Silicon – The Healing Mineral

Silicon, usually referred to as silica, is present everywhere, making up more than a quarter of the earth’s crust, and it is found abundantly in soil, water, and plant life. The largest concentrations of silicon in the human body are found in the connective tissues such as cartilage and collagen, as well as in the trachea, eyes, tendons, blood vessels, tooth enamel, bone, hair and skin.

Silicon supplementation has shown promise in healing the degradation of joints and cartilage. Because of its effects on the joints, it is being studied as a potential treatment for arthritis.

The positive effects of silicon on the health of connective tissue and joints make it an important nutrient for weight loss, exercise and healthy living. There is evidence to suggest that it may protect people from tendon damage and joint stress during workouts.
 

Food Sources
Since silicon is abundant in soil and plants, most fruits and vegetables contain adequate levels of it.

Recommended Dosage
No Reference Daily Intake (RDI) has been established.

Supplements
Rarely seen as a standalone supplement. It is most commonly used as an essential part of a daily multi-vitamin supplement. The strength most often seen in supplements is from 20 mg to 50 mg.

Side Effects & Toxicity
Known to have somewhat of a blood thinning effect. It achieves this effect by inhibiting the action of magnesium while increasing the retention of sodium. This blood thinning effect means that silicon supplements should not be taken by people with hemophilia or similar blood disorders.

Symptoms of Deficiency
A diet that is deficient in silicon can lead to significant health problems such as stunted growth, improper bone development, and atherosclerotic arterial plaques.