Silicon
What is it?
Silicon, the most abundant mineral in the earth's crust, may be an essential element in humans. It is present in bone, blood vessels, cartilage, tendons, skin and hair.
What it does in the body
Silicon is found in areas of active growth inside bones and may be involved in the growth of bone crystals and calcification. Silicon may also play a role in the formation of cartilage and other connective tissue, giving strength and stability. It may help to maintain the elasticity of arterial cell walls.
Deficiencies
Silicon deficiency in animals causes weak and malformed bones of the arms, legs and head. Low silicon levels also lead to atherosclerotic lesions in animals due to its role in artery wall formation. Thus silicon deficiency may play a role in cardiovascular disease.
Sources
Silicon is widely available in food. Good sources include wheat, oats, rice, lettuce, cucumbers, avocados and strawberries. Silicon is easily lost in food processing.
Recommended dietary allowances (RDA)
Average daily intakes of silicon probably range from about 20 to 50 mg per day with the lower values for animal-based diets and the higher values for plant- based diets.
Supplements
Silicon supplements are available in several different forms, including sodium metasilicate and silicic acid.
Toxic effects of excess intake
Silicon is generally regarded as nontoxic.
Therapeutic uses of supplements
Silicon supplements have been used to improve strength in hair, skin and nails.
Silicon may have a role in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis as supplements have been shown to increase bone mineral density.