Vanadium is a metallic element that some people take as a dietary supplement in hopes of controlling blood sugar, increasing strength and avoiding osteoporosis. It is also called vanadyl sulfate and vanadate.
Uses
As of 2009, vanadium does not have any prescribed use in medicine. As a dietary supplement, some studies have suggested that vanadium may help people with Type 2 diabetes, but scientists are still investigating those claims, according to information from the University of Maryland Medical Center. Body builders take vanadium because they think it will help them build muscle, according to information from the U.S. Army's Directorate of Health Promotion and Wellness. Some studies have suggested that vanadium may also help bones retain their strength, so scientists are investigating its use in treating osteoporosis.
Sources of Vanadium
Vanadium is found in many foods, but scientists have not determined if it is necessary for human nutrition. It is naturally found in shellfish, mushrooms, parsley, dill weed, wine and grain.
Dosages
Scientists do not know if humans need vanadium, but intake estimates range between 10 and 30 micrograms per day, according to information from the U.S. Army. On average, American diets provide between 10 and 60 micrograms per day from food sources. Daily doses should not exceed 1.8 mg, according to information from the University of Maryland Medical Center. Higher doses can be toxic.
History
Vanadium is a metal found in the periodic table at atomic number 23. It was discovered originally by Mexican chemist Andres Manuel del Rio in 1801, according to information from Jefferson Lab. However, his discovery was disputed, and vanadium remained in obscurity until Nils Gabriel Sefstrom, a Swedish chemist, rediscovered it in 1830. Sefstrom named it "vanadium" after the Scandinavian goddess Vanadis. Vanadis is the goddess of youth, love, beauty and the dead, and she is the wife of Odin. Sefstrom named the element after her because of its beautiful colors.
Warning
Vanadium is toxic to humans and can cause death if taken in significant amounts. Consult a qualified health care professional before supplementing with vanadium. People who take anticoagulants, like coumadin, should not take vanadium because it can increase the risk of bleeding, according to information from the University of Maryland Medical Center. Children and people with kidney disease should not take vanadium.
Tags: according information, according information from, information from, from University, from University Maryland, information from University, Maryland Medical