Did you know? It matters which form of silicon you choose!
If you're interested in the whys and a little bit of chemistry, then this blog post will be interesting for you.
What is silicon?
Silicon is the second most common element in the Earth's crust after oxygen, and is one of the most important trace elements in dogs' bodies, which can only be provided to them through diet.
The highest concentrations of silicon are measured in cells that grow rapidly, such as in hair, claws, bones, and skin cells.
However, the reason we are discussing it now is primarily its effect on the health of bones, cartilage, tendons, and connective tissues. Let's see what these are:
- Support for connective tissues:
siliconplays a crucial role in the metabolism of connective tissue (collagen, keratin, elastin, ...), maintains the structure of fibers in connective tissues, and stimulates cell division for the production of new connective tissue.
- Bone formation and bone flexibility:
Silicon plays a role in the synthesis of collagen, which is a key component of bone tissue. Collagen provides structure and strength to bones, helping to prevent fractures and maintain bone health. Silicon promotes the formation of cross-links in collagen fibers, which makes bones more resistant and flexible.
- Bone strength:
Silicon helps the incorporation of calcium and phosphorus into bone tissue, contributing to proper bone density. Higher bone density is associated with stronger bones and a reduced risk of fracture.
- Support for tendons:
Tendons are connective tissues that attach muscles to bones, providing stability and transmitting force during movement. Silicon plays a role in maintaining the integrity and strength of tendons by promoting the synthesis of collagen and other structural proteins in tendon tissues.
- Cartilage health:
Cartilage practically provides cushioning and shock absorption in dogs' bodies, helping to prevent joint pain and stiffness. Silicon aids in the formation of proteoglycans, which are molecules in cartilage that help retain water and maintain structure.
As years pass, the concentration of silicion in our dogs' bodies rapidly decreases, leading, among other things, to minimized collagen production. This results in reduced elasticity of bones, cartilage, and connective tissues, and muscles and ligaments become looser and more susceptible to injury. Generally, it can be said that around 6-7 years of age, the amount of silicon in dogs' bodies is 70-80% lower than at 1.5 years of age.
What are the natural dietary sources of silicon?
- Plant sources: e.g., whole grains, nettle, common horsetail, bamboo
- Animal sources: mainly found in offal
- Other: Mineral water
There are two problems with these sources. One is that our dogs can consume them in limited quantities, and the other is that although silicon is abundant in nature, it is not biologically available in atomic form, meaning it cannot be properly absorbed.
Pay attention to this when choosing a dietary supplement
Silicic acid is a fantastic supplement for your dog, but for the best effect, the form in which it is found in the dietary supplement matters.
The most effectively absorbed form of silicic acid is liquid ortho-silicic acid.
Ortho-silicic acid is a water-soluble form of silicon that is easily absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and reaches various tissues of the body, including bones, tendons, and connective tissues.
Why is VitalTier's "MUSCLE&TENDON" product based on Monomeric OSA (or Monomeric Ortho-silicic acid)?
Different forms of ortho-silicic acid (OSA) can be used in dietary supplements, available in polymeric and monomeric forms. These forms have different properties and bioavailability in dietary supplements:
What is the difference between polymeric and monomeric ortho-silicic acid in dietary supplements?
Monomeric OSA: Monomeric ortho-silicic acid refers to individual OSA molecules in a solution. This form is generally more soluble and more bioavailable, meaning it is more easily absorbed by the body. Monomeric OSA is the active form of silicon that contributes to health benefits, such as supporting bone and connective tissue health.
Polymeric OSA: Polymeric ortho-silicic acid contains multiple OSA molecules linked together to form larger structures. Polymeric OSA forms are generally less soluble and may have lower bioavailability compared to the monomeric form. However, some polymeric silicon forms, such as silica nanoparticles, may have unique properties that can be useful in certain applications, such as drug carriers or food additives.
In the case of dietary supplements, manufacturers may use various methods to stabilize ortho-silicic acid and prevent its polymerization, ensuring that it remains in monomeric form for optimal bioavailability. For example, choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid (ch-OSA) is a commonly used form in supplements made from monomeric OSA, where choline helps the OSA molecules remain in a stable, monomeric state.
This is why we make MUSCLE & TENDON Monomeric OSA. It ensures easier solubility and best absorption, to provide truly effective protection for your pet's connective tissues, bones, and ligaments.
MUSCLE & TENDON contains the highest biologically active and stable silicon concentration, in pure form, with added MSM and glucosamine.
As a result:
- Promotes the creation and regeneration of connective tissue (stimulates endogenous synthesis of glucosamine, among other things)
- Results in stronger bones, more flexible ligaments, and joints.
- Enhances mobility, making your pet more active and full of life.
