Posted on June 16, 2009 in Latest News
Selenium is an important trace mineral found in our body; it is vital for carrying out various functions. In fact, it was proposed by Dr. Joel Walach (nominated for Nobel Prize) that deficiency of selenium can lead to cystic fibrosis in animals and humans. Subsequent research has also indicated that selenium can play a vital role in protecting our body from a variety of disorders.
Benefits of Selenium
Listed below are some of the health benefits of Selenium:
- Selenium for Fighting Cancer: It is suggested that the antioxidant property (due to glutathione peroxidase; GP) of selenium can prevent free radical damage caused to the cells. Selenium is also considered to repair DNA damage and play an important role in cellular replication. These might prevent prostrate cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, cancer of the cervix, ovaries, rectum, etc.
- Selenium for Cardiovascular Health: Experts believe that selenium can prevent aggregation of platelets (stickiness of blood) within the blood vessels specially when taken with vitamin E. This might promote blood flow and lower the level of harmful cholesterol (LDL), thereby mitigating the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure etc.
- Selenium to Strengthen the Immune System: It is believed that by increasing the number of white blood cells in the body, selenium can improve our body’s ability to combat against infections and diseases. This can help in fighting flu, pneumonia, etc.
- Selenium to Treat Male Infertility: It is considered that selenium along with other important antioxidants can help to produce certain proteins found in sperm. This may improve male fertility.
Dietary Sources of Selenium
Some selenium rich foods are: walnuts, brazil nuts, soybeans, wheat, corn, oats, beef, chicken, tuna, etc.
Selenium Side Effects
Daily recommended allowance is 70 mcg for an adult men and 55 mcg for an adult women. Excess consumption of selenium can lead to various side effects – nausea, vomiting, depression, hair loss, loss of finger nails, etc. If one is on selenium supplement, it is recommended not to 600 mcg per day.
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