Silicon
Silicon is a dietary element whose biological role is still incompletely understood. It is found in grains, vegetables, beer and drinking water.
What it is studied for
The strongest rated effects first. Bars show the size of the effect, the letter grades the evidence, and each rating lists the studies behind it.
What is silicon?
Silicon is a dietary element whose biological role remains incompletely understood. Animal and laboratory work suggests roles in collagen and bone formation; human dietary studies show associations with bone density, not proof that supplements prevent fractures. 1
Why people take it
SuppCo community snapshot, 2026-09-28. Reasons for use are not evidence that it works.
Questions people ask
Does silicon prevent hair loss?
The cited cosmetic trial measured brittleness, not prevention of hair loss. 2
Does it help everyone with knee arthritis?
No overall benefit appeared in the cited trial; the male subgroup finding needs confirmation. 3
Does traditional use prove effectiveness?
No. Verbraucherzentrale distinguishes long-standing use from adequately established evidence. 4
Related nutrients
SilicaSources
- Silicon and bone health Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging, 2007
- Effect of oral intake of choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid on skin, nails and hair in women with photodamaged skin Archives of Dermatological Research, 2005
- Schöne Haare durch Kieselerde? Verbraucherzentrale, 2026
