Ascorbic acid however is required to act as an electron donor in specific enzymatic reactions that only will recognize it in order to function, as is the case with other antioxidant vitamins. Although many vitamins have shown antioxidant function in and beyond their role as enzymatic cofactors, antioxidants are now realized to act towards random free radicals generated by metabolism or detrimental intermediates and are preventing otherwise damaging free radical reactions.

Since the reduced silicate can provide electrons for numerous reactions as an antioxidant it is now being further investigated as to these important antioxidant functions. Since biological molecules can be prevented from oxidation (loss of electrons) when reduced hydrogen is present to provide electrons the reduced silicate mineral is providing another function in addition to mineral and electrolyte transport. This antioxidant function may be an important factor in the silicate mineral system found in glacier waters renowned for longevity and enhanced health in communities that consume water with these properties (4-7).

Biological Function of Silica

Silicon (element name) has been discovered to be an important trace element necessary for cartilage and bone tissue formation (18). Silicates are essentially non toxic when taken orally as evidenced by its use for over forty years as an over-the-counter ant-acid (magnesium trisilicate) for stomach indigestion. Silica compounds have also been used as pharmaceutical preparations (methylsilanetriol salicylate) for circulatory ischemias and osteoporosis (18). Silica compounds have unique buffering capacities shown often in their use in experimental biological systems (i.e.stabilizing biomolecules in column chromatography). A recent study found silica to provide a protective effect against high levels of aluminum in drinking water associated with cognitive impairment in the elderly especially when the pH was high (17). Solutions containing colloidal silicates have been used to successfully preserve canine hearts and kidneys for transplantation (19,21).

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