Skip to main content

Mineral

Vanadium

Also known as: Vanadium Amino Acid Chelate, Vanadyl Sulfate, Vanadium Picolinate, VO4

C
Evidence

Vanadium is a trace mineral that may support insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, though human evidence remains preliminary. It is often included in multivitamins at very low doses with limited clinical validation in humans.

Primary uses

  • Glucose metabolism support
  • Insulin sensitivity
  • Blood sugar regulation

How it works

  • May enhance insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in muscle and adipose tissue
  • Potential tyrosine kinase inhibition affecting insulin signaling pathways
  • May activate glucose transporter translocation

Dosage

Typical range
10-30 mcg daily (multivitamin form); research doses 25-150 mg daily
Timing
With meals
With food
Recommended—may enhance absorption and reduce GI upset
Duration
Long-term safety and efficacy beyond 8-12 weeks not well-established
Special populations
Pregnant/nursing women should avoid; diabetics should consult physician before supplementing due to potential additive insulin effects

Forms

  • Vanadium Amino Acid Chelate· 70/100
  • Vanadyl Sulfate· 70/100
  • Vanadium Picolinate· 70/100
  • Vanadium Citrate· 70/100

Safety

Common side effects

  • GI upset at higher doses
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal discomfort
  • Diarrhea (with high-dose supplementation)

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and lactation
  • Renal impairment (potential accumulation)
  • Diabetes (risk of hypoglycemia if combined with medications)
  • Thyroid disorders (vanadium may affect thyroid function)

Evidence notes

Most human evidence comes from small, short-term studies with mixed results. Animal studies show promise for glucose control, but clinical efficacy in humans at typical supplemental doses is not well-established. Lacks large-scale RCT support in humans.

Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.

Related in Mineral

Check a full stack

Formulate's free interaction checker lets you paste in any combination of supplements and medications at once — every pairing flags severity, timing, and cited evidence.

Open the checker

Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider.