Benefits of Vanadyl Sulfate
Vanadyl sulfate is a trace mineral that is needed in small quantities by your body. It is found in soybeans, mushrooms, shellfish, carrots, oat, cabbage and vegetable oils, such as sunflower, soybean, safflower and olive oil. The primary role vanadyl sulfate has in your body is maintaining your teeth and bones. You may find in over-the-counter supplements, vanadyl sulfate being referred to as vanadium and this form, when consumed, is changed to vanadyl by your stomach acid, according to the book “Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism.” Supplements may not be warranted at this time for vanadyl sulfate, unless recommended by your health care provider.
A woman with healthy teeth is smiling. (Image: AntonioGuillem/iStock/Getty Images)Reduces Cholesterol
Cholesterol production is decreased with vanadyl sulfate. Enzymes are blocked in the liver with use of oral supplementation of vanadyl sulfate, according to the “Handbook on the Toxicology of Metals.” Lowering of cholesterol in diabetic patients is beneficial with elevated glucose levels circulating in their blood. By reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels, your risk of developing cardiovascular disease could be lowered by reducing fat buildup in your arteries that can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Mimics Insulin
Vanadyl sulfate helps to regulate blood sugar levels and possibly be an asset to people with blood sugar regulation problems, such as diabetes, PCOS and metabolic syndrome. Vanadyl sulfate mimics the action of insulin in the body by stimulating your cells to take in glucose faster. In the November 2010 "Pakistan Journal of Biological Sciences," researchers reported on a study looking at vanadyl sulfate's impact on glucose levels in diabetic rats. The rats that were given vanadyl sulfate in their water had stable, functioning insulin-producing cells in their pancreas. This could possibly lead to improved glucose control by maintaining the number of functioning insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
Fights Tuberculosis
Mycobacteria, which causes tuberculosis, may be rendered ineffective by vanadyl sulfate. In the past, vanadyl sulfate was widely used for its antiseptic properties, according to a study reported in 2005's Issue 2 of the "Asian Journal of Experimental Sciences." Vanadyl sulfate has toxic effects to microorganism, plants and humans. Vanadyl sulfate treatment was abandoned when signs of toxicity began in humans with small doses.
Side Effects and Toxicity
Vanadyl sulfate is a trace mineral needed in small quantities by your body. Some side effects that you can experience when increasing your vanadyl sulfate levels include headaches; hand tremors; wheezing; green or bluish tongue; ear, nose and throat irritation, which can be signs of toxicity as well. According to the "Asian Journal of Experimental Sciences" article, absorption of vanadyl sulfate is low in the human digestive tract. Because of the side effects and small amounts needed by the body, recommended daily intakes haven't been established. Small supplemental doses can rapidly raise blood levels of vanadyl sulfate and lead to toxicity. Before starting this supplement, speak with your health care provider about your specific needs and health condition.
