That important mineral is sulfur. Essentially every biological process in our bodies, both beneficial and detrimental involves "RedOx." Simply put, one thing gets "Oxidized" while the other thing gets "Reduced."
Antioxidants simple "reduce" or prevent the oxidation of something else. The proper scientific term for and antioxidant is a "reducing agent."
Sulfur is a largely ignored mineral except by Dr. Stephanie Seneff of MIT where she holds the title of Senior Researcher which is equivalent to being a Full Professor.
“Sulfate deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency you’ve never heard of,” says MIT Senior Research Scientist Stephanie Seneff, PhD, at the recent Clinical and Scientific Insights (CASI) conference in San Francisco.
Seneff believes that sulfate deficiency is a major culprit behind most modern chronic diseases and health conditions. But it is one that is largely overlooked.
Sulfate, comprised of the elements sulfur and oxygen is the fourth most abundant anion in our blood. It exists throughout the body in a variety of forms, filling numerous biological functions. A critical component of extracellular matrix proteins, it aids in the detoxification of drugs, food additives, and toxic metals. It also prevents blood from coagulating during transit through capillaries.
How do you get sulfur into your diet?
Sulfur is found in many plant- and animal-based foods. Eating a balanced diet incorporating a variety of foods can help ensure you’re getting enough sulfur. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2198910/
Allium vegetables: garlic, leeks, onions, scallions, and shallots
Cruciferous vegetables: arugula, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, and radishes
Eggs
Legumes: chickpeas, faba beans (broad beans), kidney beans, lentils, and peas
Meat and seafood: chicken, crab, lobster, scallops, and organ meats
Dairy products: milk, yogurt, parmesan cheese, and cheddar cheese
Nuts and seeds: almonds, brazil nuts, walnuts, sesame seeds, and sunflower seed
Methylsulfonylmethane(MSM) is a sulfur-containing compound found in plant- and animal-based foods and certain dietary supplements. Research has demonstrated that MSM may reduce inflammation and decrease joint and muscle pain.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5372953/
A randomized, double-blind study found that individuals with osteoarthritis-associated knee pain experienced a reduction in pain and had improved joint function following 12 weeks of MSM supplementation, administered twice daily. However, research investigating the pain-relieving effects of dietary MSM is limited.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16309928/
The bottom line
Sulfur is necessary for several bodily functions and existing research suggests a possible link between the intake of sulfur-rich foods and a lower risk of certain chronic conditions. The main dietary sources of sulfur include allium and cruciferous vegetables, animal proteins, dairy, legumes, nuts, and seeds. While there is no recommended daily allowance for sulfur, consuming a variety of these foods can ensure you’re getting plenty of sulfur in your diet.
last night in our chronic disease support program it was suggested that the reduced use of sulfur as a pesticide may be the reason for ticks being so prolific. That may be part of the reason with another part being the lack of wildfires that would otherwise wipe them out.
Stay Well
Thomas J. Lewis, Ph.D.