is an important component of cysteine, methionine, taurine, and glutathione. It is also a component of biotin and vitamin B1. It is used in the treatment of aluminum, cadmium, mercury, and lead poisoning.^[1].

Contents 1 Food Sources 2 Uses 2.1 Deficiency Symptoms 2.2 Excess Symptoms 3 Assessment Procedure 4 Prescribing Considerations 4.1 Safety 4.2 Drug Interacations 4.3 Other Interactions 5 References

Food Sources

The following foods are natural sources of sulfur. For a more expansive list on food sources of specific nutrients visit Health Canada's Dietary Reference Intakes for Elements or USDA's National Nutrient Database

• legumes
• eggs, milk
• fish, lean beef and other meats, poultry
• garlic
• wheat germ

Uses

The following are the primary uses for sulfur: ^[1]

• Protection against toxic substances
• Arthritis: may reduce the symptoms of arthritis.
• Allergies: Methyl sulfonyl methane has been use to treat allergies.

Deficiency Symptoms

There are no proven symptoms of sulfur deficiency.

Excess Symptoms

Unlikely to threaten life or cause significant symptoms^[1]

Assessment Procedure

There are no available lab tests to detect deficiency.

Prescribing Considerations

• The recommended dosages varies based on age and health status. To determine what your specific requirements are talk to your naturopathic doctor or other trained medical professional.

Safety

• Adults Over 55 Years: No problems are expected.
• Pregnancy: No problems are expected.
• Breastfeeding: No problems are expected.

Drug Interacations

• Drug Interactions include: None are known ^[1]

Other Interactions

• Other Interactions include: ^[1]

• Tobacco - Decreases absorption of sulfur. Smokers may require supplementation.

References

1. ↑ ^{1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4} Griffith Winter (2000) Vitamins, Herbs, Minerals & Supplements: The Complete Guide, Revised Edition, MJF Books'