Explain the role of sulfur in human nutrition

Answer 1

Sulfur is a component of certain amino acids (e.g., cysteine and methionine) in the body. Sulfur-containing amino acids give many proteins structural rigidity. As such, they are necessary to healthy joints, hair, skin, and nails. It is not surprising that protein-rich foods provide the body with generous amounts of sulfur. Sometimes, dissolved sulfur is detectable in drinking water by its egg-like (but harmless) odor and taste. Certain juices, beers, wines, and ciders contain sulfur, and sulfur-containing agents are added to some dried foods to preserve their freshness and color.Adequate sulfur intake enables the synthesis of compounds that construct healthy connective tissue and facilitate nerve function. Sulfur is also an important component of the B vitamins thiamin and biotin, and is therefore essential to energy metabolism. Sulfur requirements are easily met when adequate amounts of sulfur-containing amino acids are consumed. The Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) committee took this into account when developing intake recommendations for protein and decided not to publish additional DRI values for sulfur.