GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
The richest sources of vanadium are fish,
black pepper and dill seed, however the mineral can also be found in whole grains, meats and dairy
products.
ROLE IN ANTI-AGING:
Vanadium is needed for cellular metabolism
and in the formation of bones,
cartilage, and teeth. It is required
for normal growth and development, and mimics the action of
insulin on glucose uptake and metabolism in fat cells,
increases glucose metabolism and conversion into lipids, activates glycogen synthesis, and improves glucose tolerance and the efficiency of
insulin in the muscle cells. Thus, vanadium may be
beneficial to diabetics. Some research has shown that
vanadium also helps to lower blood
pressure.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:
Little is known at present, but high blood
pressure and hardening of the arteries have been implicated.
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
More needs to be known before recommendations
can be made. No RDA has been established. The average diet is estimated to provide
15-30mcg of vanadium a day.
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL:
established
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Vanadium can cause mild gastrointestinal intolerance. High blood levels of vanadium have been
associated with manic-depressive disorders.
SOLUBILITY:
water
