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The Difference Between Vanadium & Vanadyl Sulfate

Vanadium is a metallic element that is considered essential to human survival. It is sometimes called an "ultratrace" mineral because very small amounts are needed. Vanadyl sulfate (molecular formula VOSO4) is the most common compounded form of vanadium, and it is marketed as a dietary supplement. Vanadyl sulfate is often referred to as "vanadium" in health and nutritional contexts. The silver-white metal vanadium is added to steel alloys for strength.

  1. Recommended Intake of Vanadium

    • Humans need very small amounts of vanadium. As of 2001, a Dietary Reference Intake for vanadium had not been set. Forrest Nielsen, a leading researcher of this element, has said that the daily need is only about 10 to 20 micrograms (a microgram is one-millionth of a gram). The body stores vanadium in the teeth and bones.

    Sources of Vanadium

    • Parsley is one source of vanadium.

      Vanadium is found in a number of foods, including dill seeds, parsley, mushrooms, shellfish and some grains. The absorption of vanadium from food is extremely inefficient; only about 1 percent of the vanadium a person eats is absorbed by the body.

    Uses of Vanadium and Vanadyl Sulfate

    • Vanadyl sulfate has been marketed as a remedy for diabetes.

      Vanadyl sulfate is sometimes recommended for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus, because the mineral mimics the effect of insulin in the body. However, the evidence that vanadyl sulfate and other vanadium supplements are helpful in treating human diabetes is limited and controversial.

      Vanadyl sulfate has also been marketed as a supplement for body builders and others wishing to decrease appetite and body weight. Although vanadium has been shown to have these effects in insulin-resistant animals, there is little evidence that it does this in humans. Vanadyl sulfate does not seem to have an effect on the blood sugar of those who are not diabetic or insulin-resistant, so it is not recommended for prevention of these conditions.

    Dangers of Vanadium

    • The intake of vanadium in foods is not associated with harmful effects. The reported side effects of vanadium supplements include digestive disturbances, particularly diarrhea. Rats exposed to large amounts of vanadium in the laboratory have developed severe kidney damage, anemia and heart disease. Before taking vanadium supplements, consult your health care provider to see whether they are safe for you.

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