Silicon
Characteristics: Silica is a compound that is found all around us in nature, in most rocks, clays, sands and in many plants. Although now known to be an important trace element, historically it was considered more harmful than beneficial to health, as it can cause serious lung disease when inhaled in its crystalline form. Silica has many uses in industry and as a food additive, including as an anti-caking agent. Silicon preparations are used for osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, Alzheimer's disease, to improve skin healing and for disorders of the digestive system. It helps prevent hair loss and improves the quality of hair and nails. Silica supports the production of collagen, which is the most abundant protein in the body.

Absorption: Orthosilicic acid, which is present in drinking water and other liquids, including beer, is considered the most readily available form of silicon for humans. It is stable but polymerizes at higher temperatures and then is not absorbed.

Dietary supplements: Preparations containing silicon usually consist of diatomaceous earth or extracts from bamboo (r. Bambusa) and horsetail (Equisetum arvense).

Natural sources: Silicon is found in foods such as coffee, beer, unfiltered drinking water, cereals, bananas, raisins, beans, lentils and more.

Effect: Silicon participates in the formation of collagen and, together with calcium, helps form cartilage and bones. It is believed to enable the absorption of calcium in the tissues, strengthen bones, prevent osteoporosis, and relieve pain in osteoarthritis and rheumatism. It slows down the aging process (helps prevent oxidative stress and dehydration) and protects the cardiovascular system. Strengthens nails and maintains skin elasticity by synthesizing elastin.

Deficiency: Silicon deficiency usually occurs as a result of inadequately low dietary intake. In developed countries, the most common causes are chronic alcoholism and severe cases of anorexia nervosa. Deficiency is manifested by deterioration of the condition of the skin, hair, and nails. Hair becomes brittle, loses its luster, and falls out, nails become brittle, skin becomes thinner, wrinkles appear, wound healing slows down. Bones are weaker and break more easily. Fatigue, loss of appetite, mood swings and insomnia are also observed.

Recommended daily dose: The daily requirement of silicon for an adult is 20‒50 mg.

Side effects: Silica is considered safe in healthy people. The one we consume through our diet does not accumulate in our body because it is flushed out by the kidneys.

Interaction: Missing information.

Pregnancy: Due to lack of information, use is not recommended.

Breastfeeding: Due to lack of information, use is not recommended.

Warning: People with kidney disease can accumulate silica in the bloodstream. Blood silicon levels may be lower in people who have had their stomachs surgically removed.

Toxicity: A progressive, often fatal lung disease (silicosis) can occur with chronic inhalation of silica dust. This exposure and disease primarily occur in people who work in mining, construction, mining and steel industries.