Boron is a naturally occurring element found in plant foods. While it is considered a nonessential nutrient for humans, boron supplements have gained attention for their potential health benefits. In this article, we’ll explore what boron is, its possible uses, and what is known about dosage and risks.
Table of Contents
- How Boron Works in the Body
- Top Boron supplements
- Potential Uses of Boron
- Osteoarthritis
- Yeast Infections
- Types of boron supplements
- More benefits of boron supplements
- Side effect of boron supplements
- Boron vs borax
- Pros and Cons of Boron
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
How Boron Works in the Body
When ingested, boron is converted to boric acid and absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. The body absorbs about 85% to 90% of ingested boron. Boron is mainly excreted in the urine, with small amounts in feces, sweat, and breath. Notably, bones, nails, and hair have higher boron levels than other body tissues, while fat has lower levels1.
Top Boron Supplements
1. HealthyHey Nutrition Boron Advanced Chelated Capsules
Key Features
- Each capsule contains 3mg of high-quality boron.
- Veggie capsules, gluten-free, and Non-GMO.
- Made at FSSAI, Halal, and USFDA registered facilities.
Dosage and Serving Size
- Recommended serving: 1 capsule daily.
- Consult a healthcare professional for personalized dosing.
Quality Assurance
- HealthyHey Nutrition ensures third-party testing for purity and potency.
- The brand prioritizes safety and efficacy.
2.VITARUHE Triple Boron Complex
Key Features
- Each VITARUHE capsule delivers 6 mg of triple-action boron.
- The meticulously crafted blend includes Boron Citrate, Boron Glycinate, and Boron Aspartate for optimal absorption.
- These non-GMO and gluten-free capsules are a boon for bone health, hormonal balance, and overall vitality.
Dosage and Serving Size
- Take one VITARUHE capsule daily with a meal or as directed by your healthcare professional.
Quality Assurance
- VITARUHE ensures third-party testing for purity and potency.
- Safety and efficacy are non-negotiable.
3.Triple Action Boron Complex
Key Features
- Our Triple Action Boron Complex delivers triple the support in one single formula!
- It features 3 forms of this micronutrient:
- Boron Citrate
- Boron Glycinate
- Boron Aspartate
- Each serving offers 6 mg of Boron in Non-GMO, Gluten-Free tablets.
- Perfect for all adult men and women looking to supplement with this enriched mineral.
Dosage and Serving Size
- Take one tablet daily with a meal or as directed by your healthcare professional.
Quality Assurance
- Our formula is backed by our commitment to purity and potency.
- Laboratory tested, trusted ingredients, superior quality, 100% guaranteed!
4.NutriJa Boron Capsules
Key Features
- Each NutriJa capsule delivers 6 mg of boron as a Boron Citrate/Aspartate/Glycine Complex.
- Highly bioavailable compared to other forms of boron.
- Promotes natural testosterone production and supports bone health.
- Derived from a vegetarian source.
Dosage and Serving Size
- Take one capsule daily with a meal or as directed by your healthcare professional.
Quality Assurance
- Manufactured in a USA-based GMP-certified facility.
- Purity and potency guaranteed.
5.SheNeed Boron Supplement
Boron is a trace mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. SheNeed Boron Supplement aims to provide a convenient way to meet your daily boron requirements. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits, potential drawbacks, and common questions related to this supplement.
6.iFeelFIT Boron Supplements
Boron, a lesser-known trace mineral, plays a significant role in maintaining overall health. iFeelFIT Boron Supplements aim to provide a convenient way to meet your daily boron requirements. Let’s delve into the benefits, potential drawbacks, and common questions surrounding this essential nutrien
Potential Uses of Boron
While research on boron is limited, some potential benefits have been studied:
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) occurs when cartilage protecting bones wears down, causing discomfort and pain. Preliminary results from studies suggest that boron supplementation may improve OA symptoms. For instance:
- A double-blind placebo-controlled study found that short-term calcium fructoborate supplementation (a form of boron) reduced markers of inflammation in people with OA.
- Another trial reported reduced knee pain in adults with OA who received 6 milligrams of boron per day for two weeks. However, this study was funded by the company that manufactures the supplement1.
Yeast Infections
Boron is popularly used for vaginal yeast infections (candidiasis). However, more research is needed to establish its effectiveness in this area1.
Types of Boron Supplements
Boron supplements come in various forms. Let’s take a closer look at the options:
- Pure Encapsulations Boron Glycinate
- Form: Boron glycinate (easily absorbable).
- Dosage: 2 mg per capsule.
- Additional Ingredients: None.
- Why Choose It: Minimal and highly absorbable.
- Now Boron
- Form: Calcium borogluconate.
