Sulfur – Protein’s Mineral Partner

Sulfur is an important part of several amino acids (the building blocks of protein), and it performs a number of important enzyme reactions and protein synthesis functions. It is necessary to the production of collagen, which is the protein found in connective tissues. This collagen production property makes sulfur an important mineral for athletes, as well as for people simply trying to lose weight or boost their fitness level.

Sulfur also plays an important role in the maintenance of healthy skin, hair and nails. It helps nails keep their hardness and helps skin keep its elasticity. It also helps hair keep that beautiful shine.  In addition, sulfur plays a vital role in the oxidation and reduction reactions that allow cells to utilize oxygen effectively. This important role helps to aid cell activity as well as brain function.
 

Food Sources
Sulfur is easily available in high protein foods such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, milk and legumes. Egg yolks are one of the best sources of sulfur in the diet. In addition, sulfur is found in garlic, onions, cabbage, Brussels sprouts and turnips.

Recommended Dosage
No Reference Daily Intake (RDI) has been established. Most people will find it quite easy to meet their daily requirements through a nutritious and balanced diet.

Supplements
There are no specific supplements for sulfur, but it is part of some multivitamin preparations.

Side Effects & Toxicity
There is little concern about toxicity in the body. There have been no established toxicity levels for this mineral.

Symptoms of Deficiency
The only documented incidents of deficiency has occurred with people whose only source of food was grown in sulfur depleted soil. There is no risk of deficiency for the average person.