International Journal of Endocrinology
Volume 2013 (2013), Article ID 316783, 6 pages
FULL ARTICLE: http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2013/316783
Review Article
Charles T. Price, Kenneth J. Koval, and Joshua R. Langford
Orlando Health Department of Orthopedic Surgery, 1222 Orange Avenue, Orlando, FL 32806, USA
Received 23 December 2012; Accepted 23 April 2013
Academic Editor: Cory Xian
Copyright © 2013 Charles T. Price et al. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Abstract
Physicians are aware of the benefits of calcium and vitamin D supplementation. However, additional nutritional components may also be important for bone health. There is a growing body of the scientific literature which recognizes that silicon plays an essential role in bone formation and maintenance. Silicon improves bone matrix quality and facilitates bone mineralization. Increased intake of bioavailable silicon has been associated with increased bone mineral density. Silicon supplementation in animals and humans has been shown to increase bone mineral density and improve bone strength. Dietary sources of bioavailable silicon include whole grains, cereals, beer, and some vegetables such as green beans. Silicon in the form of silica, or silicon dioxide (SiO2), is a common food additive but has limited intestinal absorption. More attention to this important mineral by the academic community may lead to improved nutrition, dietary supplements, and better understanding of the role of silicon in the management of postmenopausal osteoporosis.