Silicon is a trace mineral.
Where is it found?
Good dietary sources for silicon include whole-grain breads and cereals, root vegetables, and beer. A form of silicon called
silicates is added to some processed foods.
Silicon has been used in
connection with the following condition (refer to the individual
health concern for complete information):
Who is likely to be deficient?
Silicon is not an essential mineral. Deficiencies have not been reported.
How much is usually taken?
Because silicon has not been established as essential, a recommended intake has not been
established. The average diet is estimated to provide 5–20 mg of silicon per
day—an amount that appears adequate. When used as a supplement, common amounts range
from 1 to 2 mg per day.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
A high dietary intake of silicon is not associated with any toxic effects. Inhalation of
large amounts of silicon (in an industrial setting) can cause the respiratory disease
silicosis.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions
with silicon.