What is Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth?
Food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE) is a naturally occurring, fine, off-white powder made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. These diatoms have skeletons composed of amorphous (non-crystalline) silica. This amorphous structure is key to its relative safety for human consumption compared to other forms of DE. Unlike industrial-grade DE, which is heat-treated and contains higher levels of harmful crystalline silica, food-grade DE undergoes minimal processing and contains less than 1% crystalline silica, along with trace minerals like magnesium and iron.
Food Grade vs. Industrial Grade Diatomaceous Earth
Understanding the crucial difference between the two primary grades of diatomaceous earth is essential for consumer safety. Consuming or even inhaling industrial-grade DE is highly dangerous due to its high crystalline silica content.
| Feature | Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth | Industrial/Filter-Grade Diatomaceous Earth |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Primarily amorphous silica, <1% crystalline silica. | High in crystalline silica, up to 60%. |
| Origin | Mined from freshwater lake beds. | Can be from saltwater sources; heat-treated. |
| Processing | Sun-dried and untreated. | Heat-treated (calcined) to alter structure for filtration. |
| Purpose | Animal feed additive, anti-caking agent, and sometimes sold as a human supplement. | Pool filters, water purification, abrasives, dynamite production. |
| Safety | Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for incidental consumption but unsafe to inhale. | Toxic to mammals if ingested or inhaled. |
The Truth About Health Claims
Despite anecdotal reports and marketing, scientific evidence does not support most of the significant health claims associated with ingesting food grade diatomaceous earth as a dietary supplement.
Detoxification
- Claim: DE's ability to filter out impurities in water is extrapolated to suggest it can detoxify the human digestive tract by binding to heavy metals and toxins.
- Evidence: There is no human research to prove this filtering mechanism works within the human digestive system. The body's own organs, like the liver and kidneys, are highly effective at natural detoxification.
Digestive Health
- Claim: It can improve digestion, cleanse the colon, and provide relief from constipation.
- Evidence: Some people report improved regularity, but research is insufficient to confirm these benefits. The gritty nature may help, but high doses could also cause irritation or constipation.
Hair, Skin, and Nails
- Claim: Due to its high silica content, it can strengthen hair, skin, and nails.
- Evidence: While silica is important for these tissues, studies have not shown that silica from DE is effectively absorbed by the body. Most of it passes through unchanged.
Cholesterol and Bone Health
- Claim: It can help lower cholesterol and support bone density.
- Evidence: A single small, older study showed a reduction in cholesterol, but it lacked a placebo control group, making the findings inconclusive. While some research links dietary silicon intake to bone health, it's unclear if the silica from DE is a bioavailable source.
Risks and Safety Precautions
While food-grade DE is considered safe for consumption in small amounts, there are important safety considerations.
The Danger of Inhalation
The single most important risk to understand is the danger of inhaling DE dust. Although food-grade DE contains low levels of crystalline silica, inhaling any fine powder can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure, especially to industrial-grade DE, can lead to serious lung diseases like silicosis. Always wear a mask when handling the powder and apply it in a well-ventilated area.
Digestive Irritation and Other Side Effects
- Digestive Issues: The abrasive nature of DE can cause digestive tract irritation, particularly with high dosages. Starting with a small amount and increasing slowly is often advised.
- Constipation: Ingesting DE without sufficient water intake can lead to constipation due to its absorbent properties. Staying hydrated is critical.
- "Die-Off" Symptoms: Some users report flu-like symptoms, such as headaches and fatigue, often referred to as a "die-off" reaction. This is not scientifically proven and may simply be a side effect of digestive changes. If symptoms persist, discontinue use and consult a doctor.
Lack of Regulation
As a dietary supplement, food-grade DE is not regulated by the FDA, meaning its safety, effectiveness, purity, and potency are not guaranteed. The quality can vary between brands, and there are no standardized dosages backed by scientific research.
How to Ingest Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth (Anectodal Methods)
Given the lack of scientific backing and regulation, any usage is based on anecdotal evidence. Those who choose to take it often follow these steps:
- Start Small: Begin with about one teaspoon per day mixed thoroughly into a liquid like water or juice.
- Increase Gradually: If well-tolerated, you may increase the dosage slowly over several weeks, up to a maximum of one to two tablespoons per day.
- Hydrate Well: Drink plenty of extra water throughout the day to prevent constipation, as DE absorbs moisture.
- Timing: Some suggest taking it on an empty stomach, either an hour before or two hours after eating.
- Avoid Continuous Use: Some users take breaks, such as 10 days on and 10 days off, to give their body a rest.
Crucially, always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have pre-existing health conditions. A better and scientifically supported way to get the silica mineral is through diet by consuming silica-rich foods like bananas, oats, and green beans.
Conclusion: Informed Caution is Key
While you can ingest food grade diatomaceous earth, doing so should be approached with caution and realistic expectations. The FDA considers it safe for incidental use in food, but its efficacy as a health supplement is largely unsubstantiated by scientific research. The most significant risk comes from inhalation, which can be easily avoided with proper handling. Until more rigorous human studies are conducted, it is wise to focus on proven dietary sources of minerals and to consult a healthcare provider before adding any new supplement to your routine. For more information on pesticide safety, you can reference the National Pesticide Information Center, which also discusses diatomaceous earth.
