Silica Also indexed as: Active Hydrogen Silica hydride is a colloidal mineral compound containing silicon, oxygen, and hydrogen. According to the developers of this supplement, silica hydride contains a large number of loosely bound electrons that are available to help neutralize potentially dangerous free radicals.1 2 Test tube studies have demonstrated that silica hydride does neutralize free radicals and preserves the health of cells exposed to these radicals. However, whether silica hydride can be absorbed from the gastro-intestinal tract and whether it will affect the health of animals or humans has not been adequately tested. Where is it found? Since silica hydride is not essential, a recommended intake has not been established. Whether it is present in food or water is unknown. Supplements contain 200 to 250 mg per capsule. Who is likely to be deficient? Silica hydride is not an essential nutrient, so no deficiencies are possible. How much is usually taken? Since silica hydride is not essential, a recommended intake has not been established. Whether it is present in food or water is unknown. Supplements contain 200 to 250 mg per capsule. Are there any side effects or interactions? Due to the lack of published scientific research on silica hydride in animals or humans, side effects and interactions are unknown. At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with silica hydride. References 1. Stephanson CJ, Stephanson AM, Flanagan GP. Antioxidant capability and efficacy of Mega-H silica hydride, an antioxidant dietary supplement, by in vitro cellular analysis using photosensitization and fluorescence detection. J Med Food 2002;5:9–16. 2. Flanagan GP, Purdy-Lloyd K: A silicate mineral supplement, Microhydrin®, traps reduced hydrogen providing in vitro biological antioxidant properties. Proceedings: National Hydrogen Association 1999;10:595–610.