Silicon
Silicon is the 2nd most abundant element in the earth’s crust (after oxygen) and an essential element for both animals and plants. There is nothing unsafe about oral intake of silicon dioxide, as it is essentially natural “sand.” In an industrial setting it could be a problem if someone were inhaling it in large amounts (it could irritate the lungs). Orally, it isn’t unsafe as it is typically used. Due to a lack of data indicating adverse effects of silicon, no UL has been established.
Silicon dioxide and calcium silicate are both sources silicon and also act as a tablet disintegrant.
Several biological roles for silicon have been defined. The most important functions appear to be in the growth and development of bone, cartilage, and connective tissue, where silicon plays both a metabolic and structural role. In bone, silicon is localized in the active growth areas where it is thought to promote growth and hasten mineralization.
Collagen is the protein matrix found in connective tissue and cartilage, and it is the single most abundant protein in the human body. Silicon promotes the synthesis of proline and hydroxyproline, principal amino acids in the structure of collagen. Silicon is a component of proteoglycan complexes that interlace with collagen and contribute to structural integrity. Some researchers have theorized that silicon-oxygen bridges (-O-Si-O-) – the foundational molecule of quartz – may also play a structural role in certain mucopolysaccharides found in connective tissues.
Dietary silicon appears to be well-absorbed. Beverages (including beer and coffee), grain, grain products and vegetables are the best food sources of silicon.
