Abstract
- Background
Growing evidence from a variety of experimental models shows that boron is a bioactive and beneficial—and potentially essential—element for human health. Boron influences a wide spectrum of physiological processes, though clear guidelines on optimal daily dietary intake remain evolving.
- Methods
This review synthesizes experimental, clinical, and biochemical evidence evaluating the biological role and systemic effects of boron in humans and animal models. It examines reported physiological outcomes, investigates potential underlying biochemical pathways—specifically boron-ribose ester interactions—and assesses dietary intake requirements across different populations.
- Results
Reported beneficial actions of boron include arthritis alleviation or risk reduction, support of bone growth and maintenance, enhancement of central nervous system function, reduction of cancer risk, hormone facilitation, and modulation of immune response, inflammation, and oxidative stress. The diverse effects of boron indicate that it influences the formation or activity of key entities involved in fundamental biochemical processes. Mechanistically, the formation of boroesters with the ribose moiety of critical biomolecules, such as $S$-adenosylmethionine ($\text{SAMe}$) and oxidized nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide ($\text{NAD}^+$), may account for its widespread bioactivity. Human and animal data consistently indicate that optimal boron intake should exceed $1.0\text{ mg/day}$. However, many individuals routinely consume less than this threshold.
- Conclusions
A low intake of boron ($<1.0\text{ mg/day}$) represents an unrecognized health concern. Adequate boron status can be readily achieved and maintained through diets rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and pulses.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2156587211407638