Amazing Benefits Of Silicon
Silicon is the second most available element after oxygen found in the earth’s crust, and it is one of the most important elements used in high tech devices and semiconductors. It is a vital trace mineral required by the body for strong and flexible joints, glowing skin, and stronger bones. It is present in the human body in the form of either a derivative of silanate or silicic acid.
Recommended levels of silicon
There is no recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for silicon, since an essential biological role for it has not been identified.
Adult: Adult: 5-20 mg/day, maximum 50 mg/day; up to 700 mg taken without apparent harm. Daily diet normally provides enough to meet requirements.
Food rich in silicon
Food rich in silicon are as follows
Fruits: Apples, cherries, and oranges
Vegetables: Raw cabbages, carrots, onions, cucumbers, and pumpkins
Nuts: Peanuts and almonds
Unrefined products: unrefined cereals and grains
Benefits of silicon
Strengthens Bones
Silicon has been found to play a vital role in assisting calcium for the growth, maintenance, and flexibility of joints and bones.
It induces flexibility in the bones by increasing the amount of collagen, which is the protein component of bones.
It also increases the rate of healing of bone dislocations and fractures. It is necessary for the maintenance of skeletal health.
It elevates the deposition of different minerals like calcium in the bone tissues.
Treats Alopecia
Alopecia (baldness or thinning of hair) is caused due to the intake of a refined diet that lacks nutrients, specifically silicon.
This mineral encourages the growth of thick and healthy hair. It also increases the luster and shine of hair.
Skin Care
Silicon increases the elasticity and strength of the connective tissues of the skin and stops it from aging.
It restores the natural glow of the skin and prevents wrinkles by increasing collagen formation. It helps in brightening the eyes as well.
Prevents Brittle Nails
Silicon plays a very significant role in the maintenance of nail health. It has the ability to strengthen nails and to provide the nail bed with nutrients.
Furthermore, it prevents the problem of brittle nails and infections.
Prevents Atherosclerosis
Silicon supplements help to decrease the formation of plaque. Cholesterol plaques are responsible for hardening of arteries in atherosclerosis which can cause heart attack and stroke.
Restores Mucosa
The health benefits of silicon include the restoration of the mucosa of the respiratory tract if the body is suffering from dehydration.
Promotes Healing
Silicon plays a key role in protection against many diseases like tuberculosis and others which are related to mucous membranes.
It also helps in increasing the healing rate during fractures. Its supplements help reduces the risk of various cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes.
Prevents Aluminum Toxicity
It has been found that higher amounts of aluminum are found in the brain lesions of patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.
Silicon, through its bonding with aluminum, prevents the absorption of the latter in the gastrointestinal tract and can reduce the signs and symptoms of aluminum toxicity.
Symptoms of silicon deficiency
The deficiency symptoms are quite apparent as they are closely associated with the connective tissues. A few of the visible symptoms are as follows
Weak bones
Thinning of the hair
Brittleness of nails
Wrinkle formation