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What is Silicon?

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Silicon is a trace mineral that supports bone health, skin elasticity, and helps strengthen hair and nails by aiding collagen formation in connective tissues. You’ll find silicon naturally in whole grains, vegetables, and certain beverages, with most people easily getting enough through a balanced diet. There’s no established daily requirement, deficiency is rare, and silicon from food sources is generally safe with no known toxicity issues.
Experts

Biomedical scientist Dr. Rhonda Patrick emphasizes the importance of micronutrients for overall health. While she hasn’t specifically discussed silicon, her work suggests that minerals like silicon, which support bone and connective tissue, are crucial for maintaining structural integrity and preventing age-related decline Dietary silicon intake is positively associated with bone mineral density in men and premenopausal women of the Framingham Offspring cohort.

Physician Dr. Peter Attia focuses on longevity and health optimization. He likely values silicon for its role in bone mineralization and connective tissue health, which are key for maintaining physical function and preventing degenerative diseases Absorption of silicon from artesian aquifer water and its impact on bone health in postmenopausal women: a 12 week pilot study.

Nutritionist Dr. Layne Norton specializes in nutrition and fitness. He would probably recognize silicon’s importance for collagen synthesis and bone health, which are particularly relevant for athletes and those focused on physical performance Choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid supplementation as an adjunct to calcium/vitamin D3 stimulates markers of bone formation in osteopenic females: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial.

Optimal

For optimizing brain function and energy, research suggests that silicon intake of 5–40 mg daily may support brain health by reducing aluminum accumulation, which is associated with Alzheimer’s disease Silicon-rich mineral water as a non-invasive test of the ‘aluminum hypothesis’ in Alzheimer’s disease. This range exceeds typical dietary intake and there is no official Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), as the focus is on potential cognitive benefits rather than deficiency prevention. However, higher doses aren’t universally ideal, so consulting a healthcare provider is recommended to tailor this approach safely.

Pregnancy

For pregnancy, research indicates that silicon is likely safe when consumed as part of a normal diet, typically providing adequate levels for maternal and fetal health Serum silicon concentrations in pregnant women and newborn babies. Due to limited studies, specific adjustments to intake aren’t well-established, and there’s no evidence to suggest exceeding normal dietary amounts. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before considering supplementation to ensure safety for both mother and baby.

Optimal Intake (male 85kg/181cm / female 52kg/171cm)

  • Cognitive optimization male: 20-40 mg/day with appropriate cofactors
  • Cognitive optimization female: 20-30 mg/day with appropriate cofactors
  • Energy optimization male: 20-40 mg/day (standard activity), 30-50 mg/day (athletic performance)
  • Energy optimization female: 20-30 mg/day (standard activity), 25-40 mg/day (athletic performance)
  • Optimal blood levels: Not well-established; no standard clinical measurements available

Five best animal sources:

  • Mineral water (high-silicon): 500ml (16.9 oz) provides 5-14 mg (30 mg adequate intake reached with 1.1-3 liters)
  • Fish (with bones): 85g (3 oz) provides 2-5 mg (30 mg adequate intake reached with 18-45 oz)
  • Chicken with skin: 85g (3 oz) provides 1-2 mg (30 mg adequate intake reached with 45-90 oz)
  • Beef: 85g (3 oz) provides 1-2 mg (30 mg adequate intake reached with 45-90 oz)
  • Organ meats: 85g (3 oz) provides 1-2 mg (30 mg adequate intake reached with 45-90 oz)

Five best non-animal sources:

  • Beer: 355ml (12 oz) provides 6-8 mg (30 mg adequate intake reached with 45-60 oz)
  • Green beans: 125g (1 cup) provides 5-7 mg (30 mg adequate intake reached with 4.3-6 cups)
  • Bananas: 1 medium provides 5-6 mg (30 mg adequate intake reached with 5-6 bananas)
  • Brown rice: 195g (1 cup cooked) provides 5-7 mg (30 mg adequate intake reached with 4.3-6 cups)
  • Oats: 40g (1 cup dry) provides 5-7 mg (30 mg adequate intake reached with 4.3-6 cups)

Consistent intake required? Yes, silicon is not significantly stored in the body. Regular intake is essential for maintaining optimal levels for bone, skin, and connective tissue health. Daily consumption through diet is recommended.

Are higher doses dangerous? No established upper limit exists for silicon. The forms found in food and orthosilicic acid supplements are generally considered safe. Excessive intake (multiple grams) of silicon dioxide might cause digestive discomfort, but toxicity is rare with typical dietary or supplement intake.

Optimal timing for intake:

  • Morning: Silicon supplements are often best absorbed in the morning on an empty stomach
  • With meals: Dietary silicon is naturally consumed with meals
  • With collagen: Taking silicon alongside collagen supplements may enhance skin, hair, and joint benefits
  • With calcium/magnesium: Silicon aids in calcium utilization and works synergistically with magnesium

Silicon is the second most abundant element in the Earth’s crust and a trace mineral essential for the human body, particularly for connective tissue, bone, skin, hair, and nail health. Despite its abundance in nature, silicon’s role in human health has been less extensively studied compared to many other minerals.

Silicon exists in the body primarily in two forms:

  • Orthosilicic acid (OSA): The bioavailable form found in fluids
  • Bound silicon: Incorporated into connective tissues, bone, skin, and hair

The body contains approximately 7 grams of silicon, with the highest concentrations found in connective tissues, aorta, trachea, bone, skin, and hair. Silicon levels typically decline with age, which may contribute to age-related changes in these tissues.

According to emerging research, silicon plays a critical role in collagen synthesis, bone mineralization, and connective tissue integrity. Health experts like Dr. Paul Saladino have noted its importance for skin health and joint function, while some research suggests potential roles in cognitive function and cardiovascular health.

Effects at Different Silicon Levels

Section titled Effects at Different Silicon Levels
  • Strong, flexible connective tissue
  • Healthy bone formation and mineralization
  • Optimal collagen synthesis and cross-linking
  • Resilient skin, hair, and nails
  • Healthy arterial function and elasticity
  • Normal joint function and cartilage integrity
  • Proper wound healing
  • Potential support for cognitive function
  • Enhanced calcium utilization
  • Improved immune cell function
  • Reduced collagen synthesis
  • Compromised skin elasticity
  • Brittle nails and hair
  • Reduced bone mineral density
  • Impaired wound healing
  • Joint discomfort
  • Decreased arterial elasticity
  • Slower tissue repair and recovery
  • Potential reduced immune function
  • Possible cognitive impacts (less established)
  • Significantly impaired collagen production
  • Connective tissue weakness
  • Compromised bone structure
  • Poor wound healing
  • Joint dysfunction
  • Skin fragility
  • Kidney stones (theoretical, rare in practice)
  • Potential urinary tract irritation
  • Digestive discomfort with very high supplement doses
  • Respiratory issues from inhaled crystalline silica (industrial exposure, not dietary)

Silicon intake is measured in milligrams (mg).

Age GroupEstimated Adequate Intake (mg/day)
Infants (0-12 months)No established recommendation
Children (1-8 years)5-10*
Children (9-18 years)10-20*
Adult Males20-40*
Adult Females20-30*
Pregnancy20-30*
Lactation20-30*

*Note: Unlike many nutrients, there is no established RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance) for silicon. These values represent estimated adequate intakes based on available research.

Male (85kg, 181cm)

  • Estimated adequate intake: 20-40 mg/day
  • For athletic performance or recovery: 30-50 mg/day
  • For optimal collagen production/skin health: 30-40 mg/day with vitamin C

Female (52kg, 171cm)

  • Estimated adequate intake: 20-30 mg/day
  • For athletic performance or recovery: 25-40 mg/day
  • For optimal collagen production/skin health: 25-35 mg/day with vitamin C

Research on silicon requirements is still evolving. Most people consuming a varied diet with whole foods obtain approximately 20-50 mg daily. According to emerging research, maintaining adequate silicon intake may be particularly important during periods of growth, for older adults, and for those engaged in regular physical activity.

Age GroupUpper Limit (mg/day)
All age groupsNot established

*Note: No official upper intake level has been established for silicon consumption through food or supplements.

