Boron
BORON is a mineral found in most tissues of the body especially in the brain, liver, and fat (adipose), with toxic concentrations accumulating in the bone, fingernails, hair, and teeth. It may influence parathormone action, the metabolism of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, as well as the formation of the active form of cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3). However, it does seem to be beneficial in the prevention of calcium loss and bone demineralization in such nutritional disorders as hyperparathyroidism and osteoporosis. In clinical studies, supplementation appeared to reduce the excretion of both calcium and magnesium, while estrogen and testosterone levels doubled. If supplementation is required, it should be in the form of sodium borate of no more than 3 mg. and done under the supervision of a knowledgable health care provider.
Boron in the diet may explain why there are fewer cases of osteoporosis in vegetarians, since boron and calcium are found in almonds, brazil nuts, hazelnuts, figs, and prunes as well as apples, grapes, dates, raisins, pears, and peaches, soybeans, molasses, and honey. Although these foods have adequate boron levels, these sources are still not able to supply the daily calcium requirements. Meat and fish are poor sources, while such plant foods as fruits, vegetables, and nuts are the richest. A derivative of boron, boric acid, was once used as a food preservative, but it is no longer allowed.
Other names are B and element 5.
Deficiency symptoms include: retarded growth, decreased Vitamin D and steroid synthesis, decreased calcium/magnesium/phosphorus/bone/estrogen synthesis, a breakdown of hormone function, and bone demineralization.
Toxicity symptoms include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pains, skin inflammations, dermatitis, lethargy, muscle spasms, shock, and enzyme inhibition.
