Vanadyl sulfate is a trace mineral found primarily in vegetable oils, soybeans, shellfish, rice, oats, and mushrooms. This mineral is needed by your body to maintain strong teeth and bones. It is marketed as a health supplement under the name vanadium. It has recently grown in popularity as a supplement marketed towards those suffering from diabetes or for bodybuilders.
There are many important uses of vanadyl sulfate, including insulin control, muscle building, cholesterol reduction, bone health, tuberculosis, and prevention of cancer. Let us take a detailed look at them below.
Vanadyl sulfate stimulates your cells to process glucose faster, essentially taking the place of insulin. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinal Metabolism, vanadyl sulfate is used as a treatment for those with metabolic disorders or for people who struggle to manage their blood sugar levels, and it may improve glucose levels by stimulating pancreatic cells and regulating their insulin production. However, other studies suggest that it does not fight insulin resistance. According to a study conducted by Dr. Meyer Halberstram et al., and published by the American Diabetes Association, this substance is not a good form of insulin control in patients who are obese. That being said, this trace mineral has been shown to be a beneficial treatment for hyperlipidemia and hypertension.
Bodybuilders and athletes will often use this mineral to boost muscle growth. Vanadyl sulfate helps muscle cells uptake more glucose, forcing more proteins and amino acids into the muscle. Because the glucose is taken in by the muscle cells instead of fat cells, it speeds the build-up of muscle mass and can help prevent fat gain.
Taking vanadyl sulfate has been shown to block enzymes in the liver, leading to reduced cholesterol production, and improved cardiovascular health, with a lower risk of heart attack and stroke.