Vanadium is a non-essential mineral that plays a role in the formation of bones and teeth, and in the regulation of cellular metabolism It is also involved in the production of hormones, in cholesterol metabolism, and in normal growth and reproduction. Scientists suspect that a deficiency of this mineral may play a role in kidney and heart disease. Recent studies have also indicated that vanadium may slow the growth of tumors and confer protection against the development of breast cancer, but more research is needed to determine its full role in human health.
There is no recommended daily intake for vanadium, though it is estimated that most people consume between 2 and 4 milligrams per day from a normal diet. While not easily absorbed by humans, vanadium is found in foods such as olives, whole grain breads, liver, root vegetables, fish, and vegetable oils.
