Sulfur dioxide is severely irritating to the eyes, mucous membranes, skin, and respiratory tract. Sulfur is absorbed in the small intestine as cysteine or methionine from protein-rich foods. While sulfur bacteria are not harmful, hydrogen sulfide gas in the air can be harmful at high levels. This overview discusses the sources and health effects of the primary pollutant groups--ozone, sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide (CO), particulates, and other air toxics. One of sulfur’s major health benefits is that it has excellent antioxidant effects. Collagen and keratin—proteins that make up our hair, nails, and skin—rely on sulfur to maintain healthiness. However, since most of the reviewed studies were of poor quality, the review's authors note that "no definitive conclusion can currently be drawn.". Exposure to the toxic chemical may trigger severe respiratory tract irritation, coughing, and shortness of breath. Bronchospasm, pulmonary edema, pneumonitis, and acute airway obstruction can occur. Description and Brand Names ; Before Using; Proper Use; Precautions; Side Effects; Products and services. Balneotherapy for rheumatoid arthritis. Possible chronic health effects include cancer, central nervous system disorders, liver and kidney damage, reproductive disorders, and birth defects. 1. Sulfur Dioxide Effects on Health - Air (U.S. National Park . Sulfur is a mineral involved in various important processes in the body, including making and repairing DNA. While these products are widely available, research on the health benefits of sulfur supplements is limited. Not enough is known about oral supplements to make such a recommendation, though various topical doses have been used in research. Suggested Citation:"4 Health Effects of Sulfur Oxides." Bowel movement changes, such as constipation or diarrhea, may also occur during treatment. The health risks of sulfur dioxide in dried fruit may be severe for those with an allergy or asthma. Cutis. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. It is often combined with salicylic acid. When choosing a supplement, try to look for products that have been certified by ConsumerLabs, the U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention, or NSF International. These organizations also don't guarantee that a product is safe or effective, but they do provide assurance that the product was properly manufactured, contains the ingredients listed on the label, and does not contain harmful levels of contaminants. 2008 Nov;16(11):1277-88. 1 Some proteins contain sulfur in the form of amino acids. Applies to sulfur topical: topical lotion, topical soap Along with its needed effects, sulfur topical may cause some unwanted effects. For others, though, sulfur dioxide is safe. Antioxidants are vital to combat the damage done to the human body by environmental free radicals. Effects of sulfur and salicylic acid in a shampoo base in the treatment of dandruff: a double-blind study using corneocyte counts and clinical grading. Sulfur is a calcium and potassium antagonist and, therefore, high sulfur intake may also aggravate conditions associated with low calcium and potassium levels. An entry published on the open chemistry database Pub Chem reveals that the harmful chemical is commonly used as a preservative and as a disinfectant for food containers and fermentation equipment. 3 Sulfur can kill insects, mites, fungi, and rodents. SULPHUR DIOXIDE (SO2) Even moderate concentrations may result in a decrease in lung function in asthmatics. The human body can make cysteine (provided there is a steady supply of sulfur) whereas methionine can only be obtained from food. Sulfur in the body is mostly found in two amino acids – cysteine (including its oxidized form cystine) and methionine. Sulfur supplements are often used to treat osteoarthritis. The Health Benefits of Getting Enough Lactoferrin in Your Diet, The 8 Best Shampoos for Seborrheic Dermatitis of 2021, The Health Benefits of Collagen Supplements. Most people consume enough sulfur in their diet to meet the body's needs. Hydrogen sulfide gas (H2S) can occur in wells anywhere in Minnesota, and gives the water a characteristic rotten egg taste or odor. The level of exposure depends upon the dose, duration, and … Sulfur dioxide irritates the respiratory tract and increases the risk of tract infections. Small particles may penetrate deeply into the lungs and in sufficient quantity can contribute to health problems. May develop bronchospasm when exposed to sulfur dioxide climate change, pollution, and acute airway obstruction can occur from! 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