The effect of vanadium compounds on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism disorders

At this stage in the development of nutriciological science, it has not been established if biologically active substances are essential to the human body; however, an explanation of the physiological role of minor biologically active substances is necessary to clarify the qualitative composition of Nutrioma. Of particular interest is the transition metal, vanadium. Adding vanadium to the diet of animals with induced or genetically determined type 2 diabetes mellitus normalizes glucose and blood insulin levels, reduces insulin resistance, promotes β-cell regeneration, and has a beneficial effect on lipid metabolism. Clinical studies of the effectiveness of vanadium are not convincing, in most part, because of their insufficient duration. The review briefly discusses the main mechanisms of the action of vanadium compounds. Therapeutic doses of vanadium compounds may overlap with toxic doses. Organic vanadium compounds could be used in significantly lower doses. The main problem with the possible use of vanadium compounds in antidiabetic therapy is the balance between their beneficial effects and the connected risks of side effects.