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Essential4Health

Get Healthy ~ Stay Healthy

Essential4Health

Get Healthy ~ Stay Healthy

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SULFUR SENSITIVITY

Description

Sulfur Sensitivity refers to adverse reactions triggered by exposure to sulfur-containing compounds found in foods, supplements, or environmental sources. Sulfur plays an essential role in DNA synthesis, food metabolism, and the body’s detoxification processes, but those with sulfur sensitivity may experience symptoms like headaches, fatigue, digestive discomfort, or respiratory problems when exposed to high levels. This condition is often associated with an impaired sulfation pathway, limiting the body’s ability to process sulfur efficiently. Managing sulfur sensitivity typically involves dietary changes, such as reducing sulfur-rich foods like garlic, onions, and cruciferous vegetables. Addressing underlying health issues that exacerbate sulfur sensitivity is also crucial. Proper diagnosis and tailored management strategies can help alleviate symptoms, allowing individuals to maintain their overall health and well-being with minimal disruption to their lifestyle.

Body System

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[1] Higdon J. Molybdenum. Oregon State University: Linus Pauling Institute. 2001.
[2] Courbet G, Gallardo K, Vigani G,et al. Disentangling the complexity and diversity of crosstalk between sulfur and other mineral nutrients in cultivated plants. Journal of experimental botany. 2019, 70, 4183-4196.
[3] Zvonimir M, Silke L, Fanis M. Iron Sulfur and Molybdenum Cofactor Enzymes Regulate the Drosophila Life Cycle by Controlling Cell Metabolism. Frontiers in Physiology. 2018, Vol 9.
[4] Bold J. Considerations for the diagnosis and management of sulphite sensitivity. Gastroenterol Hepatol Bed Bench. 2012;5(1):3-6.
[5] Hernandez Garcia F. Moderate vitamin B6 deficiency and sulfur amino acid metabolism in male and female rats.
[6] Waring RH, Klovrza LV. Sulphur metabolism in autism. Journal of Nutritional & Environmental Medicine. 2000 Jan 1;10(1):25-32.
[7] Sawyer TW. N-Acetylcysteine as a treatment for sulphur mustard poisoning. Free Radical Biology and Medicine. 2020 Dec 1;161:305-20.
[8] Aldini G, Altomare A, Baron G, Vistoli G, Carini M, Borsani L, Sergio F. N-Acetylcysteine as an antioxidant and disulphide breaking agent: the reasons why. Free radical research. 2018 Jul 3;52(7):751-62.
[9] Steijns M, Mars P. The adsorption of sulfur by microporous materials. Journal of Colloid and Interface Science. 1976 Oct 1;57(1):175-80.
[10] Karaman R. Novel modified bentonite-montmorillonite and activated charcoal complexes for detoxification. International Journal of Clinical Toxicology. 2014;2(2):37-41.

1. Molybdenum: Molybdenum supports sulfur metabolism by converting excess sulfur into sulfate, which the kidneys can excrete efficiently. It ensures balanced sulfur processing and helps manage sensitivities related to sulfur overload.

2. Calcium D-Glucarate: Calcium D-Glucarate enhances the glucuronidation pathway, helping the body remove excess sulfur compounds when the transsulfation pathway is impaired. This process promotes sulfur balance and reduces sensitivities.

3. Vitamin B6 [Pyridoxine]: Vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in converting homocysteine to cysteine in the transsulfuration pathway. This aids in the proper metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids, supporting sulfur processing.

4. N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine [NAC]: NAC boosts glutathione production, aiding in the detoxification of sulfur compounds. This helps the body process and eliminate excess sulfur, contributing to reduced sensitivity.

No replicated and convincing research studies are available, and there is no anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of this method.

1. Activated Charcoal: Activated charcoal absorbs sulfur compounds in the digestive tract, reducing bloating and discomfort caused by sulfur-based gases. This supports the elimination of excess sulfur.

2. Bentonite Clay: Bentonite clay binds toxins and heavy metals, supporting liver and kidney detoxification. It may also alleviate sulfur sensitivity by improving gut health and reducing bloating.

