Boron

What is Boron?

Boron is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in many foods and in the environment. It is an essential nutrient that plays a role in various biological functions in the body, including bone growth and maintenance, brain function, and metabolism.

History of Boron

Boron was first discovered in 1808 by Sir Humphry Davy, an English chemist. However, it was not until the 20th century that its importance as an essential nutrient was recognized. In the 1980s, research began to show that boron could have positive effects on bone health, and since then, it has been the subject of much scientific study.

Pharmacology of Boron

Boron has several pharmacological properties, including its ability to affect bone metabolism, hormone regulation, and brain function. It is thought to work by interacting with enzymes and signaling pathways in the body, although the exact mechanisms of action are not yet fully understood.

Chemistry of Boron

Boron is a chemical element with the symbol B and atomic number 5. It is a metalloid, meaning that it has properties of both metals and nonmetals. Boron is found in the Earth's crust, usually in the form of borates or boric acid.

Positive Effects of Boron

1. Bone Health: Boron has been shown to be important for bone health, particularly in the maintenance of bone density. Studies have found that boron supplementation can improve bone health in postmenopausal women and older adults.

2. Hormone Regulation: Boron may also play a role in regulating hormones in the body. Research has shown that boron supplementation can increase levels of testosterone and estrogen, which can have positive effects on muscle growth, bone health, and cognitive function.

3. Brain Function: Boron has been shown to have neuroprotective properties and may help to improve cognitive function in older adults. It may also have antidepressant effects.

Negative Effects of Boron

While boron is generally safe when consumed in small amounts, high doses can be toxic. Symptoms of boron toxicity include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dermatitis. Long-term exposure to high levels of boron may also have negative effects on reproductive function.

Supplements to Boost Boron

Boron can be found in many foods, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts. However, supplementation may be necessary to ensure adequate intake, particularly for individuals who do not consume a balanced diet.

Boron supplements are available in several forms, including capsules and tablets. The recommended daily intake of boron varies depending on age, sex, and other factors, but most adults need between 1 and 3 mg per day.

Warnings

Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid boron supplements, as their safety has not been well studied in these populations. High doses of boron can be toxic, so it is important to follow recommended dosages and to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Conclusion

Boron is an essential mineral that plays a role in many important biological functions in the body. It has several positive effects, including its potential to improve bone health, regulate hormones, and improve cognitive function. However, high doses of boron can be toxic, and supplementation should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Adequate intake can be achieved through a balanced diet, but supplementation may be necessary in some cases.

References

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3. Bhandari S, Pinto J, Rivera M, et al. Effect of boron supplementation on bone mineral density and dietary, blood, and urinary calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and boron in female athletes. J Am Coll Nutr. 2011;30(5):367-374.

4. Naghii MR, Samman S. The role of boron in nutrition and metabolism. Prog Food Nutr Sci. 1993;17(4):331-349.

5. Naghii MR, Mofid M. The relationship between boron and serum leptin levels in response to weight-loss diet and aerobic exercise in obese women. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2010;138(1-3):130-135.

6. Nielsen FH. Boron and estrogen-like effects of dietary components. In: Nutrition and Fitness: Mental Health, Aging, and the Implementation of a Healthy Diet and Physical Activity Lifestyle. Springer US; 2011:81-90.

7. Penland JG. The importance of boron nutrition for brain and psychological function. Biol Trace Elem Res. 1998;66(1-3):299-317.

8. Schwartz K, Milne GL, Ivanova PT, et al. Hydroxyoctadecadienoic acids (HODEs) increase in response to eccentric exercise and are associated with the neutrophil response to this trauma. Redox Biol. 2017;12:901-908.

9. Murray MT, Pizzorno J. Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. 3rd ed. Pizzorno JE, Murray MT, eds. St. Louis, Mo.: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier; 2006.

10. National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements. Boron. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Boron-HealthProfessional/

11. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/

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