Yes, sulfur stinks, but it’s crucial for strong bones, a healthy metabolism, and more.

And despite the several ways it benefits overall health, sulfur is hardly ever discussed.

What Is Sulfur?

Grilled salmon steak. Atlantic fish. Gray background. Top view.

Photo:Vladimir Mironov/Getty Images

Sulfur is part of two important amino acids: cysteine and methionine, Peruvemba confirms.

Its also found in amino acids homocysteine and taurine, and needed to make glutathione, a powerfulantioxidant.

Unlike other nutrients, theres no established Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for sulfur.

Beans and legumes

Photo: Alexandra Shytsman

Thats because sulfur is widely available in a variety of foods, says Peruvemba.

Adequate protein intake will often provide enough sulfur in the diet, Newlin emphasizes.

And theres no shortage of tasty ways to include these fiber-filled foods into your daily routine.

Easy chicken recipes - Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Wings

Greg DuPree

Poultry

Poultry like chicken,turkey, and duck are all super sources of sulfur.

This is thanks to their high amino acid and B vitamin content.

Sulfur is often found in animal-based sources like poultry, Peruvemba concurs.

Garlic powder in wooden bowl and bulb of garlic isolated on wooden table background

Everyday better to do everything you love/Getty Images

These ingredients are also famously known for modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation.

An easy way to get sulfur into your diet is by snacking onhummus.

Bothchickpeasand garlic contain the mineral, says Newlin.

salmon-no-white-stuff-GettyImages-998435988

Jacek Chabraszewski/Getty Images

Some of the highest-sulfur seafoodsinclude tuna,salmon, halibut, and mackerel.

These options also offer a healthy dose of anti-inflammatoryomega-3 fatty acidsfurther bolstering your immune response.

Think roasted cauliflower or cabbage steaks drizzled with a creamy tahini dressing.

Nuts and seeds

Tanja Ivanova / Getty Images

Youre getting sulfur from the veggies and the tahini, she says.

scrambled-egg-cooking-mistake: fluffy scrambled eggs on toast

Getty Images

A Guide to Every Type of Broccoli, From Broccoli Rabe to Broccolini—Plus, How to Use Each One

Homemade Dairy Products

Homemade Dairy Products.Ulrich Kerth/Getty Images