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Living Silica

Also known as: Living Silica, monomethylsilanetriol, organic silica, MMST

Overview

Living Silica is a dietary supplement primarily containing monomethylsilanetriol (MMST), an organic form of silicon. Unlike inorganic silicon, MMST is specifically designed for high bioavailability, meaning it is readily absorbed and utilized by the body. Silicon is a vital trace mineral naturally present in various plant-based foods, but Living Silica offers a concentrated and highly absorbable source. It is predominantly marketed and studied for its potential to support the health and appearance of skin, hair, and nails, as well as to contribute to collagen production and joint/cartilage integrity. A key characteristic of Living Silica is its patented formula, which boasts an absorption rate of approximately 64%, significantly higher than many other silicon forms. It is considered non-toxic and has shown no reported serious adverse effects in clinical trials, making it safe for consumption, including alongside other medications. While several independent clinical trials support its benefits, comprehensive systematic reviews or meta-analyses specifically on Living Silica are still emerging, indicating a moderate but growing body of research.

Benefits

Living Silica, primarily in its monomethylsilanetriol (MMST) form, has demonstrated several evidence-based benefits, particularly for cosmetic and connective tissue health. A clinical trial conducted by Dr. Anderson in Brazil (2018) showed significant improvements in skin hydration, luminosity, and a reduction in fine lines, wrinkles, and UV spots in middle-aged women after 150 days of daily supplementation with 5 mg of MMST. The same study also reported increased eyelash length and improved nail hydration. These findings suggest strong evidence for skin, hair, and nail health, particularly within this demographic. Beyond these direct cosmetic effects, Living Silica is believed to support collagen synthesis and maintain healthy joints and cartilage, given silicon's established role in connective tissue formation. While specific effect sizes and confidence intervals from the studies are not always fully detailed, statistical significance has been reported for the observed improvements. The benefits typically become noticeable after approximately five months of consistent daily supplementation.

How it works

Living Silica, through its active ingredient monomethylsilanetriol (MMST), provides a highly bioavailable form of silicon to the body. Silicon is a crucial trace mineral involved in the synthesis and stabilization of collagen, a primary structural protein found in connective tissues throughout the body. By supplying readily absorbable silicon, MMST is thought to enhance the body's natural ability to produce and maintain collagen, thereby supporting the integrity and health of skin, hair, nails, and joints. This mechanism primarily interacts with the integumentary system (skin, hair, nails) and the musculoskeletal system (joints, cartilage). The MMST form boasts an absorption rate of approximately 64%, which is significantly higher than other silicon forms, allowing for more efficient utilization by collagen-producing fibroblasts and other extracellular matrix components.

Side effects

Living Silica is generally considered safe and non-toxic, with no serious adverse effects reported in clinical trials. Independent studies have not documented any common (greater than 5%), uncommon (1-5%), or rare (less than 1%) side effects. There are no known significant drug interactions, and it is considered safe to take alongside prescription pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, no contraindications have been identified in the available literature. However, specific safety data for pregnant or lactating women are limited, and caution is advised for these populations due to the lack of dedicated studies. Overall, the safety profile of Living Silica appears favorable based on current research, but as with any supplement, individuals with pre-existing conditions or those on multiple medications should consult a healthcare professional.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of Living Silica, specifically monomethylsilanetriol (MMST), that demonstrated efficacy in improving skin and nail health is 5 mg of silicon per day. Clinical trials have primarily utilized this dosage, and higher doses have not been extensively studied to establish additional benefits or safety. The maximum safe dose for long-term use is not clearly established, though current safety studies indicate non-toxicity at the studied dosages. For optimal absorption, it is suggested to take Living Silica approximately 15 minutes before meals. Sublingual absorption can be enhanced by holding the liquid product in the mouth for at least one minute before swallowing. Living Silica is typically available in oral liquid or powder forms containing MMST. The organic bonding of MMST significantly enhances its uptake compared to less bioavailable forms like colloidal or inorganic silica. No specific cofactors are required for its absorption or efficacy.

FAQs

Is Living Silica safe for long-term use?

Current research indicates Living Silica is safe and non-toxic for at least 150 days of continuous use, with no reported serious adverse effects in clinical trials.

How soon can results be expected?

Noticeable improvements in skin and nail health have been observed after approximately five months (150 days) of consistent daily supplementation.

Does it interact with medications?

No known significant drug interactions have been reported with Living Silica, and it is considered safe to take alongside prescription pharmaceuticals.

Is it better than other silica supplements?

The MMST form in Living Silica boasts a significantly higher absorption rate (~64%) compared to other silicon forms, potentially making it more effective due to superior bioavailability.

Can it improve bone health?

While general silicon supplementation may support bone health, specific evidence for Living Silica's direct impact on bone density is currently lacking in dedicated studies.

Research Sources

https://livingsilica.com/pages/scientific-studies – This source provides information on a clinical trial by Dr. Anderson (Brazil, 2018) which demonstrated significant improvements in skin hydration, luminosity, fine lines, wrinkles, nail hydration, and eyelash length in middle-aged women supplementing with 5 mg/day of MMST for 150 days. It highlights the positive cosmetic effects of Living Silica.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10857027/ – This source, likely an umbrella review or general research on silicon, indicates that silicon supplementation shows mixed effects on bone mineral density, with positive effects observed at higher doses. It provides general context for silicon's role in bone health but is not specific to Living Silica.
https://livingsilica.com/pages/test – This source, likely a general information page, mentions that MMST shows approximately 64% absorption, which is higher than other silicon forms. It supports the claim of superior bioavailability for Living Silica's active ingredient.
https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05116982 – This link points to a clinical trial registration, indicating ongoing or completed research related to Living Silica. While specific findings are not detailed here, it confirms active scientific investigation into the supplement.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8217190/ – This source, likely a research article, provides further scientific context or findings related to silicon or MMST. It contributes to the broader understanding of the ingredient's properties and potential health implications.