DrFeb
Health Guide

Nickel Sulfate

Nickel is a trace mineral, meaning your body only needs very small amounts of it to function properly. While often associated with jewelry allergies or industrial settings, nickel actually plays a quiet but vital role in your body's chemistry. It is believed to be a component of certain enzymes that help with metabolism and DNA production. While true nickel deficiency is extremely rare (mostly seen in those on total parenteral nutrition), understanding how to get this mineral safely from your diet is key to maintaining that delicate balance of trace nutrients.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Nickel Sulfate
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Nickel Content in Common Foods (mcg per serving)

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Micrograms (mcg)
Food Source →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Enzyme Function: Acts as a cofactor for enzymes like urease, which helps break down urea.
  • Metabolism: Plays a role in processing iron and glucose.
  • Hormone Regulation: May contribute to the proper function of certain hormones.

Deep Dive

Nickel is primarily known for its role in activating urease, an enzyme that breaks down urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide. This process is essential for nitrogen metabolism in the body. While research is ongoing, nickel is also thought to influence the absorption and utilization of other essential minerals like iron and zinc. Because it is so ubiquitous in the environment (water, air, soil), deficiency is incredibly rare, but maintaining a balanced intake through whole foods supports these background biological processes.

Natural Food Sources

Nickel is naturally present in many plant-based foods, particularly those grown in nickel-rich soil. It is often found in legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

FoodAmount% DV
Chocolate (Dark)~150 mcgHigh
Oatmeal~100 mcgHigh
Soybeans~80 mcgMed
Lentils~70 mcgMed
Walnuts~60 mcgMed

Supplementation

You will rarely need a nickel supplement unless prescribed by a doctor for a very specific medical condition (like severe deficiency in clinical nutrition). Most people get plenty from their daily diet. For dietary supplementation, focus on the whole foods listed above.

Top Food Sources

Dark Chocolate
150 mcg per ounce
Oatmeal
100 mcg per cup cooked
Soybeans
80 mcg per cup
Lentils
70 mcg per cup cooked
Walnuts
60 mcg per ounce

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Nickel Sulfate is a chemical compound often used in industrial processes. You should never take it as a standalone supplement. You should get your nickel intake from natural food sources like nuts, chocolate, and beans.
Some multivitamins contain trace amounts of nickel (usually as nickel chloride or sulfate) because it is considered an essential trace mineral. However, most people do not need this added.
Symptoms usually include a red, itchy rash (contact dermatitis) where the skin touches nickel-containing metal. In severe cases of dietary intake, it can cause systemic itching or digestive upset.
Yes, oatmeal is considered a moderate to high source of nickel. This is generally good for nutritional balance, but those with a nickel allergy are often advised to limit oatmeal intake.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety First

Nickel is generally safe when consumed in amounts found in food. However, because it is a common allergen, caution is needed.

Who should be careful?

  • People with Nickel Allergy: This is common (contact dermatitis from jewelry or belt buckles). These individuals often need to follow a low-nickel diet to avoid rashes and systemic reactions.
  • Kidney Patients: Impaired kidneys may struggle to excrete excess nickel.

Potential Side Effects of High Intake:

  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Headaches.
  • Skin rashes (dermatitis).
  • Lung issues (if inhaled, not ingested).

Chemical Safety Note: Nickel Sulfate is classified as a chemical sensitizer and potential carcinogen in high industrial concentrations. It should never be used as a DIY home supplement or applied to the skin. Always rely on natural food sources.

Scientific References

  • [1]Nielsen, F. H. (1996). 'Other trace elements.' In *Present Knowledge in Nutrition*.
  • [2]Anke, M., et al. (2007). 'Nickel: An essential element with a variable metabolic role.'
  • [3]World Health Organization (WHO). 'Nickel in Drinking-Water.'