Trace element

• UK RNI None
• US RDA None

Functions

• May be involved in bone mineralization
• May help to reduce calcium loss from urine in postmenopausal women

Good food sources

• Apples
• Pears
• Prunes
• Pulses
• Raisins
• Tomatoes

Deficiency symptoms

Not known, but may include osteoporosis and menopausal symptoms.

Preventing deficiency

Consumption of good food sources and vegetables generally.

Comments

It is not yet considered proven that boron is an essential nutrient for man. However there is some evidence that boron is protective of bone minerals, and countries with the highest boron intake due to high soil levels (Israel and parts of some other countries) have the lowest incidence of arthritis.

SUPPLEMENTATION

In research studies, boron supplements have been found to:

• Increase concentrations of circulating oestrogen and testosterone in post-menopausal women
• Reduce calcium excretion through the urine in post-menopausal women.
• There are also claims that boron supplementation can reduce symptoms of arthritis.

Preferred form and suggested intake

For most purposes it is best taken as part of a multinutrient formula. Also available as a separate supplement. No more than 3 mg supplementation per day is required under normal circumstances, but individuals with arthritis may wish to start at 6-9 mg daily for a few weeks before dropping to 3 mg per day.

Cautions

Not enough is known about boron to give guidance, but there are no reports of toxicity from supplementation.

Availability: from health food shops and nutritional therapists.