Chemical Symbol
S
Overview
Sulfur is an essential nutrient in humans. There is about 100 mg of sulfur in the adult body, mostly in the forms of cysteine, cystine, and methionine, three amino acids.
Function
Sulfur is found in tissues high in protein and is a constituent of collagen, the protein in connective tissues, bones, teeth and keratin. Sulfur’s role is to ensure the strength, shape, and hardiness of these tissues. Sulfur also forms bile acids for the digestion and absorption of fat and helps convert fats, carbohydrates and proteins to energy. It helps cells use oxygen and aids in blood clotting.
Forms Available
Recommended Intake
It is suggested that adults include 850 mg of sulfur in their diet every day.
Deficiency
There are no diseases that occur from a sulfur deficiency. As long as one’s diet contains the required amount of protein every day, a sulfur deficiency should not be a concern.
Sources in the Diet
Sulfur is in egg, seafood, beans, milk products, meats and some forms of sulfur are in water, fruits and vegetables.
Recent Studies and Articles
Incorporating sulfur in your diet
http://www.livestrong.com/article/315400-how-to-incorporate-sulfur-in-your-diet/
Benefit of sulfur in the diet
http://www.livestrong.com/article/543668-the-nutritional-benefit-of-sulfur-in-the-human-diet/
Enough sulfur in the diet
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2198910/
