Sulphur

Question 1

Sulfur found

Answer 1

• Found in the human body and considered a macromineral however, the body does not use sulfur alone as a nutrient
• Found in the body associated structurally with B Vitamins (thiamin, biotin) and as part of sulfur containing amino acids (methionine, cysteine, taurine)
• Commonly found in proteins especially those of the skin, hair and nails
• Available in the diet associated with proteins

Question 2

Sulfur function

Answer 2

• Stabilizes the connective tissue matrix of cartilage, tendons and ligaments

Question 3

Sulfur supplements

Answer 3

• Glucosamine sulfate
• Chondroitin sulfate
• DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide)
• MSM (methylsulfonylmethane)

Question 4

Glucosamine sulfate

Answer 4

o Stimulates the manufacture of glucosaminoglycans (GAG’s) which are the key structural components of cartilage and also promotes the incorporation of sulfur into cartilage
o Clinical indications:
• Osteoarthritis
• Brittle nails
• Chondromalacia
• Interstitial cystitis?
o Most often sourced from chitin which is contraindicated in those with shellfish allergies and those who are Kosher

Question 5

Chondroitin sulfate

Answer 5

o Major constituent of cartilage
o Anti-inflammatory
o Absorption?
o Clinical indications: osteoarthritis

Question 6

DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide)

Answer 6

o A highly polar solvent

o Acts topically as a “driver”

Question 7

MSM (methylsulfonylmethane)

Answer 7

o Oxidized form of DMSO
o Anti-inflammatory?
o Clinical indications: osteoarthrisits