Absorption and Dosage

The recommended dosing protocol starts at 1 teaspoon per day mixed in water for the first three days, then increases to 2 teaspoons per day. Diatomaceous earth must be taken on an empty stomach because strong stomach acid is required to extract and absorb the silica. Betaine HCl tablets taken alongside diatomaceous earth convert silica into orthosolicic acid, a more bioavailable form the body can absorb efficiently. Adding apple cider vinegar to the glass of water with diatomaceous earth increases acidity and improves silica absorption. Many people have low or insufficient stomach acid (hypochlorhydria), which limits how much silica they can extract from diatomaceous earth.