Boron Asparate
Also known as: Boron aspartate, Boron amino acid chelate, Boric acid, Boron
Overview
Boron is a trace element that plays a role in various biological and physiological functions in the human body. Found naturally in foods such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts, boron is also present in soil and water as inorganic borates (boric acid). It is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, where approximately 85% to 90% of ingested boron is utilized by the body. Boron supplementation is often advocated for its potential benefits on weight management, bone health, osteoarthritis relief, and metabolic functions. While research on boron is ongoing, particularly in animal models, existing human studies suggest promising outcomes, particularly concerning joint health and energy metabolism.
Benefits
Numerous studies support the potential benefits of boron: 1. **Weight Management**: A systematic review indicated that boron significantly reduces body weight in animal studies (WMD = -18.12 g, P < 0.001). 2. **Osteoarthritis**: Human trials point to boron's ability to alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms, with reduced joint rigidity noted in pilot studies. 3. **Bone Health**: Boron appears to enhance bone mineral density through effects on osteoblast and osteoclast activity. 4. **Metabolic Functions**: Evidence suggests a link between serum boron levels and improved insulin and energy metabolism, particularly in diabetic populations. The strongest evidence stems from systematic reviews and controlled trials, with noted effects particularly in populations with osteoarthritis or metabolic issues.
How it works
Boron interacts with various biological systems, enhancing energy metabolism, regulating calcium metabolism, and influencing hormone function. It affects key pathways related to lipolysis and thermogenesis, potentially increasing the body's ability to handle energy substrates. Boron also enhances the NAD+/NADH ratio, vital for efficient cellular bioenergetics. Furthermore, it can catalyze CO2 hydration, functioning similarly to carbonic anhydrase, thus promoting efficient energy use and metabolism.
Side effects
Boron is generally safe at recommended doses, but high intake can cause gastrointestinal issues like nausea, indigestion, and diarrhea. Less common side effects may include headaches, hypothermia, and restlessness. Rarely (less than 1% occurrence), excess boron can lead to severe outcomes, such as fatality at doses of 15,000 to 20,000 mg in adults, and in infants, it may trigger anemia and seizures. Caution is advised during pregnancy and lactation, and specific populations should avoid excessive doses due to potential reproductive and developmental risks.
Dosage
The recommended dosage range for boron typically lies between 3-12 mg per day, depending on the health goals. Effective doses for weight management and osteoarthritis symptoms may start as low as 3 mg/day, with higher doses yielding additional benefits in some cases. Although no official Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) is established for infants, the general UL is suggested to be 20 mg/day for adults. Boron can be consumed at any time of day, with peak absorption occurring 4-6 hours post-ingestion.
FAQs
Is boron safe to take?
When taken in recommended dosages, boron is considered safe. However, excessive intake can lead to toxicity.
What are the benefits of boron supplementation?
Boron may aid in weight management, improve bone health, and reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis.
How should I take boron?
Boron can be taken at any time of day. It's important to follow the recommended dosage guidelines to ensure safety.
Can boron interact with medications?
While limited evidence exists, boron may interact with the metabolism of other minerals and hormones, so consult with a healthcare provider.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35298949/ – This systematic review presents compelling evidence from animal studies indicating that boron can significantly decrease body weight, with outcomes particularly notable within a 4-week treatment window.
- https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Boron-HealthProfessional/ – The NIH overview details boron's health benefits, mechanisms, and considerations regarding supplementation, emphasizing its role in metabolism and musculoskeletal health.
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0946672X18301561 – This double-blind clinical trial showcases a 6 mg/day boron dosage leading to significant symptom relief among osteoarthritis patients, underscoring the need for further studies.
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/339648942_Relationship_Among_Blood_Boron_Level_Diabetes_Mellitus_Lipid_Metabolism_Bone_Metabolism_and_Obesity_Can_Boron_Be_An_Efficient_Indicator_for_Metabolic_Dissesases – This research highlights the correlation between blood boron levels and metabolic health, suggesting a role for boron in managing conditions like diabetes and obesity.
