Health Benefits

Silicon is not present in the body in large amounts, yet is found in virtually every type of tissue in the body. Do not confuse it with silicone. Silicon is also called silica and is a natural substance while silicone is a man-made industrial polymer used in plastic surgery. Silicon is used to keep bones, cartilage, tendons and artery walls healthy and may be beneficial in the treatment of allergies, heartburn and gum disease, as well as supporting the immune system. It is also required to keep nails, hair and skin in good condition and is useful in counteracting the effects of aluminum. Silicon levels drop as we age, and it might therefore be beneficial as an anti-aging component in our diets. A deficiency may result in problems with teeth and bones, as well as hardening of the arteries.

*No RDA for silica has been established. The amounts listed are based on the Food and Nutrition Board’s safe and adequate daily amounts.

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