Vanadium is a rare, silver- white metallic element. It is present in the human body in minute quantities. During recent research on laboratory animals, it has been identified as an essential element. The implications of these findings in human nutrition are not fully known.
Functions of Vanadium in the body
Vanadium helps in the metabolism of cholesterol and sugar in the body, thereby preventing the occurance of heart attacks. Vanadium deficiency in humans may lead to high cholesterol and triglyceride levels and increase susceptibility to heart disease and cancer. Vanadium compounds improves cardiac performance and smooth muscle contraction.
Sources of Vanadium
Corn oil and peanut oil are good sources of vanadium. Also green beans, cabbage, carrots, tomatoes and garlic have good amounts of this mineral. Buckwheat is an excellent source of vanadium.
Deficiency Symptoms of Vanadium
There is no evidence to show that man suffers from either deficiency or excess of dietary vanadium.
Vanadium Healing Properties
On the basis of experiments conducted on animals, conflicting claims have been made that this trace mineral can prevent or promote dental caries.
Precautions
Vanadium can prove to be toxic if taken in synthetic form.
- Related Topics
- Valvular Heart Disease Causes: Treatment For Heart Valve Disease
- Riboflavin Deficiency Symptoms: Vitamin B2 Deficiency Treatment
- Calcium And Heart Attacks Risk: Calcium Supplements And Heart Disease
- ALDH2 Deficiency Symptoms: Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 2 Deficiency Cure
- Magnesium Sources and Functions: Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency
