Silicon dioxide (SiO2), commonly known as silica, is the natural form of silicon found in food. This essential element plays a critical role in various bodily functions, contributing significantly to bone development, connective tissue formation, gene expression, and cardiovascular health. The importance of silicon in bone mineralization and soft tissue growth is well-documented, but recent research highlights its potential therapeutic effects on a range of human disorders.
One of the significant benefits of silicon is its role in preventing osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened bones. Silicon enhances the deposition of calcium and other minerals into the bone matrix, thereby improving bone density and strength. Furthermore, silicon is vital for the healthy aging of skin, hair, and nails. It promotes the synthesis of collagen, a protein essential for maintaining skin elasticity and hydration, as well as for the strength and resilience of hair and nails. Silicon also helps combat atherosclerosis by preventing the hardening and narrowing of arteries, thus supporting cardiovascular health.
In our diet, silicon exists in various forms, including silicic acid, silicon dioxide (silica), and silicates. Plant-based foods are generally richer in silicon compared to animal-based foods. Among cereals, particularly those that are less refined, such as oat-based products, silicon concentrations are highest. The silicon content in fruits and vegetables varies significantly; Kenyan beans, French beans, runner beans, spinach, dried fruit, bananas, and red lentils are particularly rich in silicon, whereas tomatoes, oranges, and onions contain undetectable levels.
Silicic acid, a soluble form of silicon, is prevalent in water and beverages, with beer being notably rich in this form due to its whole-grain cereal content. The silicon content in drinking water can also vary, with some mineral waters having relatively high levels. Plants absorb silicic acid from the soil, which then undergoes polymerization to form solid silica bodies, silica cells, or phytoliths, which contribute to the structural integrity of plants.
In conclusion, silicon is a vital element for human health, supporting bone and connective tissue health, skin, hair, and nails, and cardiovascular functions. Its presence in various foods, particularly plant-based ones, underscores the importance of a balanced diet in ensuring adequate silicon intake. As research continues to uncover its benefits, silicon's role in preventing and managing health disorders will likely become even more pronounced.
Silicon Dioxide: Essential Nutrient for Bone Health and Beyond
Nutrition is a science, a field of knowledge composed of organized facts. The study includes in areas, such as clinical nutrition, community nutrition, public health and food policy and food science. Nutrition too is a science of how the body use food. Nutrition is life. The science of nutrition helps us improve our food choices by identifying the amounts of nutrients we need, the best food sources of those nutrients, and the other components in foods that may be helpful or harmful.
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