Health Benefits of Selenium

Selenium is a trace mineral essential to human. Selenium is an active component of glutathione peroxidase, an enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of hydroperoxides.

Selenium can also help against the toxicity from mercury, cadmium and silver. Some studies suggest that selenium may reduce the incidence of cancer and cataracts. It also function in thyroid hormone metabolism.

Neutralizes the injurious effects of free radicals. Excessive accumulation of free radical (which are by-products of metabolism) are injurious to the body promoting premature diseases. Some use selenium in combination with vitamin E, possibly due to their synergistic action since both are antioxidants.

Symptoms of Selenium Deficiency :

1. May cause cancer
2. Cataract and heart disease
3. Growth retardation
4. Muscle cramps
5. Heart enlargement
6. Abnormal nail beds

Selenium is toxic beginning at levels 20 to 30 times the required dosage.

Symptoms of Selenium Toxicity :

• Loss of hair, nails, teeth,
• Skin inflammation
• Fatigue
• Paralysis
• Death

Daily Requirement - 50 to 200 micrograms

Supplemental Dosage - 50 micrograms

Food Sources :

• Garlic, onion, tuna fish, herring, cereals, bread, bran, brewer's yeast, wheat germ, fermented foods, broccoli, mushroom, grape juice, cabbage, alfalfa, tomatoes, sea vegetables, molasses, beer, eggs, liver, kidney (contain high cholesterol).
• Shellfish (fair content of cholesterol, specifically oyster, mussels but rich in high density lipoprotein which prevent platelet clumping and stickiness.

Note : Trace minerals; use only under doctors guidance.