SmartEngageTM

Vanadium

Vanadium is a trace mineral found in many foods. Scientists think your body may need vanadium in very small amounts for normal bone growth. Scientists aren't sure exactly what effects vanadium may have, or what amount might be helpful, however, they know high doses of vanadium are likely to be unsafe.

Most studies on vanadium have been animal studies. Since few clinical trials involving humans have been completed, vanadium isn't recommended for any disease or condition. However, it may have an effect on blood sugar in people with diabetes.

Diabetes

Several animal studies and a few small human studies suggest that vanadium may lower blood sugar levels and improve sensitivity to insulin in people with type 2 diabetes. In one study of people with type 2 diabetes, vanadium also lowered total and LDL ("bad") cholesterol.

However, the dosages used in these studies were far above the tolerable upper intake level (UL). Scientists don't know whether taking vanadium at those levels is safe -- or whether it actually works. Other studies suggest that vanadium has no effect on blood sugar levels.

Body Building/Performance Enhancement

Vanadium is sometimes advertised as a sports supplement, but there is no evidence that it boosts performance. In fact, one clinical trial examining vanadium use in athletes found no benefit at all.

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Nutrition

Review Date: 7/16/2013  

Reviewed By: Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD, Solutions Acupuncture, a private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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