May support collagen formation and healthy hair, skin, and nails.
Basically. Silica is silicon dioxide, a compound of silicon and oxygen. Your body uses the silicon.
Unlikely. The claim is that it strengthens existing hair and may reduce brittleness, not that it accelerates growth.
Probably not. Taking collagen directly has much better evidence. Silica is supposed to help you *build* collagen, but the data is weaker.
Click through to the studies bar for the evidence base.
See the dosing guide below.
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Some ingredients build up over weeks. Others act fast.
The compound effect of consistent dosing.
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Some ingredients you feel. Others just work in the background.
Choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid (ch-OSA) is the most well-absorbed. Standardized horsetail extract is the next best option.
You get it from plant foods like green beans, bananas, and oats. Beer is also a good source. It's unclear if you need more than a healthy diet provides.
There's some research suggesting a link between silicon intake and bone density, but the evidence is preliminary. Don't rely on it for your bones.
Rare at normal doses for healthy people. The main concern is for people with kidney issues, who should avoid it.
Most research uses 0.0g daily. Below 0.0g, you're probably wasting money. Above 0.1g, no extra benefit. The curve plateaus. Safe upper limit ~ 0.1g.
Silica is believed to support collagen synthesis by activating hydroxylating enzymes and increasing the production of glycosaminoglycans. It may also improve the structural integrity of keratin.
While silica is known to be important for connective tissue, the extent to which supplemental silica can provide noticeable benefits is still debated. Some studies show positive effects, while others are inconclusive. More research is needed to establish consistent benefits.
It's the second most abundant element in the Earth's crust. Found in sand, quartz, and plants like horsetail, bamboo, and oats.
Silica interacts with other supplements and meds. The analyzer flags interactions, dose mismatches, and timing collisions across your whole list.
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.