Silicon
Our 16th nutrient mineral (in alphabetical
order). Trace element. Chemical symbol:
Si. The second most abundant element on
earth’s crust (first is oxygen). Proven
to be essential to animals (for connective
tissue metabolism and bone development),
and believed to be crucial to human life.
Silicon is found mainly in the skin, tendons,
bones and artery walls.
Functions/Benefits
May help prevent hair loss. May protect
against atherosclerosis. May prevent osteoporosis
by helping the body utilize calcium
in the bones.
Deficiency Symptoms
Unknown, but weakened nails, brittle bones,
and poor skin may be symptoms.
Natural food sources
Whole grains, vegetables, hard drinking
water, seafood.
US RDA: No official figures
EU RDA: No official figures
We need about 20-30 mcg per day. We normally
should get about 200mcg from our normal
diet.
Toxicity
Toxic if inhaled (causes silicosis of the
lungs, a serious disorder). Silicon in our
food is unlikely to be toxic. May contribute
to kidney stones.
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