Silicon
Functions
The role of silicon in humans is as yet unclear. In some animals such as rats and chickens, silicon is essential for the development of the skeleton and connective tissues, and so probably has a role in bone and cartilage biosynthesis.
Recommended Intakes
There is no recommended intake for silicon in humans.
Food Sources
Plants foods are the richest sources of silicon e.g. unrefined cereals and root vegetables.
Reported intakes of silicon range widely from 28mg/day (Finland) to 1.2g/day (UK).
Deficiency
Because the essentiality of silicon is not known, deficiency is unknown
Toxicity
The risk of toxicity of silicon from dietary sources is low. |