Nutrition

Boron Supplement Benefits, Side Effects, and Dosage

4 minute read
Boron Supplement Benefits, Side Effects, and Dosage - Trace Minerals

Ionic boron is a liquid supplement rich in the trace element, boron. Trace elements refer to chemicals that occur naturally in food, the body, and the environment. The body uses boron in minute amounts to support many bodily functions, from strong bones and muscles to increasing testosterone levels in the body. Boron interacts with the enzymes in your body to activate or suppress certain functions.

Ionic supplements are ones that have a positive or negative charge, and bind easily with water so that they can be circulated around the body. This usually makes them easier to take and quicker to work than other supplements.

This article will look at what boron is, provide a list of boron benefits, share its side effects, and provide a recommended dosage for adults and children. Read on to find out more about boron uses.

What Is Boron?

Boron impacts how the body handles other minerals, like calcium, or magnesium. It is an element found naturally in minute levels in the body. Compounds and forms of boron have been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of health conditions. Boron was first named in 1808, when boric acid was combined with other elements to produce a gray solid, called boron. 

What Is Boron Good For?

Boron is used as a supplement and may treat a number of health conditions. It is a safe supplement that does not currently have any recorded adverse reactions with other drugs. This makes it suitable for a range of health conditions. Read on to find out more.

Boron For Arthritis

Research is ongoing into the positive benefits of boron on individuals with arthritis. It is believed to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Research suggests that in geographical locations where boron use is 3-10 mg, the incidence of arthritis is up to 60% lower than areas which only use 1 mg or less of boron. 

Strong Bones

Boron may reduce the chances of arthritis because of its positive effect in strengthening bone density. Studies support that boron supplements help to activate calcium growth and the formation of bone minerals. This not only prevents arthritis but can reduce the chance of fractures or breaks as the result of falls or injuries.

Menstrual Cramps

Boron’s anti-inflammatory properties also help to reduce the pain caused by menstrual cramps. A study on two groups experiencing menstrual cramps revealed that those that took boron experienced significantly less pain. Boron reduces inflammation by interacting positively with the enzymes that usually trigger swelling.

Yeast Infections

Boric acid, a form of boron, is also believed to treat yeast infections. It has been used as a treatment for yeast infection for hundreds of years. This might be because it prevents yeast build-up in the body which stops the yeast infection getting worse or coming back. Boron is commonly used as a treatment for yeast infections for cases when initial antifungal treatments are proving ineffective.

Cancer Prevention

Emerging studies suggest that there may be a link between reduced boron intake and lung cancer. There is more research required to establish whether there is a clear link between boron and cancer. However, boron is also found in higher quantities in fruits and vegetables, which are already recommended as part of a healthy diet.

Boron For Testosterone

Research suggests boron that interacts with the body by stimulating enzymes that fulfill certain functions. One of the enzymes it activates may be those which are responsible for the production of testosterone. Ionic boron supplements may help individuals with low testosterone levels, or with erectile dysfunction (ED).

Athletic Performance

Boron may also have a positive effect on muscle growth. Much like bone growth, it is believed that boron helps certain minerals to be absorbed faster. This could have a direct impact on the strength and growth of your muscles, leading to improved athletic performance.

Better Brain Function

Studies suggest that boron might help with brain function. When comparing those with high boron levels to those with low boron levels, research supported that those on a higher boron dosage performed more complex activities than those on a lower dosage. 

What Are Some Potential Boron Side Effects?

As with any supplement, there are some potential side effects which may occur when taking boron supplements. In rare instances, individuals may experience dry skin, diarrhea, feelings of nausea, or vomiting. If these symptoms persist, please contact a healthcare professional immediately. If you go above the recommended daily dosage, there is a risk of kidney damage, so please ensure you stick to safe levels outlined below. If you have exceeded the daily dosage and feel unwell, please consult a doctor immediately.

How Much Boron Should You Take Per Day?

The recommended safe levels of boron intake are between 1-13 milligrams a day. Common daily usage is between 3-6 milligrams For children, a safe intake would be:

  • 1-3 years: 3 milligrams
  • 4-8 years: 6 milligrams
  • 9-13 years: 11 milligrams

Children over the age of 14 can follow the recommended maximum guidelines for adults set out above.

When Should You Take Boron?

If you are taking boron before bed, you should take it after dinner and at least 5 hours before you go to sleep. This is because boron works best when combined with insulin. Insulin is a hormone created by your body when your blood levels rise. Ionic boron should be taken orally. There is no best time to take boron, however taking boron before bed has some advantages. It allows the effects of the boron to be activated throughout the night, for positive effects in subsequent days.

Conclusion

Ionic boron is an easy and effective way to benefit from the health-boosting properties of boron. Feel stronger and healthier today. Whether you’re looking for a better athletic performance, a solution to your menstrual cramps, or higher testosterone levels, boron may help. Trace Minerals is on hand to help on your journey to a healthier you. Browse our full catalog to see the full range of supplements we have available.

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