Sulfur

Sulfur is known as a healing mineral. Behind calcium and phosphorus, Sulfur is the third most abundant mineral in the human body. Every single living cell inside the body contains an element of sulfur.

It aids every cell in the elimination of toxic substances through agitation. Sulfur aids functions in enzyme reactions and protein synthesis. Sulfur is also involved in cellular respiration, which in simple terms means it helps the cells use oxygen efficiently. This results in improved bodily function, cell activity and brain function.

Sulfur is the flexible bond that connects cells; the lubricant found between joints. A deficiency of water-soluble sulfur can lead to a variety of conditions ranging from skin irritations and rashes to total breakdown of cellular regeneration. Pain and inflammation associated with various muscle and skeletal disorders indicate a deficiency of sulfur.

Sulfur’s ability to help the body rid itself of toxins is important because over time, toxins can build up inside the body and cause the immune system to weaken. Excess toxins create an overall feeling of lethargy or even impair the body’s own built-in cleansing system, the kidneys and liver. When the body is detoxified, it feels rejuvenated.

It is believed that sulfur can repair the myelin sheath, the protector on the end of every nerve in the body. It increases blood circulation, promotes muscle health, scavenges free radicals, beautifies the skin, is important for carbohydrate metabolism and speeds wound healing. Sulfur is stored in the brain, nerves, bowel and liver, and in all body cells, especially skin, hair, and nails.

Sulfur is also present in the enzymes rennin and lipase. The hormone insulin is a sulfur compound.

Sulfur deficiency is associated with inadequate protein metabolism, usually caused in part by low stomach acid. The inefficient breakdown of the sulfur containing amino acids; cystine and methionine, contribute to poor bile production (cystine) and loss of elasticity in hair, skin and connective tissues.

Foods high in sulfur: kale, cabbage, watercress, broccoli, cauliflower, horseradish, cranberries, onion and garlic, jicama, asparagus, sweet potatoes, leeks, peas, chives, avocados, and tomatoes. Nuts such as sunflower seeds, walnuts, almonds, cashews and sesame seeds contain sulfur. Fruits that contain sulfur are coconut, bananas, pineapple and watermelon. Not usually considered food but safe to consume; diatomaceous earth and bentonite clay are both high in sulfur.

Note: Sulfur is essential for the proper uptake of important bioflavonoids like quercetin and hesperidin. Both bioflavonoids are essential to assisting the body in reducing inflammation caused by allergies, hay fever and even bacterial and viral infections.