- Dosage: 3 mg per capsule.
- Additional Ingredients: Rice flour and stearic acid.
- Why Choose It: Simple and effective.
- Swanson Triple Boron Complex
- Form: Boron glycinate, citrate, and aspartate.
- Dosage: High-dose boron.
- Additional Ingredients: None.
- Why Choose It: Enhanced bioavailability.
- Trace Minerals Ionic Boron
- Form: Liquid (ionic salt form).
- Dosage: 6 mg per serving.
- Additional Ingredients: Trace minerals (calcium, magnesium).
- Why Choose It: Convenient for adding to shakes or smoothies.
More Health Benefits of Boron Supplements
- Bone Health: Boron plays a crucial role in bone health by enhancing calcium absorption and promoting bone density. It contributes to stronger bones and may reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
- Joint Function: Some studies suggest that boron may alleviate joint discomfort and stiffness, making it beneficial for individuals with arthritis or joint-related issues.
- Hormonal Balance: Boron influences hormone levels, particularly estrogen and testosterone. It may help regulate hormonal imbalances and improve overall well-being.
- Brain Function: Research indicates that boron may enhance cognitive function and memory. It supports brain health and may contribute to better mental clarity.
Side Effects of Boron Supplements
- Limited Research: While boron shows promise, more extensive research is needed to confirm its benefits conclusively. Scientists are still exploring its mechanisms of action and long-term effects.
- Dosage Uncertainty: Optimal boron dosage varies based on factors such as age, sex, and individual health conditions. Excessive intake can be harmful, leading to adverse effects.
- Interaction with Medications: Boron may interact with certain medications, affecting their efficacy. Consult a healthcare professional before combining boron supplements with other drugs.
- Potential Side Effects:
- Gastrointestinal Distress: High doses of boron may cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Skin Irritation: Some individuals may experience skin rashes or dermatitis due to excessive boron intake.
- Hormonal Imbalance: While boron helps regulate hormones, excessive levels can disrupt the delicate balance.
- Kidney Function: Prolonged high boron intake may impact kidney function.
- Liver Health: Boron can accumulate in the liver, potentially affecting liver enzymes.
- Fertility Concerns: Excessive boron may interfere with male and female fertility.
- Allergic Reactions: Rarely, individuals may develop allergic reactions to boron supplements.
Boron vs. Borax
When it comes to chemistry, terms like “boron” and “borax” might sound like distant cousins at a family reunion. But fear not! We’re here to unravel their mysteries and explore their unique roles. So, grab your lab coat, and let’s dive into the fascinating world of boron and borax.
Boron: The Elemental Player
- Definition: Boron is a nonmetallic element found in the Earth’s crust and various minerals.
- Symbol: Represented by the chemical symbol “B,” boron is atomic number 5 on the periodic table.
- Abundance: Although not abundant in the Earth’s crust, boron plays a crucial role in various industrial applications.
- Forms: Boron occurs in several different forms, each with distinct properties1.
- Applications: From fiberglass to ceramics, boron finds its way into diverse industries.
Borax: Sodium Borate Unveiled
- Definition: Borax, also known as sodium borate, is a white crystalline powder.
- Composition: It consists of sodium, boron, oxygen, and water molecules.
- Origins: Mined from evaporated lakes, borax is a specific boron compound.
- Uses:
- Cleaning Agent: Borax is a common cleaning agent and laundry booster.
- Raw Material: It serves as a flux in porcelain and enamel production.
- Soap Production: Borax is a raw material for soap manufacturing.
- Chemical Formula: Its chemical symbol is Na2B4O7, and it can be anhydrous or hydrated with five or ten water crystallization molecules
Pros and Cons of Boron
Pros:
- Potential benefits for osteoarthritis symptoms.
- May help reduce inflammation.
- Widely available in dietary supplements.
Cons:
- Limited evidence for other health benefits.
- No recommended dose has been established.
- Avoid boron supplements if you have kidney disease or kidney function problems1.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is boron essential for human health?
Boron is considered nonessential, but it is naturally present in plant foods and can be obtained from supplements.
2. Can boron prevent cancer?
Research on this topic is inconclusive. More studies are needed to determine any potential cancer-preventive effects.
3. What are the risks of boron supplementation?
Kidney disease patients should avoid boron supplements. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement.
4. How much boron should I take?
No recommended dose exists. Individualized guidance from a healthcare professional is essential.
5. Is boron safe during pregnancy?
Limited data are available. Pregnant individuals should consult their healthcare provider before using boron supplements.
Conclusion
In summary, boron supplements have potential benefits for osteoarthritis and may help with inflammation. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects. Always seek professional advice before using any supplement1. Remember that no supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent a disease. 🌱🌟