Sulfur for the human body. The benefits and harms of microelements, how to take them

Sulfur is an element that, when mentioned, makes you think of the occult, weapons and toxic chemicals. The history of this element is very rich, and the scope of its modern application is very extensive.

Previously, priests and shamans used sulfur vapors to perform ceremonies and rituals. Later, sulfur began to be added to flammable and explosive substances, that is, it was used for military purposes. Arsenic and other dangerous toxic compounds were also made from sulfur. Then one of the strongest inorganic acids, sulfuric acid, was made from it...

Using sulfur for militaristic, religious and other purposes, people began to subconsciously consider sulfur a very dangerous element from which they should stay away. But since the end of the 19th century, information began to appear that sulfur could be useful. The healing effect of sulfur springs, the discovery of sulfur in proteins and the identification of its valuable biological properties made it possible to understand that in small doses it is very important for us.

What is sulfur and its role in the human body

Sulfur for the human body is a necessary element that is part of many cells. The mass of the mineral is 0.24% of a person’s weight.

Biological role of sulfur:

• With its help, disulfide bridges are formed in the body, with the help of which protein activity occurs.
• Participates in energy transfer between cells.
• Performs a transport function in the body.
• Sulfur is responsible for the coagulation of leukocytes, moves methyl groups and promotes fat metabolism.
• The mineral is part of insulin, coenzymes, and histamine.
• Sulfur in the body has a rejuvenating effect.

Methylsulfonylmethane MSM

One of these dietary supplements is MSM NSP . MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is a water-soluble organic product containing sulfur. It has neither odor nor taste and is considered one of the least toxic biological substances. Regular table salt is much more toxic than MSM. The organic sulfur in MSM NSP is very well absorbed. When taken orally, part of the dose of MSM is delivered to the cells of the mucous membrane, while the rest of the substance is quickly absorbed into the blood. Within 24 hours, the sulfur released from MSM is completely absorbed by the body’s tissues, its excess is easily removed with urine and bile.

Useful properties of sulfur

Sulfur has many beneficial properties:

• takes part in tissue metabolism;

  
  Sulfur is important for the human body as it performs a number of functions.

• is part of amino acids;
• maintains oxygen balance in the human body.
• promotes active activity of the nervous system;
• maintains normal sugar balance;
• is one of the powerful antiallergens;
• Great for boosting immunity.
• Humans need sulfur no less than vitamin D;
• participates in the proper formation of bones (which is especially important during the development of a child);
• improves the performance of ligaments and joints;
• responsible for collagen synthesis;
• has a healing effect;
• removes toxins and waste from the liver;
• synthesizes melanin and keratin;
• participates in the formation of vitamins, including biotin and lipoic acid;
• prevents cramps and joint pain.

What if it's not enough?

Sulfur deficiency is extremely rare and only occurs in those who receive virtually no protein foods
. Strict vegetarians should be especially careful when planning their diet. They need to regularly consume plant foods containing essential amino acids. Symptoms of sulfur deficiency are mainly skin and hair problems. A lack of the substance can also cause muscle pain, disturbances in the nervous system, circulatory problems, inflammatory reactions and decreased immunity.

Indications for use

Sulfur is used in folk practice and medicine, for example, in the field of dermatology: with the help of sulfur, doctors “fight” the symptoms of scabies, eczema and folliculitis. The mineral is used for seborrhea, psoriasis or hair loss. Doctors also prescribe it when diagnosing various skin acne, sycosis and herpes zoster.

In the presence of high pigmentation of the epidermis or the presence of freckles, sulfur can be used as an exfoliant, and in case of constipation - as a laxative. Very often, sulfur helps with chronic hemorrhoids. It is also prescribed as an anthelmintic.

When diagnosing polyarthritis or sciatica, the mineral is used as an irritant, and in the presence of progressive paralysis, body temperature is increased using a sulfur suspension. Sulfur is also used for severe poisoning with mercury, metals and hydrocyanic acid. At home, sulfur is used for inflammatory processes of the gums.

Preparations containing sulfur

Sulfur is available in two main forms: dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM).

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and medications that contain it should only be taken under medical supervision, since internal administration of DMSO has side effects such as constipation or diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, and headache. External use of preparations (creams, ointments) containing dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) may cause skin irritation. Contraindicated in pregnant and breastfeeding women. DMSO is contraindicated in diabetes, asthma, heart disease, kidney disease, and liver disease.

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a safe drug, but if you want to take it in large dosages, it is better to consult your doctor.

