Autism and Sulfur Allergy – Part 1

The issue of sulfur sensitivity (referred commonly, but mistakenly as sulfur allergy) to medications or nutritional products that contain sulfur amino acids or other sulfur or sulfate supplements is a confusing topic. Let's tackle 'sulfur allergy' first.

Sulfur is a natural element in the earth's crust, and is found as element 16 on the periodic table of elements. It exists as a crystalline yellow solid in nature, and is referred to as brimstone. As pure sulfur or complexed (bound together or mixed together) with minerals it plays a variety of roles in the natural world. In humans it comprises the sulfur component of cysteine and methionine - two important amino acids in the methylation cycle. Methylation is critical for brain chemical production, immune function, focusing and attention, higher cognitive function and detoxification of cells.

Allergy to sulfur is not possible as it is an integral element of our body. When people refer to sulfur allergy, in medicine this indicates an allergy to sulfa drugs such as Septra and Bactrim. These drugs have a specific chemical called sulfamethoxazole which is the allergy inducing culprit. When these drugs are consumed the chemical constituents break-down and interact with endogenous (self) proteins which can trigger allergic reactions. Individuals with 'sulfa' allergies can have cross-reactivity to other drugs such as diuretics, diabetes and certain anti-inflammatory medications.

If an allergy has been linked to sulfamethoxazole this doesn't mean a person would have allergic reactions to sulfur or sulfate containing supplements such as taurine, methionine, epsom salt (magnesium sulfate), n-acetyl-cysteine, or even heavy metal detoxifying medications such as DMPS or DMSA. However, in the case of DMPS or DMSA a test dose (using a small amount from a capsule) in the mouth to see if an adverse reaction that manifests as inflammation in the gums occurs is not a bad idea prior to using one of these medications long-term. In rare cases some individuals will show an adverse reaction.

Sulfites are preservatives found in certain foods, beverages or medications. Certain people will have sensitivity reactions to sulfites that manifest as itching, rash or respiratory problems. Approximately, 1% of the population in the United States has a sulfite sensitivity while the rate in people with asthma is higher at about 10%.
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