Diatomaceous earth (diatomite) is a fascinating form of sand made up of fossilized algae, and it has recently surged in popularity as a dietary supplement, touted for its potential health advantages.

This remarkable substance has been extracted for many years and utilized in various industrial sectors. In this article, we delve into the existing research surrounding its health implications and benefits, providing a comprehensive understanding of its uses and effects.

What Is Diatomaceous Earth?

Diatomaceous earth, often referred to as a naturally occurring sand, is extracted from the earth and is composed primarily of the microscopic remains of algae known as diatoms, which have undergone fossilization over millions of years. This remarkable substance is categorized into two main types: food grade—which is safe for human consumption—and filter grade, which, while inedible, is widely used in various industrial applications.

The diatoms that constitute diatomaceous earth are predominantly made up of a chemical compound called silica. Silica is a ubiquitous element found in nature, appearing in everything from sand and rocks to plants and even humans. What sets diatomaceous earth apart is its high concentration of silica, making it a unique resource. In fact, commercially available diatomaceous earth typically contains about 80–90% silica, along with several trace minerals and small quantities of iron oxide (commonly known as rust).

Varieties of Silica: Food-Grade and Filter-Grade

Silica is predominantly found in two primary forms: crystalline and amorphous (non-crystalline). The crystalline variant showcases a glass-like appearance when examined under a microscope, which contributes to its appeal in various industrial applications.

These two principal categories of diatomaceous earth differ significantly in their concentrations of crystalline silica:

  • Food Grade: This variety contains between 0.5% and 2% of crystalline silica and is commonly utilized as an insecticide and anti-caking agent across agricultural and food sectors. It holds approval from regulatory bodies such as the EPA, USDA, and FDA, ensuring its safe use in edible products.
  • Filter Grade: Often referred to as non-food-grade, this type encompasses a crystalline silica concentration exceeding 60%. While it poses toxicity to mammals, it serves numerous industrial purposes, including water filtration systems and the production of dynamite.

Notably, food-grade diatomaceous earth is characterized by its minimal crystalline silica content, rendering it safe for human consumption. Conversely, filter-grade diatomaceous earth, with its elevated crystalline silica levels, is hazardous to human health.

Diatomaceous Earth as an Insecticide

Food-grade diatomaceous earth is widely recognized as an effective insecticide. This natural substance, rich in silica, works by coming into contact with insects, where it acts by stripping away the protective waxy layer from their exoskeletons. As a result, the insects are unable to retain moisture and ultimately succumb to dehydration. While some farmers advocate for the inclusion of diatomaceous earth in livestock feed to combat internal worms and parasites—believing it operates through similar mechanisms—this application remains largely unsubstantiated and requires further investigation. Nonetheless, diatomaceous earth continues to be a popular choice in pest control, particularly for its potential to eliminate not only insects but possibly other harmful organisms as well, though more research is necessary to confirm its efficacy in these areas.

Are There Health Benefits to Diatomaceous Earth?

Recently, food-grade diatomaceous earth has gained traction as a popular dietary supplement among health enthusiasts.

This natural substance is said to offer a variety of health benefits, including:

  • Detoxifying the digestive system.
  • Enhancing overall digestive health.
  • Contributing to improved cholesterol levels and heart function.
  • Delivering essential trace minerals to the body.
  • Supporting robust bone health.
  • Encouraging hair growth.
  • Boosting skin vitality and promoting strong nails.

Despite these claims, it is important to note that there is a lack of substantial human studies validating diatomaceous earth as an effective supplement; consequently, many of these assertions remain largely theoretical or based on personal experiences.

While manufacturers advocate for its numerous health benefits, scientific evidence supporting these claims is still insufficient.

Impact on Bone Health

Silicon, which is the non-oxidized form of silica, is one of several crucial minerals stored within the human body. While its precise role remains somewhat elusive, research indicates that it plays a significant part in maintaining bone health as well as the structural integrity of nails, hair, and skin. Notably, the presence of silica in diatomaceous earth has led some to believe that its consumption may enhance your silicon levels.

However, it is important to note that this particular form of silica does not dissolve well in liquids, making it poorly absorbed by the body, if at all. Some researchers suggest that silica might release small amounts of silicon that could be absorbed, yet this theory remains unverified and is considered unlikely. Therefore, the consumption of diatomaceous earth is unlikely to offer any substantial advantages for bone health.

Despite claims that the silica found in diatomaceous earth could bolster silicon levels in the body and fortify bones, substantial evidence to support these assertions is still lacking.

Impact on Toxins

A significant health assertion regarding diatomaceous earth is its potential to aid in detoxifying by purifying the digestive tract. This assertion stems from its remarkable capability to eliminate heavy metals from water, a characteristic that renders diatomaceous earth a favored choice in industrial-grade filtration systems. Despite this, there is a lack of scientific validation proving that this property can translate to human digestion or that it offers any substantial benefit to your digestive health.

Furthermore, it is critical to note that there is no substantial evidence indicating that individuals carry excessive toxins that necessitate removal. Your body is inherently equipped to neutralize and expel toxins independently.

Diatomaceous Earth May Help Reduce Cholesterol Levels

So far, a single limited human study has been conducted involving 19 individuals who had a history of elevated cholesterol levels to evaluate the effects of diatomaceous earth (diyatmash) as a dietary supplement. Participants were instructed to consume the supplement three times a day for a duration of eight weeks. By the conclusion of this research, it was observed that total cholesterol levels declined by approximately 13.2%. Notably, levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides experienced a modest decrease, while “good” HDL cholesterol saw an increase.

Despite these promising results, the absence of a control group in this trial means that it cannot definitively establish that diatomaceous earth was the decisive factor in lowering cholesterol levels. The researchers emphasized the necessity for a more rigorous placebo-controlled study to validate these findings. Another small-scale study indicated that diatomaceous earth might help lower cholesterol and triglycerides; however, due to its weak design, the results warrant further investigation.

Safety of Diatomaceous Earth

Food-grade diatomaceous earth is generally considered safe for consumption, as it travels through the digestive tract without being absorbed into the bloodstream. This makes it an intriguing option for various dietary applications. However, caution is paramount; inhaling diatomaceous earth can lead to significant respiratory issues. The fine particles can irritate your lungs similarly to dust, but due to the presence of silica, the effects can be more severe.

In particular, inhaling crystalline silica poses serious health risks, potentially leading to lung inflammation and scarring, a condition known as silicosis. This ailment is prevalent among miners and has been responsible for approximately 46,000 fatalities in the year 2013 alone. While food-grade diatomaceous earth contains less than 2% crystalline silica, it is crucial to understand that prolonged exposure through inhalation can still inflict damage on lung health.

The Bottom Line

Diatomaceous earth is often promoted as an essential wellness product, attracting attention in various health circles. However, despite the popularity of some dietary supplements that can indeed enhance well-being, there is currently no scientific evidence supporting the health benefits of diatomaceous earth. For those seeking to enhance their health, focusing on improving your diet and making positive lifestyle changes remains the most effective approach.