Medical expert of the article
New publications
Preparations
Food additives containing boron
Last reviewed: 07.07.2025
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
In 1987, Nielsen et al. examined the effects of boron, aluminum, and magnesium supplements on mineral metabolism in postmenopausal women. The results showed that boron supplements at 3 mg/day increased serum testosterone levels by 0.3 to 0.6 ng-dL. Many supplement companies quickly realized that high testosterone levels were associated with increased muscle mass and decreased fat mass. The market was soon flooded with boron-containing "testosterone booster" supplements.
[ Main functions of boron
- Natural testosterone synthesis enhancer.
- Increases muscle mass.
- Reduces fat mass.
Research results
Supplement companies used Nielsen's data to launch boron-containing products that claimed to be "natural" alternatives to anabolic steroids. What these companies failed to point out was that the study was conducted on 12 postmenopausal women aged 48 to 82, and that their estradiol levels also increased, and their body composition was not measured. In addition, normal male testosterone levels were about 10 times higher than the Nielsen results.
Green, Ferrando chose a more suitable group to study the ergogenic effect - 10 bodybuilders. They consumed 2.5 mg of boron per day or a placebo and trained for 7 weeks. No increase in testosterone levels was found. The researchers concluded that boron supplements do not have an anabolic effect.
Recommendations
Boron is a trace mineral found in trace amounts in raisins, plums, nuts, applesauce, and grape juice. The RDA does not provide a standard for boron, although some studies suggest that humans need approximately 0.5–1.0 mg of boron per day; 10 mg of boron per day appears to be harmless, but more than 50 mg of boron per day may cause toxic effects, including loss of appetite and gastrointestinal disturbances. Some studies suggest that boron may play a modest role in bone mineral status, but it does not appear to be an ergogenic aid.
Attention!
To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug "Food additives containing boron" translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.
Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.