Boron

What is Boron?

Boron is a micromineral and the chemical element B with atomic number 5. Microminerals are also called trace elements. Unlike macrominerals, we need small amounts of microminerals. This does not mean that microminerals would not be important to us. Like macrominerals, they play a role in our body's metabolism and absorption of nutrients.

Boron is becoming increasingly common as an ingredient in dietary supplements, although it does not yet have the prominence that minerals like calcium or magnesium have. Some of us may remember the use of boron ointment as a skin-purifying ointment.

How does Boron work?

No reference intake has yet been established for boron in Europe because it is not (yet) classified among essential minerals. However, there is increasing interest in the function in the body of this previously relatively unknown trace element.

However, no health claims may yet be made for boron. However, EFSA (the European Food Safety Authority) has determined that the total maximum daily intake is 10 mg. The requirement is estimated at approximately 1 mg per day.

Boron is often added to calcium and magnesium supplements aimed at maintaining strong bones.

What contains boron?

In our diet, boron is mainly found in root vegetables such as potatoes, parsnips and carrots. Boron is also found in certain fruits such as apples and pears and in nuts. However, the amount of boron in foods depends on the soil in which they grow. Some regions have more boron in the soil than others. In addition, the use of pesticides also affects the amount of boron in farmland.

People buying Boron, also check out:

• Bones
• Minerals
• Calcium
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin K2

Written by: Marcella van der Wel
Reviewed by: Wouter Olthof

Updated: January 5, 2023