Human Nutritional Benefits of Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a fine sedimentary rock with many applications. Food-grade diatomaceous earth has received a lot of attention for its purported health benefits. Although the material is generally nontoxic to humans, no scientific studies have been performed to support its safety or benefits.

Description

• Diatomaceous earth, or diatomite, is composed of the fossilized skeletons of diatoms, a microscopic algae. It is usually white or light gray in color and is fine-grained and porous.

Uses

• Diatomaceous earth is used primarily as a filtration aid, but it also has a variety of other purposes, including as an insulation material, a pet litter, a filler in certain products and an abrasive used in polishes.

Safety

• The International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS) states that diatomaceous earth can cause problems and irritation when inhaled or exposed to skin or eyes. Long-term exposure may cause fibrosis. Diatomaceous earth can contain detectable amounts of crystalline silica, a probable carcinogen.

FDA Approval

• Diatomaceous earth is generally regarded as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)--but only as a filter aid in food production. The "food grade" label on some types of diatomaceous earth refers to this use.

Scientific Evidence

• There is no available scientific evidence that supports the health claims about diatomaceous earth. Dr. Risk Rasby, professor of Animal Science at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, states that although diatomaceous earth is known to kill insects, its effect on intestinal parasites in animals has not yet been reported.