Vanadium

DESCRIPTION/FUNCTION

• Vanadium is classified as a trace mineral. Apparent role may be in lipid metabolism or reproductive performance. It appears to mimic the action of insulin.

DRI (RDA or AI for Adults)

• None.

MAJOR SOURCES

• Very little is found in food, but some sources include shellfish, spinach, parsley, mushrooms, whole grains.

MAINTENANCE/THERAPEUTIC RANGE

• 10 mcg to 1,000 mcg.

POSSIBLE THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS

• Diabetes

COMMENTS

• Vanadium seems to have some of the properties of insulin. Unfortunately, the amounts sometimes needed to be effective for diabetes approach toxic levels. Vanadyl sulfate is the form most often used in nutritional supplements.

CAUTIONS

• None significant, but avoid if you have kidney problems.