Vanadium
Uses
Vanadium is an ultra-trace mineral found in the human diet and the human body. It is essential for some animals. Deficiency symptoms in these animals include growth retardation, bone deformities, and infertility. However, vanadium has not been proven to be an essential mineral for humans.
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For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
3 Stars Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2 Stars Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1 Star For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Why |
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1 Star
Type 2 Diabetes
Refer to label instructions
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Vanadyl sulfate, a form of vanadium, may improve glucose control in people with type 2 diabetes.
Clinical trials using the vanadium salt vanadyl sulfate, in doses of 100 mg to 150 mg per day, indicate it may improve glucose control and insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes. Over a six-week period, a small group of people with type 2 diabetes were given 75 mg, 150 mg, or 300 mg of vanadyl sulfate (about 25–100 mg elemental vanadium) per day. Only in the groups receiving 150 mg or 300 mg was glucose metabolism improved and fasting blood glucose levels and HbA1c decreased; however, these higher doses cause digestive disturbances and were associated with reductions in beneficial HDL-cholesterol levels. Other forms of vanadium, such as a vanadium-maltol complex, also appear to improve glycemic control and are being explored for their safety.
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How It Works
How to Use It
As yet, research indicates that most people would not benefit from vanadium supplementation. Optimal intake of vanadium is unknown. If vanadium turns out to be essential for humans, the estimated requirement would probably be less than 10 mcg per day. An average diet provides 15–30 mcg per day.
Where to Find It
Vanadium is found in very small amounts in a wide variety of foods, including seafood, cereals, mushrooms, parsley, corn, soy, and gelatin.
Possible Deficiencies
Deficiencies of vanadium have not been reported in humans, and it is not known whether this mineral is essential for humans.
Interactions
Interactions with Supplements, Foods, & Other Compounds
Interactions with Medicines
Side Effects
Side Effects
Information about vanadium toxicity is limited. Workers exposed to vanadium dust can develop toxic effects. High blood levels have been linked to manic-depressive mental disorders, but the meaning of this remains uncertain.1 Vanadium sometimes inhibits, but at other times stimulates, cancer growth in animals. However, the effect in humans remains unknown.2
References
1. Naylor GJ. Vanadium and manic depressive psychosis. Nutr Health 1984;3:79-85 [review].
2. Chakraborty A, Ghosh R, Roy K, et al. Vanadium: a modifier of drug metabolizing enzyme patterns and its critical role in cellular proliferation in transplantable murine lymphoma. Oncology 1995;52:310-4.
Last Review: 05-24-2015
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.