Male (85kg, 181cm)

  • No established upper limit: Generally considered safe at normal dietary and supplement levels
  • Very high doses (>100-200 mg/day) from supplements have not been thoroughly studied for long-term safety

Female (52kg, 171cm)

  • No established upper limit: Generally considered safe at normal dietary and supplement levels
  • Same considerations as for males

Note: Silicon as found in foods and orthosilicic acid supplements is generally well-tolerated. While no official upper limit exists, consumption beyond 100 mg/day from supplements has limited research on long-term effects and generally exceeds what’s needed for potential benefits.

Dr. Rhonda Patrick and other researchers note that silicon toxicity from dietary sources or supplements is extremely rare in individuals with normal kidney function.

  • Acute Toxicity: Not established for oral intake of food-derived or supplemental silicon
  • Chronic Toxicity: Rare with oral supplements; excessive intake over extended periods has not been well-studied
  • Inhalation Toxicity: Crystalline silica dust (industrial exposure) can cause silicosis, but this is unrelated to dietary silicon intake

Symptoms of silicon excess are rare from dietary sources or supplements but could theoretically include:

  • Kidney stones (in theory, though silicon may actually help prevent some types)
  • Urinary tract irritation with excessive supplementation
  • Digestive discomfort (with very high supplement doses)
  • Respiratory problems (only with inhaled crystalline silica, an industrial exposure issue)
  • Essential for collagen synthesis and cross-linking
  • Supports elastin formation and function
  • Enhances glycosaminoglycan formation
  • Improves tissue strength and elasticity
  • Supports fascia integrity and function
  • Enhances tendon and ligament resilience
  • May reduce tissue degradation rate
  • Supports overall extracellular matrix structure
  • Facilitates bone mineralization
  • Supports calcium deposition in bone matrix
  • Enhances osteoblast activity
  • May slow bone resorption
  • Improves bone collagen content and cross-linking
  • Potentially reduces fracture risk
  • May help maintain bone density with aging
  • Works synergistically with calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D
  • Supports collagen production for skin elasticity
  • May reduce appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Enhances skin hydration and barrier function
  • Strengthens hair structure and may reduce breakage
  • Contributes to nail strength and growth
  • Potentially reduces brittle hair and nails
  • May enhance wound healing and tissue repair
  • Supports skin’s resilience against environmental damage
  • Maintains arterial wall elasticity
  • Supports endothelial function
  • May help prevent arterial calcification
  • Contributes to healthy blood vessel structure
  • Potentially supports healthy blood pressure
  • May reduce arterial stiffness
  • Helps maintain aortic elasticity with aging
  • Supports overall cardiovascular resilience
  • Supports cartilage formation and maintenance
  • Enhances joint lubricating fluid composition
  • May reduce joint discomfort with aging or activity
  • Contributes to meniscus and cartilage integrity
  • Supports overall joint structural health
  • May enhance recovery from joint stress
  • Works with glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health
  • Potentially reduces age-related joint changes
  • May enhance macrophage activity
  • Supports overall immune cell function
  • Contributes to healthy lymphoid tissue
  • Potentially enhances resistance to infections
  • Supports cellular defense mechanisms
  • May influence inflammatory response regulation
  • Contributes to wound healing immune responses
  • Enhances tissue-specific immune protection

Silicon deficiency is not well-defined clinically, but inadequate levels may contribute to:

  • Poor skin elasticity and premature wrinkles
  • Brittle nails that break easily
  • Hair that lacks luster and strength
  • Slower wound healing and tissue repair
  • Joint discomfort and reduced mobility
  • Reduced bone density and strength
  • Compromised arterial elasticity
  • Slower recovery from physical exertion
  • Potentially impaired immune function
  • Reduced collagen synthesis and quality
  • Compromised connective tissue integrity
  • Increased susceptibility to repetitive stress injuries
  • Poor calcium utilization
  • Potentially affected detoxification processes

