Sulphur (Sulfur)

Sulphur is a component of the amino acids cysteine, cystine and methionine and of hemoglobin, collagen, keratin, insulin, heparin, hair, skin, nails, among many other biological structures. It is required for the metabolism of several vitamins including thiamine, biotin and pantothenic acid. It is also required for cellular respiration. Sulphur is a component of biotin, insulin, glutathione, thiamine, coenzyme A. It helps in carbohydrate metabolism and helps detoxify by converting toxins to nontoxic forms. Sulphur aids in bile secretion in the liver.

FOOD SOURCES

Most animal proteins, especially eggs. Also garlic and onions, wheatgerm, pulses, green vegetables, seafood, dairy products.

SUPPLEMENTATION

Glutathione, taurine, horsetail, l-cysteine, l-cystine, l-lysine, l-methionine, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), dimethyl sulphonate (DMSO).

SIGNS OF DEFICIENCY

Possibly sluggishness and fatigue. Strict vegetarians who eat no eggs are at risk. Tobacco smoke decreases the absorption of sulphur.

SIGNS OF TOXICITY

None known.

MINIMUM DAILY REQUIREMENT

Not established.