Sulphate

What is Sulphate?

Sulphate is the oxidised form of sulphur and is an essential compound implicated in human health. It occurs naturally in the environment, particularly in soil, water, and many foods. In nutrition and supplementation, sulphate is commonly present as part of mineral compounds such as magnesium sulphate, zinc sulphate, iron sulphate, and glucosamine sulphate.

Health Benefits:

Supports Detoxification

Sulphate can support the body's natural detoxification processes through sulphation pathways in the liver. It can assist the metabolism of harmful substances such as heavy metals and environmental toxins, and facilitate their removal from the body preventing detrimental build up.

Antioxidant Action

Sulphate can support antioxidant action through its key role in the production of glutathione, one of the body’s most important antioxidants. Glutathione can help to neutralise free radicals, therefore protecting cells from damage and limiting oxidative stress. This is key to supporting general health as oxidative stress has been repeatedly shown to be linked to ageing and the development of various diseases including neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases.

Anti-Inflammatory Support

Studies suggest that sulphate may have anti-inflammatory effects, making it potentially suitable for supporting the comfort and health of individuals with inflammatory conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and osteoarthritis. For instance, research evidences that chondroitin sulphate may have anti-inflammatory effects in a range of tissues and provide benefits for those with psoriasis and atherosclerosis, conditions strongly tied to inflammation.

Typical use:

Sulphate can be obtained through a healthy and balanced diet containing functional foods rich in the mineral such as meats, fish, eggs, nuts, seeds and some vegetables including broccoli and onion. Alongside this, some people choose to take a supplement containing sulphate to ensure that they obtain the optimal amount of the mineral to effectively support their health.