calcium and boron

http://www.oralchelation.com/ingred/boron.htm


Boron is a trace mineral that helps maintain healthy bone and joint function. Boron is involved in calcium and magnesium metabolism and, therefore might prevent bone loss associated with osteoporosis (Kirschmann, 1996).

METHOD OF ACTION

Boron helps maintain healthy bones. Several studies have shown that boron assists in improving absorption and utilization of the calcium and magnesium (Feinstein, 1996). Boron is best if taken with a well balanced vitamin and mineral supplement including calcium, magnesium, and riboflavin (vitamin B2) (Hendler, 1991).

Boron is essential for the utilization of vitamin D, which enhances the absorption of calcium. Recent research demonstrates that boron may be essential in the conversion of vitamin D to its active form (Murray, 1996).

PROPERTIES & USES

The primary use of boron in the body is for the efficient absorption of calcium, and thus, boron is essential for healthy bones. Boron is useful for women suffering from postmenopausal osteoporosis. A study involving postmenopausal women who supplemented their diet with 3 milligrams of boron daily resulted in reduced calcium excretion by 44 percent and dramatically increased the levels of beta-estradiol, the most biologically active estrogen.

Boron supplementation may also be useful for arthritis. Several studies show that boron may provide relief for patients suffering from osteoarthrtits, juvenile arthritis, and Rheumatoid Arthritis (Murray, 1996).

It may also be beneficial for ischemic heart disease and other types of cardiovascular disease (Kirschmann, 1996).

CONSEQUENCE OF DEFIECIENCY

Inadequate intake of boron causes bone changes similar to those seen in osteoporosis. Boron deficiency results in decreased blood levels of calcium and calcitonin and increases urinary excretion of calcium and magnesium levels. Boron deficiency also causes decreased serum concentrations of estrogen and testosterone, all of which are associated with calcium loss and bone demineralization (Murray, 1996; Somer, 1995).

SAFETY ISSUES

Boron is extremely safe when taken at the recommended dosages of 3 to 9 milligrams daily. If extremely high dosages are used (greater than 500 milligrams per day), nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may occur (Murray, 1996).

RECOMMENDED DIETARY ALLOWANCES

There is no official RDA for boron. A dosage of 1.5 to 3.0 daily milligrams is safe and adequate (Murray, 1996).

FOOD SOURCES

Fresh fruits and vegetables are the main dietary sources of boron. The estimated average daily intake for Americans is between 1.7 and 7 milligrams daily. A diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables is known to offer significant protection against osteoporosis and osteoarthritis (Murray, 1996).

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