Silicon helps to strengthen bones
Added 27.09.2009
Silicon at a glance
Silicon is one of the most abundant elements on earth that plays an important role in keeping us healthy. Silicon is needed to form collagen in bone and to form connective tissues such as tendons and ligaments. It is also required for the growth of hair, skin and nails. Whole grains, cereals, bell peppers, beans and peas are some sources of silicon, but much of the mineral is lost during the refining process.Are you getting enough silicon?
Significant silicon deficiency is rare but that does not mean we are getting enough. Many researchers believe that we are not getting the optimal daily dose of silicon.Silicon increases bone mineral density
Silicon may be more important than we think for bone health. Researchers so far have found that silicon helps to increase calcium absorption and plays a role in the synthesis of collagen, where calcium is deposited and can strengthen bones. It appears that silicon, along with vitamin D and calcium increases bone mineral density mineralization.What else can silicon do for you?
Other benefits of silicon include:- Protects against osteoarthritis.
- Prevents hair loss and promotes hair growth.
- May play a role in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease.
- May help to delay aging.
- Promotes blood vessel health.
References:
Spector, T.D. & all. "Effect on bone turnover and BMD of low dose oral silicon as an adjunct to calcium/vitamin D3 in a randomized, placebo-controlled trial." Presented at the 27th Annual Meeting of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR). September, 2005.
Eisinger, J. & all. "Effects of silicon, fluoride, etidronate and magnesiliconum on bone mineral density: a retrospective study." 1993.
Loeper, J. & all. "The antiathermatous action of silicon." Atherosclerosis, 33: 397-408. 1979.
Dr. Bo Nielsen's comments:
Silicon has been an overlooked nutrient despite the fact that it is the most common metalloid on earth. However, there is a fast growing recognition of the importance of nourishing and supporting our living bone with silicon and it is now widely viewed as an essential nutrient for healthy bone metabolism. New research indicates that silicon is essential for regulating bone mineralization, supporting calcium and phosphate deposits, reducing the number of osteoclast cells available that destroy existing bone, and increasing the number of osteoblast cells available that reform new bone. A recent study indicates that higher dietary silicon intake is associated with greater BMD in both men and premenopausal women. Today, I recommend all my patients with osteoporosis, as well as those who want to prevent osteoporosis, to add silicon to their vitamin D3, vitamin K2, calcium, magnesium and boron supplements.
