Trace Elements: The Benefits Of Silicon For Our Body

The trace element silicon is recognized as an element of life, without which humans cannot live.

In our body, silicon is stored in connective tissue (cartilage, tendons), the aorta, bones, tooth enamel, and the pancreas.

Why does a person need silicon?

Silicon compounds are essential for the normal development and functioning of connective and epithelial tissues. Silicon also contributes to collagen synthesis and bone formation (after a fracture, the amount of silicon in the bone callus increases almost 50 times).
Silicon is necessary for the normal course of fat metabolism. Silicon in the walls of blood vessels prevents the penetration of fats into the blood plasma and their deposition in the vascular wall, which reduces the risk of atherosclerosis.

It has a vasodilating effect and therefore helps to reduce blood pressure.

It also improves iron absorption, stimulates the immune system, and prevents degenerative changes in the nervous system.

The daily requirement is 20-30 mg daily.

Symptoms of silicon deficiency:

1. Weakening of connective tissue in the bronchopulmonary system, ligaments, and cartilage.
2. Weakness of bone tissue leads to the development of osteoporosis and fractures.
3. Hair fragility and loss.
4. Increased cholesterol levels, and early development of atherosclerosis.

The causes of silicon deficiency in the body are simple:

1. Insufficient intake of food.
2. Excessive consumption of silicon as a result of rapid growth, and physical overload.
3. Disorders of silicon metabolism.

Pathological conditions associated with excessive silicon intake may occur:

Toxicity is caused by doses of silicon of 500 mg per day.

The main cause of excess silicon is professional activities related to the mining industry, and contact with cement, asbestos, glass, and aerosols.

There is a risk of acquiring a serious disease – silicosis, which destroys lung tissue, due to inhalation of highly dispersed silicon particles formed during blasting, rock excavation in mines, etc. A respirator is used for protection.
Symptoms of excess silicon include urolithiasis, pulmonary fibrosis, and malignant tumors in the abdominal cavity and pleura.

Macronutrient Silicon is contained in:

• Black currant.
• In radish, cauliflower, and turnip.
• Dandelion.
• Borago (cucumber grass).
• Burdock roots.

The record holder for the content of the macronutrient Silicon: is Jerusalem artichoke (earthen pear).