Symptoms of lack of sulfur in the body

There are often cases when a lack of sulfur occurs in the human body; its deficiency is immediately visible, indicated by the following symptoms:

• joint pain;
• liver diseases and pathologies are activated;
• tachycardia;
• increased skin oiliness;
• metabolic processes are disrupted;
• chronic fatigue appears;
• allergic reactions appear;
• hair falls out and becomes dull;
• immunity decreases;
• constipation appears.

Benefits of sulfur for diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is a disease caused by metabolic disorders due to a lack of insulin in the body. Type 2 diabetes is characterized by a loss of the ability of peripheral tissues to metabolize insulin and glucose. Because of this, cells become impenetrable and resistant to insulin or glucose when enough insulin is produced.

Supplementing with sulfur may help with these problems. The trace element can affect the production of insulin and other vital components: thiamine, biotin. Sulfur also helps restore normal blood sugar levels, because. increases the permeability of cell membranes.

Oversupply

Sulfur is very useful for the human body, but in nature there are also mineral compounds that are highly toxic - these are hydrogen sulfide, carbon disulfide and various sulfur oxides. They are produced in hazardous industries, fires or chemical warehouses when environmental conditions are violated.

Some researchers believe that the use of sulfur-containing preservatives contributes to the development of bronchial asthma.

Reasons for excess sulfur: large intake of sulfur and its oxides into the human body; metabolic disorder.

To avoid high levels of sulfur in the human body, it is recommended to consume raw, fatty poultry meat and fresh eggs in your diet.

Interaction with other substances

The “opponents” of sulfur are Selenium, Barium, and also heavy metals – molybdenum and lead, Mo.

For better absorption of sulfur, the following products will help:

• fish;
• honey;
• bran;

• pumpkin;
• oatmeal;
• peas;
• poultry and rabbit meat;
• Rye bread;
• buckwheat.

Instructions for taking sulfur

Sulfur is very useful for the human body, so to use the mineral for therapy you need to buy it in pharmacies. Purified or precipitated sulfur is intended for internal use by humans. There will be no adverse reactions when using them. The maximum that can happen is increased gas formation from purified sulfur.

Powder for internal use

To use sulfur internally, as a food additive, as mentioned above, it must be purchased purified in pharmacies. Sulfur powder should be taken no more than 0.45 g per day. The substance can be divided into 3 parts, and also washed down with water during meals.

Sulfur can be added to dishes and drinks - this method is applicable to small children, as if the powder is accidentally inhaled, a choking attack may occur. Sulfur powder is an excellent remedy for getting rid of acne and inflammation on the skin because it has a drying property. You should take no more than 1 g of the mineral per day; doctors advise sticking to a dosage of 0.5 g.

Ointment

When using ointment, it should be applied in a very thin layer only to clean areas of the skin, previously washed with soap, so as not to disturb the fatty film. If it is damaged, air exchange with the environment will be disrupted. The action of sulfur ointment is aimed at restoring the epidermis. The substance is applied for a day, after which it is washed off with plain water.

The course of treatment ends after 5 days. Further, as prescribed by the doctor, the procedures either continue or not.

For the effectiveness of the properties of sulfur ointment, it is recommended to have a balanced diet, eliminating salty, flour and fatty foods. Sulfur ointment is also used in the treatment of lichen, but only at an early stage, no more than 10 days. When bitten by a tick, the ointment is applied in a thick layer and is not washed off until the insect itself crawls out.

Brewer's yeast with sulfur

Brewer's yeast with sulfur is used to treat acne, furunculosis and hair loss. The substance is taken orally in the form of tablets or granules. Masks for the face and scalp are prepared using sulfur brewer's yeast.

Chewable sulfur

Chewable sulfur is a larch resin that has a positive effect on the oral cavity and the entire body as a whole. The properties of this type of mineral will help get rid of premature tooth decay and loss. In case of inflammation of the gums, the drug must be kneaded like plasticine and begin to chew, and then placed on the “damaged” area.

It is strictly forbidden to use chewing resin for periodontal disease, as it promotes a strong flow of blood to the gums, thereby contributing to the development of the disease. Doctors recommend chewing sulfur in stressful situations and for people who live in unfavorable environmental conditions, for example, in conditions of radiation.

Vitamin and mineral complexes with sulfur included

Vitamin-mineral complexes with the inclusion of sulfur are in great demand in pharmacies; when they are used, skin cells are renewed, collagen synthesis is enhanced, and hair growth improves.

The vitamins come in medium-sized tablets that are easy to swallow. You need to take 1 tablet per day - morning and evening, for 30 days. After 3 months the course can be repeated. If you have diseases or allergic reactions, you should definitely consult a doctor and get tested if necessary.

