Inherent Nutrition

Topics covered:

• What is sulfur?
• What does sulfur do for us?
• What types of foods contain sulfur?
• What is the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA)?
• Are there health risks associated with sulfur?
• References

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What is sulfur?

Sulfur is an essential micro-nutrient (macro-mineral). Sulfur is a component of all proteins and can be found in many vitamins.

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What does sulfur do for us?

Sulfur is needed for metabolic, respiratory, and enzyme processes. Sulfur can be found in our hair, skin, and nails and is also used in building collagen and cleaning out our blood. Sulfur may reduce the onset of arthritis.

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What types of foods contain sulfur?

Sulfur can naturally be found in foods such as garlic, whole-grains, nuts, legumes, meats, eggs, vegetables and some fruits.

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What is the minimum Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA)?

No RDA has yet been set for sulfur.

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Are there health risks associated with sulfur?

Sulfur deficiency leads to brittle nails, hair loss, arthritis, skin disorders, varicose veins and high blood sugar.

*You will not have a sulfur deficiency unless you have a protein deficiency.

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References:

1. Boyle, Marie A., and Sara Long. Personal Nutrition, Seventh Edition California, Wadsworth College Learning, 2010.
2. “Minerals.” U.S. National Library of Medicine. March 9, 2009. Retrieved May 31, 2011 <http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus>

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Disclaimer

Reasonable care has been taken in preparing this document, and the information provided herein is believed to be accurate. However, this information is not intended to constitute an “authoritative statement” under Food and Drug Administration rules and regulations.

General Safety Advisory

This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is important to seek the advice of a physician about any medical condition or symptom. It is also important to seek the advice of a physician, registered dietitian, pharmacist, or other qualified health professional about the appropriateness of taking dietary supplements and their potential interactions with medications.