Ashish Chanchlani Swears By Boron: Is It a Bone Health Miracle?
Popular YouTuber and fitness enthusiast Ashish Chanchlani recently sparked conversation about boron supplements. In a chat with Soha Ali Khan on Mashable India, he highlighted boron's role in bone health. "Boron helps you with your bone health. People often overlook boron," Chanchlani stated. This endorsement prompted a deeper look into the science behind this trace mineral.
What Exactly Is Boron?
Boron is a trace mineral naturally present in various foods. You can find it in nuts, fruits like raisins and prunes, vegetables, and legumes. Dr. Mrinal Prakash, a consultant in orthopaedics and joint replacement at KIMS Hospitals in Thane, explains its function. Boron assists the body in utilizing key minerals more effectively. These include calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D, all crucial for maintaining strong bones.
Potential Benefits for Bones and Joints
Dr. Prakash clarifies the advertised claims. Supplements often promote boron for joint health, bone strength, and hormonal balance. "In sufficient amounts, boron may help maintain bone density and joint function," he says. Research suggests it might reduce calcium loss through urine. This could support bone strength, particularly in older adults.
The expert also notes boron's influence on hormones. It appears to enhance the availability of testosterone and estrogen. This connection explains why some individuals take it for hormonal health. Emerging evidence points to boron potentially affecting inflammation markers, such as C-reactive protein. This might contribute to improved joint comfort.
Is Boron a Cure for Arthritis?
Dr. Prakash is clear on this point. Boron is not a cure for arthritis. However, it may play an indirect supportive role. By aiding bone metabolism and possibly reducing mild inflammation, some people report less joint stiffness. "It should be viewed as a supportive nutrient, not a replacement for medical treatment or physiotherapy," he asserts.
Important Risks and Precautions
Taking excessive boron can lead to problems. Dr. Prakash outlines the potential issues:
- High doses over time may cause nausea, digestive discomfort, headaches, or skin irritation.
- In very large amounts, boron can be toxic and might impair kidney function.
- The general upper limit for adults is 20 mg per day. Staying well below this is advisable unless a doctor recommends otherwise.
Specific groups need extra caution:
- Kidney disease patients: Impaired kidneys can lead to toxic boron buildup.
- Those with hormone-sensitive conditions: Since boron can raise estrogen and testosterone levels, individuals with conditions like endometriosis or certain cancers should be very careful.
- Pregnant or nursing women: Consultation with a doctor is essential before use.
- Multi-supplement users: To avoid accidental overconsumption, self-prescribing is not recommended.
Do Most People Need Supplements?
For the majority, dietary sources are sufficient. "A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains usually provides sufficient boron for bone and joint health," Dr. Prakash explains. So, while boron can support bone and hormonal health in proper amounts, it is not a miracle supplement.
The expert emphasizes a holistic approach. Long-term skeletal health depends more on overall nutrition, regular weight-bearing exercise, and professional medical advice than on any single nutrient. Always consult your healthcare practitioner before starting any new supplement routine.
