Vanadium

Insulin-mimetic properties are well-documented in vitro and in animals, but human evidence is limited and toxicity concerns are real.

A rough internal score reflecting quantity, quality, and consistency of human evidence. Not a clinical recommendation.

Animal studies show robust insulin-mimetic effects. A few small human trials of vanadyl sulfate (100–300 mg/day) showed modest glucose improvements in type 2 diabetes. Narrow therapeutic index and potential toxicity limit clinical utility.

• Insulin-mimetic properties
• May improve insulin sensitivity
• Research interest in diabetes management

Upper limit not established. Studies used 25–100 mg vanadyl sulfate daily. Typical supplement doses are 10–30 mg.

• GI distress (common)
• Green tongue discoloration
• Potential renal and hepatic toxicity

Potential kidney and liver toxicity. Not an essential nutrient in humans at supplemental doses. May accumulate in tissues.

Therapeutic doses are close to toxic doses. Not recommended for unsupervised supplementation. Better glucose-management options exist.

• Weight loss20