Are You Missing This Essential Nutrient?

Silicon is atomic number 14 on the periodic table. It is a metallic-like substance and is the second most abundant element on earth after oxygen.

Silica is the combo of silicon and oxygen that forms rocks such as quartz, lava, and cement. Silicon Valley in California achieved that moniker because silicon has semiconductor properties that are used in various ways such as computer chips.

Diatomaceous earth is the fossilized shells of microscopic water-dwelling organisms known as diatoms. Diatoms are one-celled plants (algae or phytoplankton) that are the primary food source for marine life. These plants have been part of the earth's ecology since prehistoric times, yet their species still exists today in both salt and fresh waters all over the world.

Health Benefits of Diatomaceous Earth

A 12 week study was conducted to look at the potential influence of diatomaceous earth to lower blood cholesterol concentrations in 19 healthy individuals with a history of moderate hypercholesterolemia.

Individuals were administered 250 mg DE three-times daily during an eight week observation period. Serum concentrations of cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides levels were measured before study entry, every second week during the period of diatomaceous earth intake, and four weeks after stop of intake.

Total cholesterol decreased from 286 to 248 in the group. LDL and triglycerides also significantly decreased. HDL was increased. Four weeks after intake of DE was stopped, the positive changes were still seen (1). 

By now you have likely heard that cholesterol is essential to life. It forms our hormones, vitamin D, digestive nutrients, and is a component of every cell membrane. Sometimes though, too much LDL (the particle that carries cholesterol) can increase the risk of heart disease. DE is a gentle way to reduce these LDL particles.

There are many reasons for the benefits of DE which likely include improved bowel health and the binding of bile salts in the gastrointestinal tract. 

More Evidence

In 1995, the Journal of Hypertension demonstrated blood pressure reduction with silica in the rat model (2). Schwartz and colleagues found that the more silicon present in water, the less amount of atherosclerosis in humans (3). This is starting to get interesting. 

What can DE do for your brain? Well, scientists have found silicon reduces Alzheimer’s plaque (4) and high silica content in drinking water appears to lower dementia risk by 10% (5). 

Diatomaceous earth has been used for years in the holistic community for gastrointestinal health and its action on microbes including parasites (6). Other authors have found silica useful in the treatment of aged skin, fragile hair, and brittle nails (7). A silica drink led to significant excretion of aluminum in the urine, a metal associated with dementia (8). A multitude of evidence exists for the prevention of osteoporosis (9).

As a way to boost silica intake, I recommend a heaping teaspoon of food grade diatomaceous earth daily in water. Use it first thing in the morning. More DE can be used for parasite cleanses and detox programs. Another option is the use of zeolite, itself an excellent source of silica and a way to lower metal burden.

Both products have a chalk-like taste and should be used on their own. They bind plenty of bad, but also some of the good nutrients. Don’t ruin your morning smoothie with them.

Enjoy!

Sources:

1. Eur J Med Res. 1998 Apr 8;3(4):211-5.
2. J Hypertens.1995 Dec;13(12 Pt 2):1581-4.
3. 1977;1(8010):538–539.
4. Traber J, Gispen WH. 1985.
5. Am J Epidemiol.2009 Feb 15;169(4):489-96
6. Poult Sci.2011 Jul;90(7):1416-26
7. J Int Med Res.1993;21(4):209–215.
8. J Alzheimers Dis.2013;33(2):423-30
9. Prog Mol Subcell Biol.2011;52:283-312.