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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 silicate or silicic acid. It is also necessary in the diet as it increases the overall benefits of vitamin D, glucosamine and calcium. 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. Major health benefits of silicon are discussed below.

1. 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. Bone quality also depends on the health of bone collagen because collagen is the support structure of bone. Silicon helps form bone collagen and strengthens collagen protein. It also increases the rate of healing of bone dislocations and fractures.

2. Essential for Joints

Silicon was shown to be essential for the formation of articular cartilage. Silicon is a cross-linking agent in the glycosaminoglycan network which attracts and hold water in the joints.

3. Prevents Alopecia

Alopecia, or thinning of hair, is caused due to the intake of a refined diet that lacks nutrients, specifically silicon. The outer shaft of hair, that provides elasticity and strength, is rich in silicon. Hair with higher silicon content tends to fall out less and has more shine and luster. The health benefits of silicon encourage the growth of thick and healthy hair.

4. 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. Silicon is important for optimal collagen synthesis. Silicon is crucial for activating the hydroxylation enzymes for crosslinking collagen, which improves the strength and elasticity of this fibrous protein. Better collagen means better skin, more elasticity and fewer wrinkles

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. Restores Mucosa

The health benefits of silicon include the restoration of mucosa of the respiratory tract if the body is suffering from dehydration.

8. 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.

9. 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 have revealed that silicon supplements decrease the formation of plaque, and subsequently reduces the risk of various cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.

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. The most important sources of silicon are apples, cereals, raw cabbage, peanuts, carrots, onions, cucumber, pumpkin, fish, unrefined grains, oats, almonds and oranges. Higher quantities of silicon are found in hard water, compared to soft water.