The Thyroid and Silica
What is Silica?
Definition: Silica, also known as silicon dioxide, is a trace mineral found abundantly in the Earth's crust. It is a combination of silicon and oxygen, essential for the development and maintenance of connective tissues, bones, skin, and hair.
What Types of Silica Are There and What Do They Do?
Organic Silica: Found in plants like horsetail and bamboo, organic silica is bioavailable and easily absorbed by the body. It supports bone health, skin elasticity, and collagen production.
Synthetic Silica: Used in supplements and cosmetics, this form is processed and may have reduced bioavailability compared to natural sources.
Colloidal Silica: A suspension of silica particles in liquid, commonly used in medical and industrial applications.
Daily Requirements for Silica
General Recommendations: While there is no established Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for silica, an estimated daily intake of 20-50 mg is suggested for adults to maintain health.
Pregnant and Lactating Women: Higher intake may be beneficial due to increased needs for connective tissue support and fetal development.
Children: Requires lower amounts, typically 5-20 mg daily, as their bodies are smaller and still developing.
What Does Silica Do in Our Body?
Connective Tissue Health: Silica is vital for collagen synthesis, contributing to the strength and elasticity of skin, tendons, ligaments, and bones.
Bone Mineralization: Enhances calcium deposition in bones, promoting density and strength.
Skin, Hair, and Nail Health: Helps maintain moisture and structure, reducing wrinkles and improving the growth and strength of hair and nails.
Symptoms of Silica Deficiency
Brittle Nails: Nails become weak and prone to breaking.
Thinning Hair: Hair may lose its luster and thickness, leading to hair loss over time.
Skin Issues: Loss of elasticity and increased susceptibility to wrinkles.
Joint Pain: Poor cartilage health may result in stiffness or pain.
Weak Bones: Increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
What Does Silica Do for Our Thyroid Pathway?
Thyroid Hormone Synthesis: Silica indirectly supports the thyroid by maintaining connective tissues in the thyroid gland.
Inflammation Reduction: It may help reduce inflammation around the thyroid, promoting a healthy environment for hormone production.
What Does Silica Do for Our Liver?
Detoxification Support: Silica binds to toxins, including heavy metals, aiding in their removal and reducing the liver's burden.
Connective Tissue Maintenance: Supports the structural integrity of the liver, ensuring efficient function.
What Does Silica Do for Our Gut?
Gut Lining Integrity: Enhances the strength and repair of the intestinal lining, reducing leaky gut syndrome.
Microbiome Balance: May contribute to a healthy gut environment by supporting epithelial cell health.
Physical Ailments That Affect Silica
Osteoporosis: Reduced silica levels can lead to weaker bones.
Connective Tissue Disorders: Conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may be exacerbated by silica deficiency.
Aging: Natural decline in silica levels with age affects skin elasticity and bone health.
Food That Impacts Silica
High-Sugar Diets: Excessive sugar consumption can reduce silica absorption.
Acidic Foods: May alter pH levels in the gut, impacting silica utilization.
Medications That Impact Silica
Antacids: Long-term use reduces stomach acid, impairing silica absorption.
Diuretics: Increases urinary excretion of silica.
Steroids: Chronic use may deplete silica levels by altering connective tissue metabolism.
Natural Supplements That Negatively Impact Silica
Calcium Supplements: Excess calcium can compete with silica for absorption.
Magnesium Supplements: High doses may similarly interfere with silica uptake.
Heavy Metals That Impact Silica
Aluminum: Binds to silica, making it unavailable for bodily functions.
Lead: Can replace silica in connective tissues, weakening their structure.
Testing for Silica
Hair Mineral Analysis: Provides insights into silica levels and overall mineral balance.
Urine Testing: Measures silica excretion to assess deficiency or overload.
Blood Tests: Rarely performed but may indicate systemic silica levels.
Nutrients Required for Silica Absorption
Vitamin D: Enhances silica absorption and utilization in bones.
Calcium: Works synergistically with silica for bone health.
Boron: Improves silica metabolism and its effects on connective tissues.
Foods High in Silica
Cucumbers: Rich in bioavailable silica, especially in the skin.
Bananas: Provide a moderate amount of silica along with potassium.
Horsetail: One of the richest plant sources of silica.
Whole Grains: Contain silica in their outer layers, promoting bone and skin health.
Leafy Greens: Spinach and kale are excellent sources of silica.
A Recipe High in Silica
Silica Smoothie
Ingredients: 1 cucumber with skin, 1 banana, handful of spinach, 1 cup coconut water, 1 tblsp horsetail powder
Instructions: Blend all ingredients till smooth
Other Random Information About Silica
Role in Collagen: Silica is essential for the enzyme prolidase, which is crucial for collagen production.
Environmental Sources: Found naturally in water, especially in areas with high levels of quartz.
Anti-Aging Effects: Regular silica intake can delay visible signs of aging by maintaining skin elasticity and hydration.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or treatment plan. Individual needs may vary, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.