Sulfur to preserve youth

Sulfur is an essential element for young, beautiful skin and healthy, silky hair. It is part of the amino acids responsible for the processes of collagen synthesis and keratin activity.

With the complex use of the mineral, skin turgor is strengthened, facial wrinkles are smoothed out, and the process of skin cell renewal begins. Sulfur helps reduce inflammation, cleanse pores, and block pathogenic flora.

Sulfur for the treatment of shingles

When treating shingles, sulfur is often used in combination with glycerin. This tandem will completely relieve pain during illness. Glycerin and sulfur are mixed in proportions 2:1. The first has a moisturizing effect on the skin, and the second suppresses the spread of the virus and relieves inflammation.

When you start using such a compress, you may feel a slight itching - this means that the skin is healing successfully. For greater effect, you can add boric acid to the mixture, which promotes an antibacterial effect and prevents other bacteria from being introduced into the wound.

Sulfur for other diseases

Sulfur has its own derivatives, which are often used in medicine to block symptoms or completely eliminate them:

• sulfur color - used for diseases of the scalp (scabies, eczema, seborrhea);
• sulfur milk is an antiparasitic agent that acts on certain microorganisms and harmful bacteria.
• purified sulfur - used as a laxative for diarrhea, it should be taken several times a day.

Hydrogen sulfide baths are very common in medicine. They are prescribed to people who have problems with the nervous system, spine, or suffer from hypertension. Hydrogen sulfide baths also have a positive effect on patients with varicose veins, diabetes and slow metabolism. This procedure is also common in the field of urology and gynecology.

When immersed in such a bath, hydrogen sulfide begins to be absorbed into the blood through the skin, then irritation of nerve endings occurs, which helps improve the performance of various human organs.

Hydrogen sulfide baths are contraindicated for people:

• with heart disease;
• kidney;
• liver;
• patients with ischemia and oncology.

Hydrogen sulfide baths are also prohibited if patients have:

• bronchial asthma;
• chronic stomach ulcer;
• oncology;
• hyperthyroidism.

Where is it used?

Pharmacy sulfur is used to treat various diseases; medicines based on this trace element can quickly eliminate the manifestations of articular and dermatological pathologies.

What does sulfur help with:

• allergies and dermatological diseases;
• bronchial asthma;
• arthritis, scoliosis, bursitis, osteoarthritis, myositis, sprains;
• convulsions;
• as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic;
• to strengthen the immune system, speedy recovery after long-term illnesses;
• to reduce the body's need for insulin in diabetes mellitus.

Read also: What are the benefits of bell pepper?

In cosmetology, products with sulfur are used to prevent early aging, improve the appearance of the skin, give strength and shine to hair, and strengthen nail plates.

Sulfur is used in cosmetology

For external medicinal preparations, precipitated (purified, combustible) sulfur is used; it is part of sulfur ointment, which is prescribed for the treatment of scabies, seborrhea, and psoriasis. In combination with lanolin, petroleum jelly, and stearic acid, the microelement has an anthelmintic, exfoliating and anti-inflammatory effect - such drugs are prescribed to eliminate rosacea and scalp lesions.

Purified sulfur in the form of tablets is used in the treatment of enterobiasis, constipation, and as an external remedy for the treatment of dermatological pathologies. In the form of a yellow powder, the product is used in folk and traditional medicine; it can be used internally and in the preparation of medicines.

Homeopathic sulfur has a weak therapeutic effect; it is produced in the form of granules; the drug must be taken for a long time under the supervision of a specialist.

Sulfur is useful not only for people, but also for animals - the feed product is included in vitamins for animals. This microelement is also used to enrich fertilizers in agriculture, in the production of steel and rubber, explosives, and pyrotechnics.

Micronutrient-rich foods

To ensure a sufficient supply of sulfur to the human body, one must have a balanced diet, which will include both sufficient amounts of protein and products of animal and plant origin. Also don’t forget vitamin B and amino acids. If you wish, you can consult a nutritionist to create a proper diet.

Physiological action

It would seem, what could be the benefit for our health from a flammable substance, many of whose compounds have an unpleasant odor and have a suffocating effect. But sulfur is a macronutrient, and its content in the body of an adult is about 140 g. Only two other macroelements – calcium and phosphorus – are higher.

This substance in our body is not ballast at all. After all, Nature does nothing in vain, every step is thought out, and every element plays its role. But what is the role of sulfur? None. Then what positive effects does it have? All.

This paradox is only apparent. Yes, by itself, taken in its pure form, it may not be beneficial. But in connections it manifests itself in all its glory.

It is enough to mention sulfhydryl groups. These groups (thiol groups, SH groups) are formed by residues of the amino acid cystine.

