Introduction:
The foods containing boron are listed below as a reference only. Boron is sometimes present in multivitamin and other supplements. According to the Institute of Medicine, Food and Nutrition Board, boron has a role in reproduction and development in various animals. However, there is no biologic function for boron determined in humans.
Boron recommended dietary allowance:
There is no recommended dietary allowance for boron. The upper limit of boron intake was determined by the Institute of Medicine Food and Nutrition Board to be 0.32 mg per kilogram of bodyweight per day. This was decided by this source based upon toxicity seen in animals at this dose level.
Boron adverse effects:
Adverse effects of boron has been seen in humans including dermatitis, alopecia, anorexia and indigestion with doses between 1 gram and 25 grams per day, but not with doses of 1 gram per day or less. Boron toxicity is not known to occur with food intake.
Common Highest Boron Containing Foods:
These include coffee, milk, apples, dried beans, potatoes, avocado, peanut butter, peanuts, prune juice, grape juice, chocolate, wine, pecans, granola, raisins, and raisin bran cereals.
Assessment and Plan: Boron:
- According to the Institute of Medicine, Food and Nutrition Board, there is no biologic function for boron determined in humans, but the upper limit of boron intake is 0.32 mg per kilogram of bodyweight per day.
- Boron adverse effects: Adverse effects of boron supplements have been seen in humans including dermatitis, alopecia, anorexia and indigestion with doses between 1 gram and 25 grams per day, but not with doses of 1 gram per day or less. Boron toxicity is not known to occur with food intake.
References:
- Nutritive Value of Foods, United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Home and Garden Bulletin Number 72. May be accessed at: http://www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/foodcomp/Data/HG72/hg72_2002.pdf