The Role of Enteric Bacteria in Elemental Sulfur Therapy

Enteric bacteria are those found in the gastrointestinal tract of animals. They are helpful in the metabolism of substrates such as sulfur. They vary in population, type, and species diversity along the gut of their host. Their presence or absence can aid or harm the health of their host. They metabolize better when a suitable substrate is made available, including sulfur. Sulfur-reducing bacteria (SRB) help in the conversion of elemental sulfur into sulfide, sulfite, and sulfate, which are usable by the body for therapeutic purposes. Sulfur is very important in the proper functioning of the body. Hence, it is good for supplements and drugs in treating sulfur-deficiency diseases. The conversion of elemental sulfur to hydrogen sulfide must be regulated to prevent excess production of H
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S, which could be hazardous to health. The amount of sulfur intake must be within the safety limit. The inclusion of elemental sulfur in food has been debated to be safe. Therefore, this review recommends that adhering to the daily requirement will help in the treatment of diseases caused by the deficiency of sulfur in the body. The intake of the right enteric bacteria in the form of probiotics will also help in the metabolism of elemental sulfur in the gastrointestinal tract and make its metabolite (methionine, cysteine) readily available for the proper functioning of the body.