Boron is an inexpensive trace mineral from plant foods that helps the body retain calcium and magnesium, supporting bone health, and may ease joint discomfort. Claims about raising testosterone, sharpening thinking, and lowering cancer risk remain unproven. It is safe at low supplement doses; main cautions involve pregnancy, reduced kidney function, and misuse of industrial boron products. (Full Review)
| Marker | Target | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 25-hydroxyvitamin D | 40–60 ng/mL | Boron helps preserve active vitamin D |
| Magnesium (RBC) | RBC 6.0–6.5 mg/dL | Enables boron's calcium-sparing effect |
| Serum calcium | 9.0–10.0 mg/dL | Part of the mineral economy boron influences |
| hs-CRP | < 1.0 mg/L | Tracks boron's anti-inflammatory signal |
| Free & total testosterone | Upper-normal for age and sex | Relevant when hormonal effect is the goal |
| SHBG | Mid-normal range | Boron's hormonal action lowers this binding protein |
| eGFR | > 60 mL/min/1.73 m² | Boron is cleared by the kidneys; low values raise toxicity risk |
Cadence: Recheck at 8–12 weeks after starting, then every 6–12 months; kidney function before starting and periodically in older adults or those with impaired clearance