Silicon MP, 100 capsules

Mesoporosil: innovative silicon in capsule form with high bioavailability

Silicon supplements are in high demand. Research is increasingly focusing on this fascinating trace element and its many possible applications. Solid silicon supplements (such as capsules or tablets) have often shown inadequate bioavailability. Until now, liquid (and not always palatable) silicon preparations have unfortunately been required to obtain readily absorbable silicon.

Thanks to the high-quality research work of the manufacturer Eytelia, this has now changed. The Silicium-MP from Vitals contains MESOPOROSIL®, a novel and unique form of silicon that can be easily absorbed in solid form. Due to its ideal bioavailability, a small daily dose of 6–12 mg silicon (one to two capsules) is sufficient. Very convenient. In addition, capsules (and tablets) have the advantage over liquid silicon preparations of being more shelf-stable and not requiring preservatives. Find out more below about the benefits of Silicium-MP!

Silicon: an important and multifaceted trace element

Silicon is the second most abundant element in the Earth's crust. The name "silicon" derives from the Latin word "silex", meaning flint or pebble. Silicon has a high affinity for oxygen, which is why it does not occur in pure form in nature but only bound to oxygen atoms, for example as silicon dioxide (also called silica).

Silicon dioxide from rocks can be dissolved in water, which leads to the formation of orthosilicic acid (English: orthosilicic acid, abbreviated OSA). See Figure 1. Plants absorb OSA from groundwater and deposit it in so‑called phytoliths. These are silicon dioxide deposits distributed throughout the plant that contribute, among other things, to structural strength. Silicon is also present in the human body; after iron and zinc it is one of the most common trace elements. Not everything about the role of silicon in humans is known yet. However, there is a growing number of scientific publications on silicon, and our knowledge of it is increasing.

Dietary silicon: predominantly of plant origin

Silicon content is particularly high in plant foods such as whole grains, legumes and dates. Horsetail, nettle and bamboo are also rich sources of silicon. These are generally not consumed directly but often form the basis for dietary supplements. Water and (non‑alcoholic) beer also contain silicon, although the content varies considerably.

Plant‑derived silicon is often poorly absorbed. Orthosilicic acid (OSA) is the naturally occurring dissolved form of silicon that is most effectively absorbed by plants and humans. However, plant silicon sources contain silicon dioxide, which is poorly soluble and therefore can only be absorbed to a limited extent. This is present as phytoliths, not as OSA, which is readily absorbed. As a result, uptake of silicon from plant sources such as whole grains and bananas, as well as from supplements containing nettle and bamboo, can be low.

Liquids such as (non‑alcoholic) beer and water that contain dissolved silicon in the form of OSA are the best sources of readily absorbable silicon. The form and processing of the silicon determine the absorbability of supplements. Only a handful of silicon preparations are easily absorbed. One example is monomethylsilanetriol (MMST). MMST is referred to as "organic" silicon because the silicon is bonded to a carbon atom. In chemistry, compounds containing carbon atoms are called organic compounds. As the name might suggest, the term "organic" has nothing to do with biological or plant‑based aspects or how "natural" this silicon compound is. In nature, silicon bonded to carbon does not exist. MMST is an artificially produced silicon compound that can only be easily absorbed in liquid form.

Choline‑stabilised orthosilicic acid

ch‑OSA represents another common variant of silicon, especially in liquid supplements. OSA, the silicon contained in liquid supplements, is very sticky at high concentrations. This makes proper absorption impossible. To prevent the molecules from sticking together, the silicon compound used must be stabilised. To ensure stability and absorbability, choline was added to the silicon compound. ch‑OSA should be taken in liquid form for good absorption.

MMST and ch‑OSA are liquid supplements which many people find unpleasant to take. They are not very convenient to use. The taste is not always pleasant. In addition, liquids typically have a short shelf life after opening. Therefore, preservatives are often required.

The manufacturer Eytelia offers MESOPOROSIL®, a new form of silicon that is characterised by both optimal absorbability and suitability for processing into capsules and tablets. Thanks to the specially patented technology, the silicon dissolves very well in digestive juices and forms optimally absorbable OSA. This technology also ensures that the dissolved OSA does not clump in the gastrointestinal tract and therefore remains excellently absorbable. The optimal, absorbable silicon in capsule or tablet form remains unique in the field of silicon dietary supplements!

Permitted cosmetic claims: Silicon helps to keep the skin firm, smooth and elastic. Silicon promotes skin hydration. Silicon contributes to nail strength and hair density.

Nutritionally relevant substances

* No reference intake according to the FIC is specified
MESOPOROSIL® is a registered trademark of Eytelia.

Ingredients

Rice starch (Oryza sativa), vegetable capsule (pullulan, from fermented cassava starch), silicon.

Recommended use

Take 1–2 capsules per day with water at a meal.

Storage instructions

Store in a cool, dry place protected from light (do not refrigerate).

Legal information

Do not exceed the recommended daily intake. Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a balanced and varied diet and a healthy lifestyle. Keep out of the reach of small children.