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Boron is a trace mineral that plays an important role in maintaining healthy bones, cartilage, and joints. It is also essential for the absorption of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. In addition, boron has been credited with enhancing brain function and promoting mental alertness.

Good Food Sources: Raisins, almonds, prunes, most noncitrus fruits, and leafy green vegetables. (The level of boron in various foods depends on the level of boron in the soil.)

Signs of Deficiency: No cases of boron deficiency have been reported. Low levels of boron have been associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.

Uses of Boron: Boron is used in the treatment of osteoarthritis and osteoporosis .Dosage Information: Boron is not included in many multivitamin–mineral formulas because the federal government has not established an RDA for boron. For general health, look for a multivitamin that contains 1.5 to 3 milligrams of boron. If you have osteoarthritis or osteoporosis, consider taking 3 to 9 milligrams of boron daily in tablet or powder form. Look for sodium borate or boron chelates for osteoporosis; look for sodium tetraborate decahydrate for the treatment of osterthritis.

Possible Side Effects: No adverse effects have been noted when boron is taken at recommended levels (at or below 9 milligrams per day).

Possible Interactions: Boron may help the body conserve its supply of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. It may increase estrogen levels in postmenopausal women taking supplemental estrogen; it has not been found to raise estrogen levels in postmenopausal women not taking estrogen or in men or premenopausal women