Food Sources with Amounts to Meet Requirements

Section titled Food Sources with Amounts to Meet Requirements
FoodServing SizeSilicon Content (mg)Amount to Reach 30 mgAmount to Reach UL (N/A)
Mineral water (high-silicon)500ml (16.9 oz)5-141.1-3 litersN/A
Fish (with bones)85g (3 oz)2-5510-1,275g (18-45 oz)N/A
Chicken with skin85g (3 oz)1-21,275-2,550g (45-90 oz)N/A
Beef85g (3 oz)1-21,275-2,550g (45-90 oz)N/A
Organ meats85g (3 oz)1-21,275-2,550g (45-90 oz)N/A
Eggs1 large0.5-130-60 eggsN/A
FoodServing SizeSilicon Content (mg)Amount to Reach 30 mgAmount to Reach UL (N/A)
Beer355ml (12 oz)6-81,330-1,775ml (45-60 oz)N/A
Green beans125g (1 cup)5-7535-750g (4.3-6 cups)N/A
Bananas1 medium5-65-6 bananasN/A
Brown rice195g (1 cup cooked)5-7840-1,170g (4.3-6 cups)N/A
Oats40g (1 cup dry)5-7170-240g (4.3-6 cups)N/A
Whole grains30g (1 oz)4-6150-225g (5-7.5 oz)N/A
Leafy greens30g (1 cup)3-5180-300g (6-10 cups)N/A
Bell peppers150g (1 cup)2-41,125-2,250g (7.5-15 cups)N/A
Beets136g (1 cup)2-41,020-2,040g (7.5-15 cups)N/A

*Note: Silicon content can vary significantly based on growing conditions, water content, and food processing methods. These values are approximate averages. There is no established UL (Upper Limit) for silicon from food or supplements.

  • Orthosilicic Acid (OSA): Highly bioavailable form, often stabilized with choline or in liquid form. Most efficiently absorbed and utilized by the body.
  • Silicon Dioxide (Silica): Less bioavailable than OSA but still useful. Common in many supplements.
  • Horsetail Extract: Plant-derived source of silicon, standardized to contain specific amounts of silicon/silica.
  • Bamboo Extract: High in natural silicon content, becoming increasingly popular as a supplement.
  • Colloidal Silicon: Suspended silicon particles, variable bioavailability.
  • Silicon-Rich Mineral Waters: Natural sources with good bioavailability.
  • Calcium Silicate: Combined form found in some bone health formulations.

Considerations When Choosing Supplements

Section titled Considerations When Choosing Supplements
  • Bioavailability: Orthosilicic acid has superior absorption compared to silicon dioxide
  • Purpose: Choose OSA for skin and connective tissue, horsetail for general silicon support
  • Dosage: Typical supplement doses range from 5-40 mg elemental silicon
  • Quality: Select brands with third-party testing and standardized silicon content
  • Additional Ingredients: Some formulations include collagen, biotin, or bone-supporting minerals
  • Timing: Morning consumption on an empty stomach may improve absorption
  • Form: Consider liquids for potentially better absorption
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Balance bioavailability with cost, as OSA supplements tend to be more expensive

Some health experts recommend orthosilicic acid stabilized with choline for optimal absorption and utilization, particularly for skin, hair, nail, and connective tissue support.

Silicon Optimization Strategies

Section titled Silicon Optimization Strategies
  • Hydration Status: Maintaining adequate hydration supports silicon absorption and utilization
  • Vitamin C Synergy: Take silicon with vitamin C to enhance collagen production benefits
  • Empty Stomach Option: For supplements, taking on an empty stomach may improve absorption
  • Dietary Balance: Obtaining silicon from varied sources (both plant and animal) may optimize intake
  • Silicon-Rich Water: Some mineral waters contain highly bioavailable silicon
  • Avoid Phytates: Excessive phytate consumption may theoretically reduce mineral absorption including silicon
  • Cooking Methods: Light cooking of vegetables may make silicon more accessible in some cases
  • Digestive Health: Maintaining optimal digestive function supports mineral absorption
  • Whole Foods Focus: Emphasize unprocessed foods that naturally contain silicon
  • Balanced Approach: Include both animal-based and plant-based silicon sources
  • Bone Broth Integration: Regular consumption provides silicon along with complementary nutrients
  • Mineral Water Selection: Choose silicon-rich mineral waters for daily hydration
  • Strategic Plant Foods: Include high-silicon vegetables and fruits regularly
  • Whole Grains: Incorporate brown rice, oats, and other whole grains when appropriate
  • Root Vegetables: Include beets and similar root vegetables in the diet
  • Seasonal Variety: Rotate food choices to ensure diverse silicon intake

