Vanadium
DESCRIPTION:
Found in the body as well as in
foods, vanadium is an ultra-trace mineral. While it is known to
be essential for some animals, it has not been proven to be an
essential mineral for humans.
Vanadium may have a role in building
bones and teeth. It may also be needed for normal growth,
fertility, and lipid metabolism.
Deficiency symptoms in animals
requiring vanadium include growth retardation, bone deformities,
and Infertility. Such deficiency symptoms have not been
established in humans.
Less than 10 µg daily is the
estimated requirement.
Average diet provides 15-30 mcg
daily.
Type II diabetes:
One form of vanadium, vandyl sulfate, may help control glucose
in individuals with non-insulin-dependent diabetes (1).
Safety information is limited.
Synthetic forms of the mineral can be easily toxic. Long-term
safety of large doses (100 mg) of vanadium has not been
established. It is advised to exercise caution and moderation
with use, and to seek medical supervision. Vanadium dust may be
toxic to workers who are exposed to it. High blood levels of
vanadium is associated with mani-depressive mental disorders,
but this information is inconclusive (2).
INTERACTIONS
AND CONTRA-INDICATIONS
Avoid taking vanadium with Chromium
(including multi-mineral formulas featuring both minerals).
Food (mcg/100g)
Parsley 2950
Lobster 1610
Radishes 720
Dill 460
Lettuce 280
Strawberries 70
Sardines 46
Cucumber 38
Apples 33
Cauliflower 9
Tomatoes 4
Vanadium is found in small amounts
of various foods, including seafood, cereals, mushrooms,
parsley, corn, soy, and gelatin.
REFERENCES:
1. Boden G, Chen X, Ruiz J, et al.
Effects of vanadyl sulfate on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism
in patients with non-insulin-dependent Diabetes Mellitus. Metab
Clin Exp 1996;45(9):1130-35.
2. Naylor GJ. Vanadium and manic depressive psychosis. Nutr
Health 1984;3:79-85 [review].
