Human Metabolome Database: Boron
Description
Boron is a chemical element with atomic number 5 and the chemical symbol B. It is a trivalent metalloid element and occurs abundantly in the ore borax. Boron is never found free in nature. Boron is an essential plant micronutrient, notably playing a role in plant fertilization and in the building of cell wall structures. Boron occurs in all foods produced by plants. Boron may be an essential nutrient for animals and humans. Dietary boron influences the activity of many metabolic enzymes, as well as the metabolism of steroid hormones and several micronutrients, including calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D. Boron supplementation in rats and chicks has been shown to increase bone strength. Since 1989 its nutritional value has been argued. The U.S. Department of agriculture conducted an experiment in which postmenopausal women took 3 mg of boron a day. The results showed that boron can drop excretion of calcium by 44%, and activate estrogen and vitamin D. Boron may also play a role in improving arthritis, plasma lipid profiles, and brain function. Additional research is necessary to further clarify boron's influence in human and animal physiology, as well as determine a dietary requirement for humans. Total daily boron intake in normal human diets ranges from 2.1-4.3 mg boron/kg body weight (bw)/day.
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