3. Zeolite: Zeolite captures heavy metals and toxins, easing the detox burden on the liver and kidneys. This can improve sulfur metabolism, reduce inflammation, and alleviate sulfur sensitivity.

No replicated and convincing research studies are available, and there is no anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of this method.

Supplements

Plant Extracts

Natural Compounds

Alternative Treatments

Symptoms & Signs

Causes

Genetics, Overabundance of Sulfur in the Body, Sulfur Metabolism Impairments, Glyphosate Exposure

Books That You May Want To Read

How Nutrients Function

Antioxidants: Antioxidants protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular ailments. They safeguard DNA integrity, slow down aging processes, and support overall cellular health.


Minerals: Minerals are essential for various physiological functions, including bone health, nerve transmission, and enzyme activity. They support overall health by ensuring proper cellular function and metabolic processes.


Vitamins: Vitamins are essential micronutrients that play diverse roles in supporting cellular processes, immune function, and overall health. They must be obtained through diet or supplementation to ensure proper bodily function.

Nutrients Explained In Nutritional Guide

Podcast Episodes To Listen To

Educational Videos To Learn From

Functional Lab Tests That You Might Consider

References

Things To Do

A low-sulfur diet should include whole foods that contain no or reduced amounts of this element, such as:


  • vegetables: carrots, mushrooms, zucchini, potatoes, sweet potatoes, celery, cucumber, squash, bell peppers, beets, ginger, etc.

  • fruit: apples, bananas, avocados, kiwis, peaches, grapes, citrus fruits, berries, pears, etc.

  • meats: organ meats, dark meat chicken, dark meat turkey, salmon, mackrel, sardines, and shrimp. Most meats and seafood contain sulfur; however, they should not be completely excluded from the diet since they provide essential proteins to the body.

  • fats: olive oil, butter, ghee

  • nuts and seeds: pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, macademia nuts.

  • white rice

  • stay hydrated and drink plenty of filtered water and herbal teas

  • sweeteners: honey

  • herbs: oregano, basil, thyme, marjoram, terragon, parsley, etc.


A low-sulfur diet is an elimination diet.  Elimination diets usually end with a slow reintroduction of allergens into the eating plan. Work with your physician or an experienced nutrition expert to properly assess the modifications to your diet.


Furthermore, remember to:


  • get enough quality sleep to help your metabolism.

  • exercise regularly to promote detoxification and proper metabolic functioning.

  • If you or your doctor suspect glyphosate or another contaminant to be causing your intolerance, discuss possible detoxification methods.

  • plan your meals ahead of time and create a meal plan to stay on top of your diet.

  • optimize your gut health to improve sulfur metabolism.

Things To Avoid

Individuals who suffer from sulfur intolerance should avoid the following:


  • vegetables: cruciferous vegetables, dark leafy greens, garlic, onions, shallots, leeks, asparagus, peas, raddish, sauerkraut, green beans, etc.

  • fruit: pineapple and papaya.

  • all grains, with the exception of white rice

  • fats: coconut oil

  • nuts and seeds: sesame seeds, all nuts with the exception of macademia nuts

  • meats: beef, pork, processed meats such as deli meats, bacon, sausage, hot dogs, etc.

  • drinks: coffee, black and green tea, alcohol, sodas, alcohol, and unfiltered water

  • bone broth

  • ultra-processed foods, junk, and fast foods.

  • sugar, candy, sweets, desserts, etc.

  • refined grains, flours, and baked goods.

  • dairy: eggs, yogurts, buttermilk, kefir, cheeses, etc.

  • chocolate.]

  • herbs and spices: onion powder, garlic powder, cilantro, chives, and mustard.


Furthermore, watch out for the following:


  • sulfates in bodycare and household products. Even though most people with sulfur intolerance do not react to sulfates in their skin, hair, and body care products, substances such as SLS and SLES can negatively impact the skin and hair.

  • bleached coffee filters and tea bags, and paper inserts in packaged meats. 

  • Supplements such as Alpha Lipoic Acid, MSM, N-Acetylcysteine, Collagen, Chlorella, Choline, Glucosamine, and more will increase sulfur levels in the body.

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