Sulfur / S
What Is It?
The name ‘sulfur’ is derived from the Latin word ‘sulphurium’. Sulfur is the 10th most abundant mineral and is found in all the body tissues. It is part of the antioxidant glutathione and also an important part of coenzyme A, the enzyme central to energy metabolism, sulfur is also part of biotin and vitamin B1 (thiamine). Sulfur helps maintain oxygen balance necessary for proper brain function as well as working with B vitamins for body metabolism.
Sulfur is part of the structure of two amino acids methionine and cysteine, which are found in hair, skin, nails and joints.
Why Do We Need It?
We need sulfur for antioxidant activity and energy production, keeping normal thyroid function as well as helping the body to utilise iron. In the liver, sulfur stimulates bile production and secretion. Promotes glossy hair, healthy skin and nails, and is needed for formation of the protein collagen and helps prevent arthritis.
Sulphur disinfects the blood, helps the body to resist bacteria, slows the ageing process, detoxifies the body, cleans the arteries, and protects the protoplasm of cells. Its also protects against toxic substances and the harmful effects of radiation.
Deficiency Symptoms
Most people get all the sulfur they require from their food so deficiency, although rare, can include: abdominal pain, acne, arthritis, brittle nails, dry hair, diarrhoea, eczema,fatigue, gastro-intestinal problems, headaches, heart rhythm disorders, hemorrhoids, joint pain, muscle pain, rough skin, slow wound healing and vomiting.
Where Can We Find It?
Alfalfa, asparagus, avocado, banana, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, chives, cashews, coconut, crimini mushrooms, garlic, ginger, green beans, kale, kiwi fruit, leeks, lentils, onions, peas, pineapple, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, spinach, squash, sunflower seeds, sweet potatoes, swiss chard, tomatoes, turnips, walnuts, watercress and watermelon.
Be-Aware
Consuming excessively large amounts of sulfur, can lead to kidney damage, it can inhibit urine production and cause anaemia.
Research
In 2005, Richard Clark began the research study titled “West Coast Organic Sulfur Study” formal known as Cellular Matrix Study - Researchers believe that the absence of organic Sulfur is the mineral deficiency which may be responsible for the greatest increase in disease in North America. Without organic sulfur to enable the intracellular oxygen transfer and maintain the efficacy of amino acids, we begin to degenerate and age long before our biologic clock runs out.
Clinical studies have shown that supplementation may be beneficial in rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.
References
www.organicsulfur-msm.ca
Nutritional Influences on Illness - Mervyn R Werbach
The world’s Healthiest Foods - George Mateljan
Vitamins & Minerals DeMystified - Dr. Steve Blake
Nutritional Healing - Phyllis A. Balch, CNC
Nutrients A-Z Dr Michael Sharon
The Vitamin Bible - Earl Mindell
Disclaimer
Please be aware that we are not Doctors, so it is important BEFORE making any changes that you consult with your GP or Medical Practitioner. The suggestions above are not meant as an alternative to any current medical treatment so please DO NOT stop taking any medications you are on. They are also not an endorsement of their effectiveness, nor a recommendation that they should be followed but instead, provided for informational purposes. None of the information on the Natural Juice Therapy site is intended or implied to treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease.