If you’re wondering what benefits organic silicon offers, and which form is the best, read on for our summary of this valuable trace-element.
With the chemical symbol Si, silicon has the atomic number 14 in the periodic table. Representing around 26% of the Earth’s crust, it is the planet’s second most abundant element after oxygen (1). It does not, however, exist in a free state in nature but in a compound form, combined with other atoms.
The adult human body contains around 7g of silicon. Concentrated in various tissues (the skin, arteries, thymus …), it is also a trace element that’s important for health. As silicon cannot be produced by the body, it is essentially obtained from the diet, from sources such as mineral water, whole grains, pulses, lettuce, and almonds … (2)
Two main forms of silicon are present in our environment (3):
Organic silicon preserves the skin’s youthfulness and radiance by reducing wrinkles and maintaining hydration. It also plays a role in ensuring beautiful nails and hair (4). As our silicon reserves unfortunately diminish over time, it constitutes an invaluable aid to mature skin.
By way of example, one study of 50 women with sun-damaged skin showed a clear improvement in skin texture following supplementation with a particular form of organic silicon called orthosilicic acid (5).
A key component of bone and connective tissue, organic silicon supports calcium binding. It is found in the osteoid border, where bone is built (6).
Several studies have also examined the effects of increased intake of dietary silicon on bone mineral density in perimenopausal women (7). A number of tests on laboratory animals are also investigating the effects of a lack of silicon on skeleton formation (8).
A key immune system organ, the thymus contains a significant level of silicon. Located in the upper chest area between the lungs, the thymus gland is involved, in particular, in the maturation of T-lymphocytes (9-10).
Did you know that one of the highest concentrations of organic silicon is found in the aorta? As the body’s main artery, this complex structure distributes oxygenated blood from the heart to the organs.
Closely linked to the production of elastin, silicon is believed to modulate the elasticity of blood vessels (11). And as we know, rigidity of artery walls is a key risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
A number of studies have looked at the interactions between aluminum and silicon, and the potential ‘buffer’ effect of the latter on the former (12).
Part of the family of heavy metals, aluminum has a tendency to accumulate in tissues such as the bones, liver, lungs and brain. Known to be toxic at high doses, it may play a role in the development of certain neurological disorders, particularly in people with kidney failure (13).
Keen to start supplementing with organic silicon but unsure as to which form to choose?
Three forms are generally used in the production of dietary supplements : solid silicon (silicon dioxide), silicic acid gel and liquid silicon (stabilised orthosilicic acid). However, they do not all offer the same degree of bioavailability.
Stabilised orthosilicic acid is to date the most beneficial form for health because of its high qualitycholine, which itself already serves as a nutrient for cells, but which acts here as a stabiliser, preventing the polymerisation of the orthosilicic acid (in other words, its conversion into substances with a higher molecular mass) (15).
Without choline, the unstable orthosilicic acid would be partly converted into silica gel. This stabilisation thus ensures better absorption in the gut for maximum efficacy.
Stabilised by the addition of choline, the liquid silicon supplement Orthosilicic Acid benefits from a synergy of vitamins and minerals which boosts its effects in the body. It contains, in particular, vitamin B12, boron, manganese, zinc (which supports healthy skin and nails) and selenium (which helps to maintain healthy hair and nails) (16-17).
It is also notable for its content of L-carnitine (present in mitochondria, the cells’ powerhouses), and MSM (a precursor of key joint compounds) (18-19).
References
Keywords
1 Days
fairly quick service. Decent prices
Vyril A
3 Days
Product always arrives timely and in good shape. Company is easy to work with. Website is user-friendly.
Diane
4 Days
The h pylori supplement has helped my digestive issues. I was diagnosed with h pylori more than once. Also was hospitalized with h pylori several times. Even after taking prescription meds for this condition I still had ongoing digestive issues. So I decided to give this product a try. It has helped with the bloating and inflammation in my stomach and chest. So I gave it a 4 star rating. It helps to calm the pain in my stomach and also acid reflux pains. It is a good product and I would recommend.
Sandra
7 Days
Have purchased from this company many times. A package arrived damaged and with an 1 email to customer service it was fixed. Thank you for great products and great customer service
jd
10 Days
Above and beyond customer service! Bravo. Love SuperSmart.
Isabella Jimenez
14 Days
Still great! I have given my opinion on this several times and it remains the same.
WRIGHT Connie
17 Days
I have been very happy with all my supplements from supersmart
kirstin Torres
17 Days
Quality supplements
Edward P
25 Days
Good products at a good price.
HELLAND Edward
27 Days
Any will be taken care of by SuperSmart staff.
DOMINIC
29 Days
Quality 3rd party tested products without fillers
Edward P
30 Days
great products and prices..
Marie
38 Days
product delivered on time and in good shape
Jack
43 Days
Great supplements at great prices
cynthia b
50 Days
It was easy and timely,
GEORGE Verne