Sulphur
Sulphur is a major mineral with nutritional and biological implications for the human species. Just after calcium and phosphorus, it is regarded as the most plentiful mineral in the human body. It is found in the skin, muscles, and bones.
You require it for it is an essential constituent of various processes, encompassing cartilage maintenance, detoxification, and food metabolism. The majority of sulphur dietary intake is derived from protein sources, particularly the sulphur-containing amino acids cysteine, and methionine.
Additionally, certain vitamins including thiamine and biotin contain trivial amounts of the sulphur mineral.
Functions Of Sulphur
- Maintains structural integrity-Sulphur is a chief structural element of the connective tissues such as the tendon and ligaments. It is also contained in keratin which is essential for the hair, and nails.It is found in collagen that maintains the structure of the skin.
- Support metabolic functions– It assists in the metabolism of food.
- For the development and repair of DNA-You need sulphur for building and repairing DNA.
- An important component of glutathione-In the liver,the mineral is required for the manufacture of glutathione(made from amino acids and is important for certain body functions such as tissue repair and the manufacture of chemicals).
- Detoxification– Sulphur is important in the metabolism and removal of harmful substances.
Food Sources
- Onions
- Eggs
- Cabbage
- Turnips
- Lettuce
- Broccoli
- Garlic
- Kale
- Beef
- Milk
- Brussel sprouts
- Nuts
- Edible seaweed
- Water-depending on its source; mainly contained in well water
You want to ensure that in as much as most of the sulphur is contained in protein-rich sources such as eggs and meat, that you do not over-consume them due to their potential risk for cardio-vascular disease. Instead complement these sources with an intake of other sulphur sources such as vegetables and nuts.
RDA
At present, it lacks a recommended dietary allowance. Moreover, its risks for deficiency are mainly warranted in extreme protein scarcity, and toxicity, in the case of excessive consumption of protein-sulphur containing supplements.
People At Risk Of Sulphur Deficiency
- Vegans-They have a high susceptibility to sulphur deficiency since their protein sources are limited.The plant sources they depend on may also be grown in sulphur-depleted soil, further limiting their ability to achieve adequate sulphur intake.
- Individuals with poor diet quality-Consuming extremely inadequate portions of protein can predispose one to a sulphur deficit.
Sulphur Deficiency
Sulphur deficiency is not likely because it is found in many sources. However, its very limited intake or restriction can result in:
- Brittle nails
- Itchy skin or scalp
- Headaches
- Gastrointestinal complications
- Depression
- Rashes
- Damaged hair
- Slow wound healing
Toxicity
Toxicity is likely from high intake of sulphur-containing supplements.The probable side effects of high sulphur intake include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Indigestion
- Headaches
Drug Interactions With Sulphur
Sulphur-containing medications e.g. sulfonamide antibiotics-They could increase sulphur levels in the blood when consumed in large doses for extended periods.
Sulphur contributes to many aspects of human health. It provides a critical role in metabolism and structural integrity. While it lacks an RDA, including a varied nutritious diet should ascertain that you obtain it adequately.
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