Health Guide
Tellurium
Tellurium is a rare, brittle, crystalline metalloid that is chemically similar to selenium. While it is not officially classified as an 'essential' nutrient for humans (meaning we don't strictly need it to survive), it plays a fascinating role in biological systems and is often compared to its periodic table neighbor, sulfur. You might find it listed in some advanced multivitamins or trace mineral blends, largely due to its historical use in medicine and its relationship with selenium metabolism. It's important to understand that this is not a nutrient you should actively seek out in high doses, but rather one that highlights the importance of balance in our environment and diet.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
VERIFIED SOURCE
Bio-Activity Analysis
Toxicity Threshold vs. Benefit (Theoretical)
SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION
Y-Axis
Effect on Body
Intake Level →
Health Benefits & Sources
Why It's Discussed
[Benefits are nuanced and largely based on historical/animal research, not standard human supplementation.]
Deep Dive
- Historical Antimicrobial Use: In the early 20th century, organic tellurium compounds (like Tellurium dioxide) were actually used to treat conditions like trench mouth and skin infections. They have potent antibacterial and antifungal properties, though they have been replaced by safer, more effective modern antibiotics.
- Potential Anti-Cancer Properties: Preliminary research suggests that certain tellurium compounds may induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells and inhibit tumor growth. However, this is strictly in the laboratory/animal stage and is not a current cancer treatment.
- Neuroprotective Effects: Some animal studies indicate that organic tellurium compounds might protect brain cells from oxidative stress and damage, potentially offering insights into treating neurodegenerative diseases in the future.
- Selenium Metabolism: Tellurium can interfere with how the body processes selenium. While this is usually a negative interaction, researchers study it to understand how these elements balance each other out in the body.
Natural Food Sources
Tellurium is found in trace amounts in the earth's crust. It enters the food chain through soil and water. Because it is not essential, there is no Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA).
| Food | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brazil Nuts | Trace | Highly variable; depends on soil content. |
| Garlic & Onions | Trace | Absorbs sulfur/trace minerals from soil. |
| Sea Salt / Seafood | Trace | Derived from ocean water. |
| Whole Grains | Trace | Absorbed from the soil during growth. |
Supplementation
Do not supplement Tellurium. There are no standard commercial supplements intended for human consumption of pure Tellurium due to its toxicity profile. If you see it in a blend, it is likely an impurity or a very specific trace mineral formula that should be used only under strict medical supervision.
Top Food Sources
Brazil Nuts
Variable soil content.
Garlic
Absorbs soil minerals.
Sea Salt
Ocean derived.
Fish
Bioaccumulation.
Whole Grains
From soil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your body cannot easily excrete tellurium, so it metabolizes it into volatile compounds like dimethyl telluride. This gas is exhaled through your lungs, creating a distinct sweet, garlicky odor that can persist for days or weeks.
You might see it listed in ultra-trace mineral blends, but it is usually an impurity from the manufacturing process rather than an intentional ingredient. It has no established health benefit for supplementation.
Yes. They are both in Group 16 of the periodic table (chalcogens). While Selenium is an essential nutrient (important for thyroid and antioxidant function), Tellurium is not and is generally much more toxic.
Contact Poison Control or seek medical attention immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.
Safety & Side Effects
WARNING: Tellurium is toxic to humans in high concentrations.
- Who Should Avoid: Everyone should avoid taking Tellurium as a targeted supplement.
- Side Effects: The most famous sign of tellurium toxicity is 'Garlic Breath' (a distinct, sweet garlic-like odor on the breath and sweat) caused by the body metabolizing it into dimethyl telluride.
- Severe Toxicity: Can cause kidney damage, liver damage, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage), and respiratory irritation. It inhibits key enzymes in the body similar to heavy metals like mercury and lead.
- Interaction: It competes with Selenium and Sulfur absorption, potentially causing a selenium deficiency if tellurium levels are high.
Scientific References
- [1]Nogueira, C. M., et al. (2004). 'Tellurium compounds: Environmental chemistry and toxicology.' *Journal of Applied Toxicology*.
- [2]Cunha, R. L. O. R., et al. (2005). 'Organotellurium compounds: A new class of potential anticancer agents.' *Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry*.
- [3]Sadhukhan, P. C., et al. (1996). 'Tellurium toxicity: A review.' *Veterinary and Human Toxicology*.