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Diatomaceous Earth

Also known as: Amorphous silicon dioxide, Diatomaceous earth, DE, Fossil shell flour

Overview

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a naturally occurring substance composed of the fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of hard-shelled algae. Its primary component is amorphous silicon dioxide (SiO₂), typically comprising 80-90% of its composition. Food-grade DE, characterized by a particle size ranging from 10 to 200 μm, is used as a dietary supplement. Industrial grades of DE contain crystalline silica, which is toxic and unsuitable for consumption. Research suggests potential benefits such as cholesterol management and heavy metal detoxification, but these findings are based on limited human clinical data. The amorphous silica in DE can convert to orthosilicic acid (OSA) in the stomach, though systemic absorption is minimal (less than 1%).

Benefits

Diatomaceous earth has shown potential in several areas, though research is preliminary. Studies suggest that a daily intake of 750mg of DE may lead to reductions in LDL-C and triglyceride levels, with effects peaking around week 6. Some evidence indicates that DE may bind to heavy metals like aluminum in vitro, potentially aiding in detoxification, although human studies are lacking. Anecdotal reports suggest digestive support, but these claims lack clinical validation. Additionally, colloidal silica in DE may act as an antioxidant by scavenging free radicals. However, the overall quality of evidence is low, and more rigorous studies are needed to confirm these benefits.

How it works

The mechanism of action for diatomaceous earth involves several proposed pathways. In lipid modulation, silica may interfere with cholesterol absorption in the gastrointestinal tract through physical adsorption. For metal chelation, the negative surface charge of SiO₂ can bind to positively charged metals like aluminum. Once ingested, amorphous silica converts to orthosilicic acid (OSA) in the gastric environment. However, the bioavailability of silica from DE is low, with less than 1% being systemically absorbed. This limited absorption may impact the extent of its systemic effects.

Side effects

Common side effects of diatomaceous earth include constipation, reported in 7-12% of users at doses exceeding 3g/day, and general gastrointestinal irritation. Inhalation of DE poses a risk of pulmonary inflammation. Diatomaceous earth is contraindicated in individuals with COPD, silicosis, or during pregnancy due to a lack of safety data. It may also interact with other substances, potentially reducing the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and certain medications if taken concurrently. Due to limited long-term safety data, periodic use is recommended. It is crucial to use only food-grade DE to avoid the risks associated with crystalline silica.

Dosage

The effective dosage of diatomaceous earth, based on limited studies, is 250mg three times daily, totaling 750mg per day. A maximum daily dose of 1-2g is suggested, but safety data above this range is limited. It is recommended to take DE with meals to minimize gastrointestinal effects. Only food-grade DE should be used, avoiding forms containing crystalline silica. Due to the potential for reduced absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and medications, it is advisable to take DE separately from these substances. Long-term safety studies are lacking, so periodic use is recommended.

FAQs

Does DE detoxify heavy metals?

Diatomaceous earth has demonstrated aluminum-binding capabilities in vitro. However, there are currently no human randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that confirm systemic detoxification effects.

How long until cholesterol benefits?

Studies suggest that significant reductions in cholesterol levels may be observed by week 2 of DE supplementation, with maximal effects occurring around week 6 of consistent use.

Is food-grade DE safe long-term?

Current research on food-grade diatomaceous earth is limited to studies of 8 weeks or less. Therefore, periodic use is generally recommended due to the lack of comprehensive long-term safety data.

Research Sources

https://www.agriscigroup.us/articles/ALO-8-114.php – This uncontrolled before-after study (n=19) investigated the effects of diatomaceous earth on cholesterol levels. The findings indicated a reduction in LDL-C by 18% and triglycerides by 13% at 6 weeks, but the study's limitations include the lack of a control group and a small sample size, resulting in a low Jadad score of 1/5.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4509483/ – This toxicology review analyzed the physicochemical properties of diatomaceous earth samples globally. The results showed that food-grade DE exhibits low cytotoxicity, with less than 10% cell death at a concentration of 100μg/mL, but the study is limited to in vitro analysis without human exposure data.
https://www.biolscigroup.us/articles/ALO-8-114.pdf – This narrative review proposes a mechanism for diatomaceous earth, suggesting that silica binds to aluminum. However, this remains a theoretical framework without clinical validation, limiting its applicability.
https://draxe.com/nutrition/diatomaceous-earth/ – This article discusses the potential health benefits of diatomaceous earth, including its use as a detoxifying agent and for improving digestive health. It highlights the importance of using food-grade DE and provides general information on its composition and uses.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38954519/ – This study investigates the effects of silicon dioxide nanoparticles on the gut microbiome and intestinal barrier function in mice. The results indicate that exposure to these nanoparticles can alter the gut microbiota composition and compromise the intestinal barrier, suggesting potential implications for gut health.