Silicon is known as a beautifying mineral and there are also many health benefits associated with it. It not only causes the strengthening of connective tissues and bones, but is also useful in taking care of nails, hair and skin. The health benefits of silicon also play a vital role in the prevention of atherosclerosis, insomnia, skin disorders and tuberculosis.
Silicon is the second most available element found in the earth’s crust, and it is one of the most important elements used in high tech devices and semiconductors. Silicon is a vital trace mineral required by the body for strong and flexible joints, glowing skin and stronger bones. It is basically present in the human body in the form of either a derivative of silanate or silicic acid. It is also necessary in the diet as it increases the overall benefits of vitamin D, glucosomine and calcium.
Deficiency Symptoms
The deficiency symptoms of silicon are quite apparent as they are closely associated with the connective tissues. Along with the poor development of bones, this deficiency also causes thinning of the hair, brittleness of nails, formation of wrinkles and general aging of the skin.
Important Sources
The most important sources of silicon are apples, raw cabbage, carrots, onions, cucumber, pumpkin, honey, oats, almonds and oranges. Higher quantities are found in hard water and comparatively less in soft water.
Health Benefits of Silicon
After oxygen, silicon is the most abundant element present in the earth’s crust. It is present in clay and sand and also exists as a major part of rocks like quartz and granite.
Earlier in human history, silicon was not regarded as a physiologically important element due to its substantial presence in the animal and plant tissues. However, with ongoing research, the health benefits of silicon have been clearly demonstrated.
Prevents Deformities in Bones: Silicon has been found to play a vital role in assisting calcium for the growth and maintenance of joints and bones. It induces flexibility in the bones by increasing the amount of collagen, which is the protein component of bones. It also increases the rate of healing of bone dislocations and fractures.
Prevents Alopecia: Alopecia, or thinning of hair, is caused due to the intake of a refined diet that lacks nutrients, specifically silicon. The health benefits of silicon encourage the growth of thick and healthy hair. It also increases the luster and shine of hair.
Helps Strengthen Bones: Silicon is necessary for the maintenance of skeletal health. It elevates the deposition of different minerals like calcium in the bone tissues.
Maintains Skin Appearance: Silicon prevents the skin from becoming flabby and restores the natural glow of the skin. It helps in brightening the eyes as well. It also prevents several serious skin problems.
Helps the Healing Process: Silicon plays a key role in protection against many diseases like tuberculosis and the others which are related to mucous membranes. It also helps in increasing the healing rate during fractures.
Prevents Aluminum Toxicity: It has been found that higher amounts of aluminum are found in the brain lesions of patients suffering from the Alzheimer’s disease. It has been discovered that silicon, through its bonding with aluminum, prevents the absorption of the latter in the gastrointestinal tract, and can reduce the signs and symptoms of aluminum toxicity.
Restores Mucosa: The health benefits of silicon include the restoration of mucosa of the respiratory tract if the body is suffering from dehydration.
Prevents Brittle Nails: Silicon plays a very significant role in the maintenance of nail health. Silicon helps in improving the quality of nails and protecting them against several nail infections so your fingers remain attractive and strong.
Prevents Atherosclerosis: The formation of hard plaque in the arteries causes atherosclerosis. It further leads to the obstruction of blood flow as the scar tissue and oxidized cholesterol inhibits the circulation of blood. The recent researches on rabbits have revealed that silicon supplements decrease the formation of plaque, and subsequently reduces the risk of various cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.