Supplement Strategies for Optimal Results

Section titled Supplement Strategies for Optimal Results
  • Form Selection: Choose orthosilicic acid (OSA) for optimal bioavailability
  • Timing Strategy: Take supplements in the morning on an empty stomach
  • Synergistic Formulation: Look for products combining silicon with collagen, biotin, or zinc
  • Cycling Approach: Some practitioners suggest periodic increases in dosage followed by maintenance periods
  • Activity-Based Adjustment: Consider increasing intake during periods of intense physical activity
  • Age-Related Scaling: Silicon needs may increase with age as natural levels decline
  • Targeted Approach: Higher doses may be appropriate when addressing specific concerns (skin, joints, bone health)
  • Collagen: Silicon enhances collagen formation and function
  • Vitamin C: Critical cofactor for collagen synthesis and works synergistically with silicon
  • Calcium: Silicon improves calcium incorporation into bone
  • Magnesium: Works with silicon for optimal connective tissue health
  • Vitamin D: Supports silicon’s role in bone health
  • Vitamin K2: Complements silicon’s effects on calcium utilization
  • Biotin: Partners with silicon for hair and nail health
  • MSM: Complementary for joint and connective tissue support
  • Hyaluronic Acid: Works with silicon for skin hydration and joint lubrication
  • Silicon appears important for fetal development, particularly skeletal formation
  • No specific recommendations exist for increased intake during pregnancy
  • Current research suggests maintaining normal adequate intake is appropriate
  • Generally considered safe when obtained from food sources
  • Supplement use during pregnancy should be discussed with healthcare providers
  • Silicon content in breast milk suggests importance during lactation
  • No evidence of increased requirements during breastfeeding

Medical Conditions Affecting Silicon

Section titled Medical Conditions Affecting Silicon
  • Kidney disease: May affect silicon metabolism and excretion
  • Bone disorders: May increase silicon requirements for optimal bone health
  • Skin conditions: Silicon may be beneficial for certain skin health issues
  • Gastrointestinal disorders: Could potentially affect silicon absorption
  • Autoimmune conditions: Silicon’s role in immune function may be relevant
  • Cardiovascular disease: Silicon’s role in arterial health may be significant
  • Osteoporosis: May benefit from optimal silicon status
  • Currently no significant known interactions between dietary silicon and medications
  • Theoretically, very high doses of silicon supplements could potentially affect absorption of some medications
  • Silicon-rich antacids might affect drug absorption through timing
  • Diuretics may potentially increase silicon excretion
  • Medications affecting bone metabolism may have interactions with silicon’s bone effects
  • Consult healthcare provider when combining silicon supplements with any medications
  • Aim for approximately 20-40 mg of silicon daily through diet and/or supplements
  • Include silicon-rich mineral water as a regular hydration source
  • Consume bone broth 2-3 times weekly for collagen and silicon
  • Consider 10-15 mg of supplemental orthosilicic acid if dietary intake is inadequate
  • Pair silicon intake with adequate protein and vitamin C for collagen production
  • If physically active, consider the higher end of the intake range (30-50 mg)
  • For joint support, combine silicon with glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen
  • For skin health, pair silicon with vitamin C, collagen, and adequate hydration
  • Consider cycling higher supplement doses (20-30 mg) during periods of intensive training or recovery
  • Target approximately 20-30 mg of silicon daily through diet and/or supplements
  • Include green vegetables, whole grains, and mineral water regularly
  • For skin health benefits, consider 10 mg of orthosilicic acid supplementation
  • Combine with collagen peptides for enhanced skin, hair, and nail benefits
  • If concerned with bone health, ensure adequate calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin K2 alongside silicon
  • For active individuals, increase toward 25-40 mg daily
  • Consider higher intake (25-35 mg) during perimenopause and menopause for bone support
  • Pair with biotin for enhanced hair and nail benefits
  • Monitor improvements in skin elasticity, hair strength, and nail growth as indicators of adequate status
  • Sedentary: Standard estimated intake is usually sufficient (20-30 mg)
  • Moderately Active: Increase by 5-10 mg/day
  • Athletic/Intense Training: Increase by 10-15 mg/day
  • Recovery from Injury: Temporary increases of 10-15 mg/day may support connective tissue healing
  • Aging: Consider gradual increase in intake with age as natural silicon levels decline

