This mineral makes you even more beautiful

What is silicon?

Silicon is a chemical element that is the second most abundant in the Earth's crust after oxygen. Its name is derived from the Latin word "silex", meaning hard stone or flint. Silicon does not occur in pure form in nature but mainly in compounds with oxygen, particularly as silicon dioxide in sand, quartz and various minerals.

In the human body, silicon is mainly found in the skin, hair, nails, blood vessels, connective tissue and bones. Although regarded as a trace element, its biological function is not yet fully understood. In the diet it is especially present in fibre-rich cereals and mineral water, but is only absorbed by the body in small amounts.

Because of its special physical properties, silicon is widely used in industry. It is classified as a metalloid and has both metallic and non-metallic characteristics. As a semiconductor in particular, it plays a central role in electronics, for example in the manufacture of microchips and solar cells.

What are the benefits of silicon?

Silicon is an essential trace element that supports numerous health-promoting processes in the body. It occurs in all tissues and contributes considerably to the stability and elasticity of connective tissue, skin, bones, cartilage, tendons and ligaments. This is achieved by promoting the formation of elastin and collagen, two proteins that are responsible for tissue strength and flexibility. A lack of silicon can therefore weaken these connective tissues, which may manifest as cellulite, joint problems or reduced wound healing.

A notable benefit of silicon is its ability to bind large amounts of water. This property helps keep the skin hydrated and the joints supple. It can thus help counteract premature skin ageing, degenerative joint diseases such as osteoarthritis, and the weakening of tendons and ligaments.

Silicon is also essential for bone health. It supports the incorporation of calcium into the bone matrix and increases the production of collagen fibres, helping bones remain strong and flexible. Studies show that adequate silicon intake is associated with higher bone density and may therefore contribute to the prevention of osteoporosis.

Another important role of the element is in the cardiovascular system. It ensures the elasticity of blood vessels and thus contributes to maintaining healthy blood flow. A silicon deficiency can lead to stiffening of vessel walls, increasing the risk of high blood pressure, atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases.

Silicon also plays a role in the immune defence by stimulating the production of immune cells such as lymphocytes and phagocytes. These defence cells are essential for fighting pathogens and damaged cells, so adequate silicon intake can strengthen the immune system.

What effect does silicon have on the psyche?

Silicon may have a protective effect on mental health by shielding the brain from harmful influences. One possible function is to reduce the absorption of aluminium and promote the elimination of aluminium already stored in the body. This could help prevent deposits in the brain that are associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.

Furthermore, silicon has antioxidant properties that can neutralise free radicals and thus reduce oxidative stress. Since oxidative stress plays a role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases, silicon may potentially help reduce the risk of such conditions and preserve cognitive function. Some studies suggest that increased silicon intake may be linked to improved brain performance.

Silicon also has anti-inflammatory properties that may play a role in slowing diseases such as Parkinson's or multiple sclerosis. There is evidence that it could reduce the breakdown of important brain proteins that are necessary for neuron health.

Are diatomaceous earth and silicon the same thing?

Diatomaceous earth and silicon are not exactly the same, although they are closely related. Diatomaceous earth is mainly composed of silicon dioxide, which occurs naturally in the form of quartz and other mineral deposits. In many cases, diatomaceous earth is derived from the fossilised cell walls of diatoms. Silicon dioxide, the main mineral component of diatomaceous earth, is referred to in its water-soluble form as silicic acid.

Silicon itself is an important trace element found in the body mainly in bones, tooth enamel and connective tissue. Diatomaceous earth contains a high concentration of silicon and is often offered as a dietary supplement to support skin, hair and nails. However, the bioavailable form of silicon that the body utilises best is silicic acid, which is particularly abundant in plants such as bamboo and horsetail. Silicates, the salts of silicic acid, also occur in the body but are less readily utilised due to their more stable chemical composition compared with silicic acid.

Although the terms diatomaceous earth and silicon are often used interchangeably, diatomaceous earth specifically refers to a solid mineral form of silicon, whereas silicon as an element or in other chemical forms (such as silicic acid or silicates) is also used in biological and industrial applications.

Does silicon have side effects?

Silicon is generally well tolerated by the body and excessive intake through food has so far not shown significant side effects. Typically, silicon is sufficiently available through the daily diet, especially with a balanced, whole-foods diet. A silicon deficiency, which is not considered a true deficiency, can result from insufficient intake or increased need, for example due to injuries or certain life circumstances such as age and pre-existing conditions. Symptoms of such under-supply may include brittle nails, hair loss and skin ageing.

Specific silicon compounds in medicines or silicon dust, such as that found in the ceramics industry, can, however, cause health problems. Long-term exposure to silicon dust can lead to silicosis (a dust-related lung disease) and kidney diseases. Likewise, taking antacids that contain magnesium trisilicate may contribute to kidney stone formation. These risks do not occur with normal consumption of silicon-rich foods.

In which foods is silicon naturally found: useful tips

• Oats are particularly rich in silicon. Use rolled oats for porridge, muesli or with yoghurt to increase your daily intake. Replace regular flour with finely milled oats and use them in pancakes, bread or cakes.
• Millet is one of the best plant-based sources of silicon. Cook millet as a side dish, prepare millet porridge or use millet flour for baking.
• Silicon is located in the outer layers of the grain. Choose wholegrain bread, wholegrain pasta and unpolished rice to better absorb the mineral.
• Some mineral waters contain high amounts of silicic acid. Pay attention to the silicic acid (silicon dioxide) content on the label – values above 30 mg per litre are particularly beneficial.
• Potatoes provide considerable amounts of silicon. Eat them boiled in their skins, baked or in stews to retain as many nutrients as possible.
• Use pearl barley for soups, salads or as a rice substitute. Barley flakes are also great for breakfast.
• Horsetail is a natural source of silicon and is often sold as a tea. Drink it regularly to support your silicon levels.
• Beer contains relatively high levels of silicon due to barley and hops. Moderate consumption can contribute to silicon intake but should not be the main source.
• Bell peppers are among the vegetables with a high silicon content. Use them raw in salads, steamed as a side dish or stuffed as a main course.
• Spinach contains not only iron but also silicon. Use it fresh in salads, in smoothies or steamed as a vegetable side.
• Peanuts are a silicon-rich snack. Choose unsalted, natural peanuts as a healthy snack or use peanut butter as a spread.
• Lentils provide silicon in addition to protein and fibre. Cook lentil soups, curries or salads to benefit from this mineral.
• Cucumbers contain silicon and are a refreshing addition to salads, sandwiches or smoothies. Eat them preferably with the skin, where most nutrients are concentrated.
• Use high-purity products that contain organic silicon, such as oats or rice. This substance supports vitality and promotes health through its positive action in the body. Be sure to choose high-quality products to achieve the best possible effect.

Silicon supports the structure and elasticity of skin, hair and nails. Adequate silicon intake can therefore contribute to improving the overall appearance and health of skin and connective tissue.