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Vanadium - Benefits, Deficiency Symptoms And Food Sources

What is Vanadium ?

Vanadium is a trace mineral that is needed by the human body in small amounts. It appears to have a role in the regulation of sodium and in the metabolism of glucose and lipids.

Uses and Benefits of Vanadium

• Required for glucose tolerance factor.
• Vanadium may be necessary for cellular metabolism and in the formation of bones, teeth, growth, and reproduction.
• Vanadium forms compounds with other biological substances.
• The average human body contains 20 mg. of vanadium, which probably is involved in cholesterol metabolism and hormone production.
• Preliminary reports show that vanadium might protect against the development of breast cancer and might slow down the growth of tumors.
• When used in combination with Chromium , it is found to be beneficial in dealing with mineral deficiencies found in diabetics and those with hypoglycemia .

Recommended Dosage of Vanadium

There is no established RDA for vanadium. General recommendations are 20-30 mcg per day.

Deficiency Symptoms of Vanadium

• Hypoglycemia, diabetes, increased dental cavities, elevated triglycerides, elevated cholesterol, chest pain, coughing, wheezing, runny nose and sore throat.
• Obesity.
• In animal studies, a deficiency caused growth retardation, bone deformities and infertility.

Toxicity: Extremely harmful to lungs, throat and eyes in high levels. Leads ultimately to death.

Rich Food Sources of Vanadium

Vanadium is found in dill, fish, olives, meat, radishes, snap beans, vegetable oils, and whole grains.

Toxic sources: Used in alloy steels, making rubber, plastics, ceramics and other chemicals. Can also be found in air, food and water supplies.