Boron - Benefits, Deficiency and Food Source

Boron is a trace mineral that is needed by the body in minute amount. It was discovered in 1910 as an essential element for plants but after a scientific research in 1985 it was observed that it is one of the essential elements for human beings too. The basic utility of boron is for the proper functioning of brain and healthy bones.

Since the discovery of boron, it was not popular about its importance in daily diet. In the beginning healing boric salt was used by healers in memorizing, coordination and to improve the functioning of brain. As mineral boron started to gained more attention, as an activating agent. Boron is very important for various life functions.

Boron helps to regulate the level of various other salt such as calcium, magnesium and phosphorous, as these salts are necessary for bone health. Boron helps in repairing calcium of brittle bones hence preventing them from getting fractured. Boron also plays a vital role in preventing osteoporosis.

Boron plays a major role in preventing osteoporosis by reducing the loss of calcium and magnesium in urine, as these are responsible for building and maintaining strong bones. Boron elevates the level of serum, estrogen and calcium especially in women suffering from osteoporosis. It is essential for maintaining cells for the normal functioning of cell. It has been studied that deficiency of boron causes impair mental functioning and depressed mental alertness.

Sources of Boron

Foods that contain boron are pears, apples, raisins, prunes, and tomatoes. Boron is sometimes found in soil and drinking water of arid climate. It is also included in various vitamins and mineral supplements.

Benefits of Boron

Boron is also important in the function of repairing joints and hence in prevention of arthritis. It also helps in prevention from tooth decay. It functions to regulate the level of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorous not only helps in maintaining strong bones but also in keeping teeth strong.

Boron is also involved in body metabolism which helps to regulate hormones. It regulates the level of testosterone in men which helps in maintaining muscle. It regulates the level of estrogen by converting it into vitamin D which in turn increases calcium absorption. It is required to strengthen bones and prevention from fractures. Boron also affects memory and brain function so that proper transfer of nutrient can take place throughout the body.

Deficiency symptoms of Boron

As boron is required in various body processes thus deficiency of it may result in various health problems. The major symptoms that amount to deficiency of boron are problem with bone health, depression, inability to handle stress, tooth decay, mental stress, pain in muscle & joints, arthritis, receding gums etc.

Symptoms of high intake

The symptoms of high intake include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, rash and circulatory problems. In extreme cases its toxicity may lead to shock followed by coma.

Daily Requirement

There is however no particular amount of intake is set up but 3mg of Boron may prove sufficient to maintain proper health. It may be noted that consumption over 100mg may prove toxic.