Nickel is an essential trace mineral found in the body.
High concentrations of nickel are found in genetic material and it may be involved in protein structure and function. It may play a role in hormone function, and may activate certain enzymes related to the breakdown or utilization of glucose. Human and animal tests show that nickel may be a factor in hormone, lipid and membrane metabolism and cell membrane integrity. Significant amounts are found in DNA and RNA and nickel may act as a stabilizer of these nucleic acids.
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Human requirement for Ni probably does not exceed 100 mcg/day. Average intakes of Western-based diet ranges from 60-260 mcg/day. Ni, demonstrated through animal and human tests, plays a role in hormone and lipid and membrane metabolism.2 It can act as an activator of certain enzymes and may be involved in glucose metabolism.2 The oral toxic dose is about 1,000 times the amount consumed in food.
Technicals: The average adult body contains about 10 mg of nickel and it is found in many body tissues. Nickel is poorly absorbed from the gut and is carried in the body attached to a carrier protein. Most nickel is eliminated in the feces, some in urine and some in sweat.
Sources: Vegetables usually contain more nickel than other foods. High levels have been found in legumes, spinach, lettuce and nuts.
Synergist: Lowers requirement for B12
Signs or Symptoms of a Deficiency: Nickel deficiency in animals leads to decreased growth, dermatitis, pigment changes, liver damage and reproductive abnormalities. Low blood levels of nickel may be found in those with liver and kidney disease and B-12 deficiency symptoms.
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