After oxygen, silicon is the most abundant element in nature. Because it is a metalloid, silicon has many industrial uses, including as an additive in the food and beverage industry. As a result, individuals are exposed to silicon through the environment, silicon manufacturing, and food sources.
Additionally, many silicon compounds, specifically Si linked to oxygen, are water soluble, absorbable, and may be accessible to people, suggesting that they have a biological function. However, the precise biochemical or physiological roles of silicon, if any, remain largely unknown. To learn more, here's how silicon can affect our health.
Research into the possible health benefits of water-soluble silica is becoming increasingly popular. For instance, it has been proposed that silicon plays a part in immune system health, atherosclerosis risk reduction, reduced metal accumulation in Alzheimer's disease, structural integrity of nails, hair, and skin, overall collagen synthesis, bone mineralization, and bone health.
Although recent studies seem promising, much more corroborating research is required, especially on the speciation of silicon's health-promoting forms and its bioavailability.
Orthosilicic acid is the main form of bioavailable silicon, and it plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin, hair, nails, and bones. It is involved in collagen synthesis, bone formation, and mineralization. Supplementation with orthosilicic acid has potential anti-aging effects and can improve skin elasticity, hydration, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Orthosilicic acid may also have a positive impact on cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and lowering systolic blood pressure. Additionally, it has been linked to increased bone mineral density and a reduced risk of fractures, suggesting it is an important nutrient for promoting overall health and well-being.
Despite the common perception of silica as a health hazard, research suggests that the different forms of silicon mentioned above could be beneficial to human health when absorbed. In fact, the amount of silicon contributed by food sources is significant enough to have a substantial impact on overall health
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