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Silicon, drinking water and Alzheimer’s disease: the state of knowledge
Report author: Fourage · Report written in January 2026 · Article published on 20 October 2026
What epidemiological studies, including the French PAQUID cohort, show, and what occupational health should take from them.
A literature review written in January 2026 by a member of the association examines the hypothesis that silicon in drinking water may protect against Alzheimer’s disease.
Epidemiological studies
The French PAQUID cohort, followed in Gironde and Dordogne, studied exposure to aluminium and silica through drinking water. Some results suggest that water richer in silica may be associated with a lower risk, by limiting aluminium absorption. Health authorities remain cautious: a causal link has not been established.
Not to be confused with inhaled silica
For occupational health the distinction is essential: silica dissolved in water has nothing to do with the crystalline silica dust inhaled on building sites and in quarries, which causes silicosis and is classified as a carcinogen. Directive (EU) 2017/2398 brought it within EU rules on carcinogens.
French and Spanish mineral waters
The report compares the silica content of several mineral waters sold in France and Spain, as stated on their labels.
- A protective effect of silica in water: not proven.
- Inhaled crystalline silica, by contrast, is a recognised occupational hazard.
- This article is not medical advice.
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Official sources
Each article is based on a report whose date of writing is shown, and reflects its author’s analysis at that date. General information only: neither legal nor medical advice. The full report can be requested from the association.
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