The Use of Silica in the Food Industry

The food industry is one of the biggest beneficiaries of silica. As one of the most abundant substances on earth, silicon dioxide is quickly finding its use in the manufacture of foods. Nowadays, there are numerous foods that contain silicon dioxide. It’s important to note that silicon cannot be found on its own. Instead, it bonded with oxygen to form silicon dioxide or silica. Here is how silica is used in the production of various types of foods.

The Use of Silica in the Food Industry
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The Basics

Silicon dioxide is one of the most abundant minerals on earth. Approximately thirty percent of the world’s crust is made up of silica. Plus, this important mineral is also found in various types of foods.

Nonetheless, it’s important to note that silicon dioxide doesn’t exist on its own. Rather, it combines with other naturally occurring compounds like oxygen to form silicate materials. Silica is one of the most prevalent components of sand. That’s why it’s regarded as an essential component of the building industry.

Silicon dioxide is commonly found in natural foods, such as green beans, vegetables, and brown rice. And it’s particularly useful in the food industry, where it’s utilized as an anti-caking agent. It’s also used in the creation of supplements as it prevents ingredients from sticking together. At times, it’s also added to liquids in order to control foaming and stickiness.

Why Take Silica                     

Silicon is a natural supplement for various health issues, including hair loss, weak bones, digestive issues, heart disease, as well as, Alzheimer’s disease. But the FDA recommends that you shouldn’t take more than thirty grams of silica per day. It’s also important to note that inhaling tiny particles of silica can increase your risk of developing kidney disease, silicosis, and lung cancer.

Foods Rich Silica

Research shows that silicone dioxide is essential for human health. However, more research still needs to be done to confirm this. Most foods contain adequate amounts of silica that can be utilized by the body for various health benefits. But it’s always important to consume it in moderation. Here are some foods that are highly rich in silica:

Green Bean

Green beans are highly rich in silica. One cup contains about seven milligrams of silica. Thus, if you want to lead a healthier life, be sure to include green vegetables in your daily diet.

Bananas

Although most fruits contain silica, bananas are the richest sources of silica. Essentially, a medium-sized banana contains about 4.77 milligrams of silicon dioxide.

Brown Rice

Nearly all types of rice contain silica. But brown rice contains the highest amount of silica. Three tablespoons contain about 5 milligrams of silica, which is quite impressive. So, if you want to lead a better life, consider increasing your intake of brown rice.

Lentils

Lentils are another rich source of silicon dioxide. Red lentils, in particular, contain the highest amounts of silicon dioxide. One tablespoon typically contains about 1.7 milligrams of silica.

Beer

This might sound funny but the truth is that beer contains more silica than any other foods or beverages. Silicon dioxide is derived through the brewing process and is most abundant in lagers.

Silica and Bone Health

According to research, silicon dioxide is beneficial to the bones. Human bones typically grow through a complicated process. From growth and modeling to remodeling, there’s quite a lot that happens throughout your life. So, just because your bones look healthy doesn’t mean that they’ll always stay that way. The strength of your bones depends on two aspects: bone mineral density (BMD) and bone matrix bone quality. Silicon dioxide is highly rich in minerals that boost muscle growth and enhance your overall bone health.

Additional Benefits

Silica has numerous health benefits. For instance, it can help with GERD and IBS, which are common gastrointestinal disorders. Thus, if you have digestive issues, it’s time you try out silicone dioxide. It can play a significant role in relieving your symptoms.

Source of Silicon Dioxide

There are so many things on earth that contain silicon dioxide. But you may probably want to boost your dietary intake of this essential mineral. Foods such as whole grains, green beans, as well as, leafy greens are rich in silicon dioxide. It’s also believed that beer contains substantial amounts of silica. It’s also important to note that barley and hops are rich sources of this mineral. With a 100 g serving, you can get about 10.17 milligrams.

Another option is to take silica supplements. But before taking these supplements, be sure to consult your doctor. Silicon dioxide supplements aren’t regulated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). Always purchase your supplements from an accredited vendor. If you aren’t sure about the dosage, don’t hesitate to make inquiries from a healthcare professional. Research shows that most people benefit from doses of about 40 milligrams a day. You can also find silicon dioxide in collagen supplements.

Potential Side Effects

Silica is generally considered to be safe. But when ingested as food, silicon dioxide is usually much safer than when it’s inhaled as small particles in the air. Thus, it’s always better to rely on food sources. It’s one of the most sustainable and bioavailable forms of ingesting silica.

Health Benefits

Here are some of the biggest benefits of taking silica-based foods

Skin Health

Silica can be used to promote the healthy growth of the skin. It can also help your nails to grow healthy. This is because it makes the nails strong. It helps make your skin elastic.

Joint Health

The heath of your joints is dependent on the amount of silica you take. Remember, silica plays a key role when it comes to the elasticity of collagen.

Bone Health

Silica will help your body utilize calcium efficiently, which promotes the health of your bones and joints.

Heart Health

If you are suffering from hearth related conditions, think silica. Silica is known for its power of strengthening the blood vessels as well as muscle tissue. It also helps the electrochemical transmission of the nervous system work better.

Other Benefits

Here are other benefits of taking silica:

Eliminates digestive disorders

Boosts your immunity

Improves the healing process

Keeps Alzheimer’s disease at bay

The above guide will help you understand the use of silica in foods. Still more, you will learn why you need silica and how it can benefit your body. This information will help you make a wise decision as far as purchasing silica-based foods is concerned.