Silica
What is Silica?
Silica, also known as silicon dioxide, is a trace mineral essential for overall health.
It's naturally found in many plants, whole grains, and water sources.
Plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin, hair, bones, and connective tissues.
What does Silica do in our body?
Helps in the production of collagen, which is essential for skin elasticity and joint health.
Contributes to bone mineralization, improving bone density and strength.
Supports hair and nail growth, giving them a shiny, strong appearance.
Enhances the integrity of connective tissues such as tendons, cartilage, and blood vessels.
Acts as a detoxifier, aiding in the removal of toxins from the body.
Major Warning Signs of Silica Deficiency
Brittle nails and hair prone to breakage.
Premature aging signs such as wrinkles and sagging skin.
Frequent joint pain or stiffness, especially in the knees and lower back.
Poor wound healing or scar formation.
Other Deficiency Symptoms in Silica
Weak, thinning bones, potentially leading to osteoporosis.
Loss of skin elasticity, leading to sagging and wrinkles.
Weak or damaged connective tissues, resulting in sprains and strains.
Increased risk of hair thinning or hair loss.
Silica Deficiency in the Immune System
Reduced efficiency in detoxification, making the body more susceptible to infections.
Delayed wound healing, affecting the body's ability to repair after illness or injury.
Silica Deficiency in the Cardiovascular System
Weakening of blood vessel walls, which may lead to poor circulation or varicose veins.
Increased risk of developing cardiovascular issues due to poor artery health.
Silica Deficiency in the Integumentary System
Skin becomes dry, dull, and prone to wrinkles.
Reduced collagen production leading to loss of firmness and elasticity.
Slower hair growth and increased hair breakage or loss.
Silica Deficiency in the Lymphatic System
Decreased ability to eliminate toxins and waste from the body.
Reduced lymphatic flow, leading to fluid retention and swelling in tissues.
Silica Deficiency in the Endocrine System
Potential disturbances in hormone regulation, especially related to tissue repair and regeneration.
A possible impact on thyroid function due to connective tissue weakness.
Silica Deficiency in the Muscular System
Reduced muscle strength and endurance due to weakened connective tissues.
Increased risk of injury from muscle tears or strains.
Silica Deficiency in the Digestive System
Impaired absorption of nutrients due to weakened intestinal lining.
Potential for leaky gut syndrome, where the gut lining becomes more permeable.
Silica Deficiency in the Nervous System
Possible contribution to nervous tissue degeneration, leading to cognitive decline or nerve damage.
May affect neurotransmitter balance, influencing mood or focus.
Silica Deficiency in the Skeletal System
Weak bones that are more prone to fractures.
Delayed bone healing after injury or surgery.
Increased risk of developing osteoporosis or other bone-related conditions.
Silica Deficiency in the Thyroid Pathway
Disruption in the synthesis of thyroid hormones, affecting metabolism and energy levels.
Could contribute to conditions like hypothyroidism due to weakened gland function.
Silica Deficiency in the Liver
Reduced liver detoxification efficiency, leading to a buildup of toxins.
May hinder the liver’s ability to regenerate and repair itself.
Causes of Silica Deficiency
Poor diet lacking in whole grains, vegetables, and other silica-rich foods.
Excessive consumption of processed foods, which are low in trace minerals.
Age-related decline in silica absorption or tissue usage.
Environmental factors like pollution, which can deplete mineral stores.
Physical Ailments Requiring More Silica
Osteoporosis or frequent bone fractures.
Joint disorders such as arthritis or tendonitis.
Skin conditions like eczema or premature aging.
Hair thinning or severe hair loss.
Weak nails prone to splitting or breaking.
Medications that Deplete Silica
Diuretics, which increase mineral loss through urine.
Antacids that interfere with nutrient absorption.
Corticosteroids, which may affect collagen production and connective tissue health.
Natural Supplements that Deplete Silica
Excess calcium or magnesium supplements can inhibit silica absorption.
High doses of phosphorus can interfere with silica’s role in bone health.
Testing Silica Levels
Currently, there are no common, direct tests for silica levels in the body.
Health assessments based on symptoms, dietary analysis, and overall bone and tissue health are used.
Testing bone density and collagen levels can indicate potential silica deficiency.
Daily Requirements of Silica
No official daily recommended intake for silica, but an estimated range is between 10-40 mg/day.
Optimal intake may vary based on age, gender, and individual health conditions.
Co-Factors Required for Silica Absorption
Vitamin C: Essential for collagen production and helps enhance silica’s role in connective tissue health.
Calcium: Works together with silica to strengthen bones.
Magnesium: Supports silica in maintaining healthy bones and tissues.
Foods high in Silica
Oats, barley, and whole grains.
Bananas, green beans, and leafy greens.
Cucumbers and bell peppers.
Nuts and seeds.
Mineral-rich drinking water (silica-enriched water).
Things that affect the amount of Silica in our food
Soil quality: Plants grown in mineral-depleted soil have lower silica content.
Processing: Refining grains removes the silica-rich outer husk.
Storage: Some silica can degrade in foods that are stored for long periods.
Other Random Information about Silica
Silica is often used in skincare products due to its ability to promote collagen production and skin elasticity.
Silicon dioxide is a common food additive used to prevent clumping in powdered products.
Research is ongoing into silica’s potential benefits for brain health and Alzheimer’s prevention.
Bamboo extract is a popular supplement source of silica, often used for hair, skin, and nail support.
Final Thoughts…
My son had a hair analysis when he was 10 and was shown to be extremely high in Aluminium. Silica is the opposing mineral for Aluminium, so if you are low in this then the heavy metal has a chance to hang around in the body causing irritation to the brain (which is why it is beneficial for brain health and Alzheimer’s).
