This 2013 review discusses the possible biological potential of the metalloid silicon as bioavailable orthosilicic acid and the potential beneficial effects on human health. Silicon has been suggested to exhibit roles in the structural integrity of nails, hair and skin, overall collagen synthesis, bone mineralization and bone health, and reduced metal accumulation in Alzheimer’s disease, immune system health and reduction of the risk for atherosclerosis. Although emerging research is promising, much additional, corroborative research is needed.
References:
Martin K. R. (2013). Silicon: the health benefits of a metalloid. Metal ions in life sciences, 13, 451–473. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-7500-8_14
