Boron

What is Boron?

Boron is a trace mineral that has been recognized as an essential nutrient for plants for more than fifty years, but its usefulness in humans was not discovered until the mid-1980s.

Raisins, prunes, and nuts are generally excellent sources of boron. Fruit (other than citrus), vegetables, and legumes also typically contain significant amounts. Actual amounts vary widely, depending upon boron levels in soil where the food is grown.

Recent studies have suggested that boron may play a role in preventing bone-related diseases such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis. In the case of osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis, scientists have found that boron can help improve patient symptoms.

Boron elevates levels of serum oestrogen and ionized calcium (important because women who develop osteoporosis have low levels of these). Boron also helps maintain healthy cell membranes for normal cell function, and facilitates various enzyme reactions for the body. Studies have shown that a deficiency in this mineral may impair mental functioning and depress mental alertness.

The possible benefits of die supplements containing boron include:

• Builds and maintains healthy bones
• Helps prevent bone thinning leading to osteoporosis
• Enhances maintenance of healthy cell membranes
• Maintains proper mental functioning and alertness
• Elevates levels of serum oestrogen and ionized calcium
• Inhibits the development of osteoporosis
• Helps retain adequate amounts of calcium and magnesium to prevent bone demineralization
  

Side Effects and Warnings of Boron

Accidental acute exposure to high levels of boron can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rash, convulsions, and other symptoms.  Although chronic exposures can cause related problems, the small amounts found in supplements have not been linked with toxicity.

The potential lethal dose for adults is estimated to be between 15 and 20 grams/day. The first signs of toxicity were nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea and fatigue.

It has been shown that there is an increased risk of increased oestrogen in some women. This is a concern since theoretically; increased oestrogen may increase the risk of several cancers.

It is important that you seek the advice of your medical practitioner before using Boron supplements especially if you are pregnant.

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