This is a proteinogenic amino acid, i.e., one that is part of proteins. Sulfhydryl groups, as the name and designation suggest, consist of hydrogen and sulfur atoms.

Two adjacent SH groups form the so-called. disulfide bridges or disulfide groups (SS groups), consisting of two sulfur atoms.

These disulfide groups form the structure of proteins. Each protein is essentially a polypeptide - a combination of a large number of peptides formed by amino acid residues. The sequence of peptides in a chain is the primary structure.

The chain is spirally twisted - this is the secondary structure. A spirally twisted chain can take various forms (thread, ball) - this is a tertiary structure. Finally, the molecules of a number of proteins can be formed not by one, but by several polypeptide chains, which are connected to each other in strictly defined places. This is the quaternary structure of a protein.

Tertiary and quaternary structures determine the spatial configuration or conformation of a protein molecule. The properties of a protein depend on its conformation.

Under the influence of temperature, chemical compounds, and other factors, the tertiary and quaternary structures are disrupted. This process is called protein denaturation. Denatured protein loses its properties.

Sulfur in the composition of sulfhydryl groups and disulfide bridges forms a kind of rigid frame that helps the protein molecule maintain conformation. Thanks to this, the protein retains its properties.

It is known that enzymes, these catalysts of biochemical reactions, are proteins. Therefore, sulfur helps enzymes maintain their activity. And indeed it is. Under the influence of damaging factors, disulfide bridges are destroyed and the enzyme is inactivated.

Enzymes are not entirely proteins. They contain a non-protein part, a coenzyme. Vitamins, vitamin-like substances, other organic compounds, and even metals (metal enzymes) can act as coenzymes. Sulfhydryl groups provide the connection between the apoenzyme (the white component of the enzyme) and the coenzyme.

Its value is not limited to the formation of sulfhydryl groups and disulfide bridges. It is part of many other biologically active substances. In addition to the aforementioned cysteine ​​and its derivative cystine, sulfur-containing amino acids include tauirne and methionine.

Taurine is a component of taurocholic acid, one of the bile components. A methionine derivative, S-Methylmethionine, better known as vit. U, has an anti-ulcerogenic effect - prevents the development of gastric and duodenal ulcers.

Some other vitamins also contain sulfur: Vit B1 (Thiamin), Vit. B7 (Biotin), and Vit. B9 (Folic acid). Sulfur is part of the plasma proteins albumin and hemoglobin in the blood. Insulin, pepsin, collagen, keratin, oxytocin, lysozyme - this is not a complete list of hormones and other biologically active compounds that contain sulfur.

As part of these compounds, S regulates the function of organ systems and affects vital processes:

The cardiovascular system

• normalizes blood pressure (BP) and prevents the development of hypertension
• strengthens vascular walls
• prevents the development of vascular atherosclerosis
• increases the strength of heart contractions.

Blood

• stimulates red blood cell synthesis
• as part of hemoglobin, it transports oxygen and carbon dioxide
• normalizes blood clotting
• prevents pathological thrombus formation.

Respiratory system

• prevents bronchospasm
• improves gas exchange in the pulmonary alveoli.

Digestive system

• participates in the neutralization of toxins by the liver and their subsequent excretion with bile through the intestines
• strengthens the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract (gastrointestinal tract)
• prevents the development of inflammatory processes and ulceration
• emulsifies fats and improves their absorption in the small intestine
• facilitates the absorption of other nutrients (nutrients) in the gastrointestinal tract
• improves gastrointestinal motility
• has a positive effect on the state of the physiological intestinal microflora that synthesizes B vitamins
• improves gastrointestinal motility, promotes the formation of feces.

Nervous system

• improves cerebral blood flow, prevents the formation of blood clots in cerebral vessels
• has a positive effect on the emotional-volitional sphere
• improves thinking and memory
• normalizes sleep
• slows down age-related degenerative changes leading to Alzheimer's disease
• has an anticonvulsant effect.

Musculoskeletal system

• increases muscle strength and endurance
• strengthens the ligamentous apparatus, bones, articular ligaments
• reduces the intensity of joint and muscle pain
• reduces the risk of bone fractures, and in case of existing fractures, accelerates the healing of bone fragments
• prevents the development of arthritis.

Skin and appendages

• increases skin strength and elasticity
• acts in a similar way on hair, preventing hair loss
• Composed of melanin, it protects the skin from the damaging effects of sun rays
• accelerates the healing of skin wounds
• slows down the natural aging process with the appearance of wrinkles, stretch marks, and age spots.

