Little known sulfur is a mineral that makes up about 0,25% of the total body weight. While it plays a vital role in the proteins in the body, small amounts are found in all cells and tissues. Sulfur is a crucial component in hundreds of physiological process in the body, with a few of the main ones discussed below.
Sulfur bonds with the proteins in the body, and these bonds are required for proteins to maintain their shape. Examples in this regard are hair and nails that consist of keratin, which is a tough protein that is high in sulfur – the high sulfur content is borne out by the strong smell when hair is burnt – while proteins with flexible sulfur bonds are found in connective tissue and cartilage.
Sulfur is required for the biological activity of enzymes in the body, as metabolic processes depend on biologically active enzymes.
Sulfur is essential for the production of enough insulin in the pancreas.
The production of collagen in the body depends on sufficient levels of sulfur in order to create healthy skin and hair.
Sulfur forms a crucial part in the operation of the iron/sulfur proteins in the mitochondria, the “battery” of the single human cell.
As the human body does not produce its own sulfur, it should form an essential part of our diet. Fortunately there are ample sources of sulfur to be found:
- Cruciferous vegetables – cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts.
- Alliums – onions, shallots, garlic and leeks.
- Edible stalks and stems – celery, fennel and asparagus.
- Animal products that are rich in protein – beef, chicken, fish and egg yolks.
- Nuts and seeds.
- Dairy products – milk, cheese and sour cream.
- Certain fruits – coconut, bananas, pineapple and watermelon.
Sources:
Minerals: Sulfur. Published online on healthy.net, November 2016.
Major sources of dietary sulfur. Published online on healthyeating.sfgate.com, date not indicated.
The benefits of sulfur – why you need Epsom salt, broccoli and MSM. Published online on Mercola.com on 28 November 2016.
Sulfur for better health? Yes, 10 surprising ways. Published online on healthfree.com, date not indicated.
HEALTH INSIGHT
MARCH 2017
