Boron - Health Benefits

Boron is a vital trace mineral that is required for normal growth and health of the body. Many disease conditions like arthritis, menopausal symptoms and osteoporosis among others are naturally managed by Boron. It is believed that boron improves the natural ability of human body to absorb calcium and magnesium.
Boron is an essential trace element that is largely overlooked. However, it is very crucial to include boron in the daily diet to ensure a healthy and diseases free life. Some of its benefits include the following:

What are the functions of boron?
* It helps to maintain the levels of minerals and hormones that are needed for bone health.
* It may help in the prevention of calcium loss and therefore aid in the prevention of osteoporosis.
* It raises testosterone levels in men and therefore builds muscles.

What are the symptoms of a boron deficiency?
Bone conditions such as osteomalacia and osteoarthritis may be the result of a boron deficiency. A boron deficiency is also linked to:
* depression,
* problems metabolizing: calcium, magnesium and phosphorous, and
* increased effects of stress on the body.

Important sources: Fruits like apples, oranges, almonds, red grapes, pear, plum, kiwi, sultanas, dates, vegetables, soybeans and nuts are rich sources of Boron. Chickpeas, borlotti beans, hazel nuts, currants; peanut butter, red kidney beans, tomato, lentils, olive, onion, potato wine, beer etc are also notable sources of Boron.

Benefits of Boron :
- Boron is also involved in processes that build and repair joints, giving it an important role in the prevention of arthritis.
- Boron also helps to prevent tooth decay, again because of its involvement in the metabolism of other essential minerals.
- Boron also appears to be involved in the metabolism of hormones. In particular, it raises testosterone levels in men and helps to build muscle.
- It helps to build and maintain healthy bones.
- It also helps to prevent bone thinning leading to osteoporosis.
- It enhances maintenance of healthy cell membranes.
- It also helps to maintain proper mental functioning and alertness.
- It elevates levels of serum estrogen and ionized calcium.
- It inhibits the development of osteoporosis.
- It helps retain adequate amounts of calcium and magnesium to prevent bone demineralization.

Special note :
Boron may be toxic in doses above 100 mg. Symptoms of toxicity include:
* a red rash,
* vomiting,
* diarrhea,
* reduced circulation, and
* shock and then coma.