Genitourinary system

• along with other factors, regulates the processes of filtration and reabsorption (reabsorption) in the renal tubules with the formation of urine
• promotes the removal of toxic substances and metabolic products in the urine
• prevents the appearance of tissue edema
• ensures spermatogenesis in men, ovulation in women, normalizes the menstrual cycle
• during childbirth, the composition of oxytocin increases the contractile activity of the uterus, prevents the development of bleeding during childbirth and in the postpartum period
• forms libido in both sexes.

Metabolism

• as part of enzymes and hormones, it participates in all types of metabolism: protein, carbohydrate, fat (lipid), and water-salt
• regulates anabolism and catabolism (synthesis and breakdown) of proteins
• prevents obesity and diabetes
• normalizes acid-base balance
• prevents excessive acidification (acidosis) and alkalization (alkalosis) in tissues during various pathological processes.

Other effects

Sulfur is included in the composition of immunoglobulin antibodies, which provide specific humoral immunity against pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and fungi. In addition, it is part of lysozyme.

This enzyme in the human body also destroys pathogenic bacteria. S is included in many antioxidant systems. It inhibits free radical oxidation, during which cell membranes are damaged.

Thanks to this macroelement, damaged cell membranes are restored. It reduces the severity of inflammatory reactions with pain and fever. It inhibits all 3 phases of inflammation:

1. alteration (damage)
2. exudation (appearance of liquid effusion)
3. proliferation (pathological cell growth).

S increases the body's resistance to ionizing radiation and reduces the risk of malignant tumors. In general, sulfur combines all the positive features of the enzymes, amino acids, and vitamins that it contains.

Daily requirement

The adult body needs 0.5-1.2 g of sulfur for normal functioning. Although some believe that the need for this macronutrient is much higher. They give figures of 3-4 g, and even 4-5 g.

Probably a lot depends on your health and lifestyle. Intense sports, physical activity, recovery from serious illnesses and fractures, pregnancy - all this increases the need for S.

Causes and signs of deficiency

There are no specific reasons that lead only to sulfur deficiency. The deficiency of this macronutrient may be associated with a small amount of sulfur-containing amino acids. Some of them, in particular methionine, are essential for us and enter the body only as part of food.

But a lack of methionine by itself is unlikely to lead to a decrease in sulfur levels in the body. After all, this macronutrient is present in many animal and plant foods, and its deficiency can only be caused by complete starvation or severe restrictive diets.

Other reasons include:

• serious illnesses
• increased physical activity
• gastrointestinal diseases, dysbacteriosis
• pregnancy
• congenital deficiency of certain enzymes responsible for the absorption of sulfur-containing products.

Signs of deficiency are as nonspecific as its causes. Patients may complain of general weakness and low performance. This is also facilitated by a decrease in muscle tone and strength. On the part of the musculoskeletal system, osteoporosis, frequent arthrosis and arthritis are noted.

The risk of cardiovascular diseases (hypertension, atherosclerosis), obesity, diabetes mellitus, and cancer increases. Due to low immunity, susceptibility to infections appears. As a result of digestive disorders, the absorption of other nutrients deteriorates. Children are stunted in growth and development.

Where to buy sulfur, which one is suitable, price?

You should buy sulfur only in pharmacies, including veterinary ones. The mineral is sold in various forms; to determine which drug a person needs, it is better to first consult with your doctor or pharmacist, who will tell you why and what is needed.

For example, purified sulfur or sulfur powder must be taken orally; sulfur ointment – ​​used for scalp diseases; in the form of granules and tablets - for the treatment of acne and other inflammations. The average price of sulfur per 1 kg is 80 rubles.

Sulfur is an important macronutrient for the human body that is present throughout life. Without it, many life processes are impossible. Human health and appearance directly depend on sulfur. It’s not for nothing that people have always welcomed the consumption of animal products with a high sulfur content, because it’s not for nothing that they call it “the mineral of beauty.”

Article design: Oleg Lozinsky

Recommendations for use

The absorption of sulfur is facilitated by iron and fluorine, so if there is a lack of sulfur in the diet, it is worth increasing the consumption of these microelements.

For many skin diseases - scabies, psoriasis, various types of lichen, fungus - sulfur ointment is recommended. It also has an antifungal effect. Sulfur ointment is applied to clean skin; before using it, you need to take a bath or shower. The ointment is applied for several hours.

Sulfur preparations can only be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding on the advice of a doctor. It is not recommended to use them to treat children under 3 years of age.

It is recommended to drink mineral hydrogen sulfide water to cleanse the liver, detoxify the body, and improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

Contraindications to its use: kidney disease, cancer, respiratory diseases.