One of the few
somewhat obscured essential
nutrients, vanadium (V), has relatively recently become recognized as essential
to human health. Not much is known about its role in the body, but deficiency
of this mineral
may be a factor in some forms of
spinal degeneration and ankylosing spondylitis17. It is suspected that it may be
elevating muscle and liver glycogen levels, thus enhancing athletic performance.
However, significant longer-term supplementation is not advisable. There is
evidence suggesting that excess vanadium can cause chemical imbalances in the body, resulting in body
aches, arthritis, weakened immune system, gastrointestinal and other symptoms.
High vanadium levels can also negatively affect individuals suffering from bipolar
order or manic depression.
There is no official DRI (Dietary
Reference Intakes, the most recent set of dietary recommendations
set by the government) for vanadium. Its insufficient intake/deficiency are not
considered to be likely, in general. However, exceptions are possible, and
likely to be found primarily in individuals with high intake of vanadium
antagonists and inhibitors (sugar,
chromium,
calcium,
sodium).
Suggested adequate daily intake for vanadium is
0.1mg, with short-term therapeutic doses of
up to 100mg a day.
Natural vanadium food sources are vegetable oils, fats,
seafood, and others.
