Health Supplement

Folic acid (also known as vitamin B9 or folacin) and folate (the naturally occurring form), as well as pteroyl-L-glutamic acid and pteroyl-L-glutamate, are forms of the water-soluble vitamin B9.
It is used in our bodies for cell formation and multiplication, DNA replication, formation of red and white blood cells, and other important central functions. You can take in natural folic acid from many foods such as green, leafy vegetables, fruits, beans, peas, peanuts, and meat sources.

A deficiency of folate can occur when an increased need for folate is not matched by an increased intake, when dietary folate intake does not meet recommended needs, and when folate loss increases. Medications that interfere with the metabolism of folate may also increase the need for this vitamin and risk of deficiency.

Folic acid supplementation is encouraged for those who are possibly folic acid deficient and those who have increased need of it, such as in the case of pregnant women.
Folic acid has also been used as medication for treating conditions such as megaloblastic anemia, depression, heart conditions, and so on. However, before deciding that you need to take folic acid supplements yourself to counter any of these conditions, it is always best that you see your doctor beforehand.

Tolerable Upper Intake Levels for Folate for Children and Adults

Intake of supplemental folic acid should not exceed 1,000 micrograms (?g) per day to prevent folic acid from triggering symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency. Folic acid supplements can correct the anemia associated with vitamin B12 deficiency. Unfortunately, folic acid will not correct changes in the nervous system that result from vitamin B12 deficiency.

Source:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Folic_acid

http://www.nutritional-supplements-health-guide.com/side-effects-of-folic-acid.html

Silicon is present in important quantity in most of organic tissues, bony tissues, and connective tissues. The quantity of silicon in our body diminishes when we age. That is to say the importance of this composite to all the ages, and particularly during the third age to warn and avoid the deteriorations of reticule endothelial tissues , collagen, scleroses by calcification of tissues, weakening of bones and diseases of bone by decalcification (osteoporosis) by continuation of the difficulties of the fixing of calcium. Silica is one of those elements whose list of benefits keeps growing as time passes. Silica is a vital mineral that is almost completely over looked by mainstream nutritionists. As our silica supply diminishes, the soft tissues become stiff and lose elasticity. They become over calcified.

Silica supplements are taken regularly by millions of people to strengthen and improve their bones, connective tissue, hair, and skin. Silica adds strength and flexibility. It’s obvious why strength and flexibility are essential to skin and bones. It’s also important to know that silica supports blood vessel health, making it extremely important in supporting heart health.

There are many reasons for silica supplementation, including:
1. Silica Inhibits the aging process in tissues.
2. Silica helps maintain bone density and strength by facilitating deposits of calcium and minerals into the bone matrix.
3. Silica is vital for articular cartilage development.
4. Silica supports the inner lining of arterial tissue and increases the elasticity of blood vessels.
5. Silica can help maintain a youthful skin tone and increase collagen levels.
6. Silica helps hair grow thicker and stronger and nails grow faster and harder.
7. Silica stimulates the immune system to fight off disease-causing invaders – bacteria; viruses; toxins, since it is essential to the triggering process of manufacture of the antigens and antibodies.
8. Silica stimulates cell metabolism and cell formation, has mild disinfecting properties, and is an anti-inflammatory.

Source:
http://www.alternativehealthjournal.com/article/silica_and_silicon_amazing_new_health_benefits_from_this_trace_element/2367