We take a deep dive into a little-known but influential trace mineral—boron. Although boron is only found in small amounts in our diets, it plays a vital role in maintaining our health and well-being. So, let’s demystify boron and discover its benefits, sources and some fun facts.
What is Boron?
Boron is a trace mineral found in the earth’s soil and water. While it doesn’t get as much attention as other minerals like calcium or iron, it’s vital to our health in its own subtle ways.
Boron is considered a ‘trace’ mineral because our bodies need it in very small amounts. However, don’t let the ‘trace’ tag fool you. Even in small quantities, Boron contributes significantly to our overall health.
One of the fascinating things about boron is its multifaceted effects in the body. It is known to support bone health, aid metabolic processes, and even enhance brain function and cognitive abilities.
Additionally, boron plays a vital role in the absorption of other minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. It’s a team player that increases the effectiveness of these other essential nutrients!
Health Benefits
Bone Health
Boron plays an important role in maintaining strong bones. It aids in the metabolism and utilization of key minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which are essential for bone formation.
Arthritis Relief
Boron can help reduce symptoms of arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory properties and its effect on bone health.
Cognitive Performance
Boron isn’t just linked to health. It also has impressive benefits for our brains. Boron can enhance cognitive abilities and improve tasks such as problem solving and concentration.
Hormonal Balance
Boron can influence the production and utilization of hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, helping with overall hormonal balance.
Antioxidant Support
Boron has antioxidant properties, helping to fight off harmful free radicals and protect the body from oxidative stress.
Wound Healing
Boron promotes wound healing. It helps produce enzymes needed to repair damaged skin and tissue.
Digestive Health
Boron aids in the digestion and absorption of nutrients, contributing to overall gut health.
Side Effects
Digestive Upset
Excessive intake of boron, especially in supplement form, can cause digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Skin Inflammation
Some people who consume too much boron may experience skin inflammation or rashes.
Hormonal Imbalance
While boron can help balance hormones, excess amounts can disrupt hormonal balance, potentially affecting mood and energy levels.
Kidney Damage
Very high doses of Boron can lead to kidney damage over time. This is rare but is a risk if Boron is consumed excessively.
Food Sources
Animal-Based Food Sources of Boron
Plant-Based Food Sources of Boron
Other Boron Sources
Best Overall: Horbäach Triple Boron Complex at Amazon ($10)
Best Budget: Bronson Boron 3 MG at Amazon ($10)
Best Overall: Horbäach Triple Boron Complex
- Triple Action Boron: Horbaach’s triple action complex contains 3 forms of this beneficial mineral.
- Convenient Form: Advanced tablets make it super simple to add to your daily regimen!
- Expertly Crafted: Our professional formula is backed by our commitment to purity and potency.
- Horbaach Manufacturers: Laboratory Tested, Trusted Ingredients, Superior Quality, 100% Guaranteed!
- Naturally Free Of: Gluten, Wheat, Yeast, Milk, Lactose, Soy, Artificial Preservatives & NON-GMO.
- Brand: Horbäach
- Flavor: Vegetarian
- Item Form: Tablets
- Unit Count: 300.00 Count
Best Budget: Bronson Boron 3 MG
- High Quality & Great Value: Bronson Boron provides 3 MG of Boron (as Boroganic Glycine) to support strong bones.* We strive to support your good health and well-being through high quality supplements at the best value.
- Chelated Superior Absorption: By utilizing the premier manufacturer of chelated minerals (Albion Minerals), Bronson’s Boron 3 MG provides superior absorption, stability and overall quality. Albion Minerals are backed by science and an impressive 150+ patents ranging from manufacturing processes to food applications.
- Superior Quality: Laboratory tested GMO-Free, Gluten-Free and Soy-Free. Bronson products are in-house tested and carefully manufactured by trained professionals in our state-of-the-art facility that is located in Hauppauge, New York.
- cGMP Premium Standards: Every product manufactured by Bronson is put through a rigorous process to ensure purity, potency and integrity. Through our very own cGMP Certified New York Facility that complies with the most current regulations, we promise to deliver top-quality supplements that are consistently verified for quality and safety.
- Trusted Since 1960: The pioneers of Bronson Vitamins were a group of pharmacists who witnessed the benefits of vitamins and mineral supplementation firsthand with their patients. Bronson Vitamins have been consistently mentioned by top medical professionals since our inception in 1960.
- Brand: Bronson
- Flavor: Vegetarian
- Item Form: Tablet
- Unit Count: 250.00 Count
Fun Facts
Fact 1: Not Just for Humans
Boron is not only vital to human health. It is also essential for plant growth and health, playing a key role in cell wall formation and helping to regulate metabolic activity.
Fact 2: A Young Discovery
Compared to many elements, Boron’s discovery is relatively recent. It was first isolated in 1808 by Sir Humphry Davy, Joseph Louis Gay-Lussac, and Louis Jacques Thénard.
Fact 3: Boron in Diamonds
Did you know that some of the most beautiful blue diamonds in the world owe their color to boron? This mineral can replace carbon atoms in diamonds, producing the stunning blue hue.
Fact 4: A Versatile Element
Apart from its role in health and nutrition, Boron has numerous industrial applications. It’s used in making glass and ceramics, as an ingredient in rocket fuel, and even in the production of resistant fibers used in sports equipment.
Fact 5: A Defender Against Pests
In the plant world, boron helps protect against certain pests and diseases. Some plants even use boron to deter herbivores!
