Boron as fast food for bones
Borax crystals photo © Arum Dulyan
A deficiency of boron may seem an unlikely cause of arthritis and osteoporosis in the human species for three reasons. Firstly, this nutrient is more abundant than any trace element, secondly, it is applied as fertiliser to common crops such as brassicas, and thirdly, it is incorporated as a mineral in bone itself. The catalytic physiology of boron is, however, peculiarly unthrifty, with the kidneys excreting it immediately after it has been used to activate enzymes that build or repair the skeleton. The result is that dietary intake of boron needs to be continual for the maintenance of a sound skeleton, and that a deficiency in this nutrient can easily occur.
Robin and the Honey Badger, 22 August 2016