Silicon

What is Silicon?

Silicon is a trace mineral whose functions are not well understood. Silicon is present in areas of bone that are undergoing mineralization, which indicates this mineral might be important for normal bone function.

Silicon has been recently regarded as an essential mineral required by the body. It is needed for the optimal growth and efficient production of mucopolysaccharides and collagen in connective tissues.

It helps increase the strength and reduce the permeability of the extra-cellular matrix in connective tissues including the arteries, trachea, tendon, bone, teeth and skin. It also has a catalytic role in the mineralization of new bones. Silicon therefore facilitates the healing process in the body and helps to build the immune system.

Silicon is a beneficial mineral and some of the important issues that can be taken care of include:

• Hair loss – Silicon helps hair grow thicker and stronger
• Irritation in mucous membranes 
• Skin problems 
• Helps nails grow harder and faster.
• Silicon helps maintain bone density and strength by facilitating the deposit of calcium and other minerals into bone tissue.
• Problems related to sleep.
• Silicon is essential for the strength and integrity of the arteries, thus helps maintain proper cardiovascular health.
  

Good food sources of silicon include cereals, apples, oranges, cherries, raisins, almonds, peanuts, raw cabbage, onions, carrots, brinjal, pumpkin, cucumber, fish, honey, oats, unrefined grains/cereals with high fibre content, nuts and seeds.

Side Effects and Warnings of Silicon

The chief symptom of silicon deficiency is sensitiveness to cold - one always feels cold even in the hot months. Other common silicon deficiencies include: Ageing sign of the skin e.g. looseness, wrinkles, loss of hair accompanied by thinning, poor bone development or nails which are brittle

Excessive silicon intake is generally regarded as non-toxic. However, in some patients high levels of Silicon has been associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Toxicity of silicon can also lead to chronic fibrosis of the lungs. Inhalation of large amounts of silicon (in an industrial setting) can cause the respiratory disease silicosis.

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