Introduction
Even though silicon is the most abundant mineral on earth, scientists didn’t discover it was essential for the body until very recently. The largest concentrations of silicon are found in the skin and cartilage, but it also occurs in other tissues and organs.
The best food sources of silicon are rice, bran and brown rice. Dietary silicon is also available in other unrefined grain products and in high fiber vegetables. Beer also contains a high concentration of easily absorbable silicon.
Dosage Info
Dosage Range
20-40mg daily.
Most Common Dosage
30mg daily.
Dosage Forms
Tablets, capsules, and liquid drops.
Reported Uses
Although research on silicon is still in the early stages, it is believed that it plays a role in the production of collagen. Collagen provides strength, rigidity, and flexibility to bones, teeth, tendons, ligaments, cell walls and membranes, nails, and skin.
Silicon may also be directly involved in the building of healthy bones, teeth and cartilage. Studies suggest that silicon supplementation may be instrumental in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. (1) , (2)
Silicon may be associated with a decreased risk of atherosclerosis. Studies also suggest that silicon may stimulate the activity of the immune system. (3)
Toxicities & Precautions
Introduction
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General
This dietary supplement is apparently safe and non-toxic when used in accordance with proper dosing guidelines.
Pregnancy / Breast Feeding
To date, the medical literature has not reported any adverse effects related to fetal development during pregnancy or to infants who are breast-fed. Proper nutrition is essential during pregnancy for the healthy development of the fetus. Numerous vitamins and minerals are a vital part of proper nutrition. If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breast-feeding an infant, talk to your healthcare professional about supplementing your diet with appropriate vitamins and minerals.
Age Limitations
To date, the medical literature has not reported any adverse effects specifically related to the use of this dietary supplement in children. Vitamins and minerals are an essential part of proper growth and development. Talk to your healthcare professional about the appropriate use of vitamins and minerals in children. Do not use any vitamin or mineral in children under 2 years of age unless first discussed with your healthcare professional.
References
- View Abstract: Eisinger J, et al. Effects of Silicon, Fluoride, Etidronate and Magnesium on Bone Mineral Density: A Retrospective Study.Magnes Res. Sep1993;6(3):247-49.
- View Abstract: Chapuy MC,et al. Prevention and Treatment of Osteoporosis. Aging (Milano). Aug1995;7(4):164-73.
- View Abstract: Schiano A, et al. Silicon, Bone Tissue and Immunity. Rev Rhum Mal Osteoartic. Sep1979;46(7-9):483-86.