Silicon for Cognitive Performance

Section titled Silicon for Cognitive Performance
  • Silicon’s role in cognitive function is emerging as an area of research
  • May help with aluminum detoxification in the brain
  • Potential support for neuronal health and function
  • Some research suggests correlation between silicon intake and cognitive preservation
  • May support brain connective tissue and blood vessel health
  • Potentially helps maintain blood-brain barrier integrity
  • Limited but growing evidence for neuroprotective properties
  • May support overall brain aging and resilience
  • Maintain consistent adequate silicon intake through varied diet
  • Consider silicon-rich mineral waters as a regular hydration source
  • Pair silicon with omega-3 fatty acids for potential synergistic brain benefits
  • Ensure adequate complementary nutrients like magnesium and B vitamins
  • For those concerned with cognitive health, aim for the higher end of the intake range
  • Monitor subjective cognitive function with consistent intake
  • Combine with overall brain-healthy lifestyle (sleep, exercise, stress management)
  • Consider orthosilicic acid supplements for potentially enhanced bioavailability

Silicon for Structural Support and Energy

Section titled Silicon for Structural Support and Energy
  • Essential for collagen formation which provides physical infrastructure
  • Supports connective tissue integrity necessary for efficient movement
  • Enhances bone structure for skeletal support
  • Maintains arterial elasticity for optimal circulation
  • Improves joint function for smooth, energy-efficient movement
  • Supports proper fascial function for biomechanical efficiency
  • Enhances tendon and ligament strength for power transfer
  • Contributes to skin and tissue barrier function
  • May support mitochondrial membrane integrity
  • Potentially improves cellular oxygen utilization
  • Supports efficient circulation through vessel elasticity
  • May enhance muscle tissue recovery between efforts
  • Potentially improves calcium handling for cellular energy processes
  • Contributes to efficient biomechanical movement, requiring less energy
  • May support detoxification pathways, preserving cellular energy
  • Enhances overall tissue resilience to physical stress
  • Consistent daily intake through varied diet
  • Consider timing silicon intake to support training recovery
  • Pair with magnesium and B vitamins for energy metabolism support
  • Ensure adequate protein intake for silicon’s structural benefits
  • Consider liquid silicon supplements for potentially enhanced utilization
  • Monitor improvements in recovery and sustained energy with consistent use
  • Adjust intake based on activity levels and recovery needs
  • Focus on both food sources and strategic supplementation when appropriate
  • Emerging research suggests silicon’s importance for physical performance extends beyond just structural support
  • Some practitioners report improved recovery and reduced joint discomfort with optimized silicon status
  • Silicon’s role in maintaining tissue integrity may contribute to long-term athletic sustainability
  • Research on silicon’s role in energy metabolism is still developing but shows promise

Silicon is an often-overlooked mineral that plays crucial roles in connective tissue integrity, bone health, skin elasticity, and potentially cognitive function. Though less studied than many other nutrients, growing evidence suggests its importance for overall structural health and function.

  • Getting Enough: Most people benefit from a varied diet including both plant and animal foods, with consideration for silicon-rich mineral water
  • Avoiding Excess: Toxicity from dietary sources or supplements is rare, with no established upper limit
  • Best Approach: Focus on food sources first, with strategic supplementation when needed for specific goals
  • Form Matters: Orthosilicic acid provides superior bioavailability compared to silicon dioxide
  • Structural Support: Silicon’s benefits for connective tissue, bone, and skin make it valuable for physical resilience
  • Cognitive Potential: Emerging research suggests silicon may support brain health through various mechanisms
  • Synergistic Approach: Combine with appropriate cofactors like vitamin C, collagen, and magnesium for optimal results

Remember that individual nutritional needs vary based on age, activity level, health status, and genetic factors. Silicon requirements may increase with age as natural levels decline. Consult with a healthcare provider before starting high-dose supplementation or if you have underlying health concerns.