Selenium is a mineral that naturally occurs in soil. And a small amount is an essential nutrient for good health.
A major benefit of selenium is it helps make a special antioxidant enzyme protein, which plays a vital role in preventing cell damage. Some studies suggest this benefit may translate to preventing certain cancers. But, more studies are necessary.
Some preliminary studies indicate that selenium mineral may be beneficial when suffering from numerous health conditions as well. Here’s a sampling of some health conditions that might benefit from selenium:
- sepsis
- dandruff
- psoriasis
- pancreatitis
- treat eczema
- cystic fibrosis
- cardiomyopathy
- chronic hemolysis
- rheumatoid arthritis
- cardiovascular disease
- improve asthma symptoms
- stimulate antibodies after vaccination
- increase the rate of burn wound healing
- liver issues ~ hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver cancer
- glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency
- yeast infections ~ tinea capitis & tinea versicolor
- prevent infections by stimulating immune function
- boost fertility ~ improve sperm production & movement
- heavy metals, other harmful substance poisonous effects
- promote bronchitis & pneumonia recovery caused by respiratory syncytial virus
- reduce risk of gastrointestinal, gynecological (ovarian, uterine, cervical), lung, colorectal, esophageal, prostate cancers
Selenium supplementation may result in a longer life because antioxidants are believed to slow aging and prevent disease. Yet, further studies need to be conducted to confirm any of these benefits.
The main dietary sources of selenium are edible plants. How much depends on the concentration of the mineral in the soil where they’re grown. Other sources include:
Selenium deficiency is rare in the U.S. However, selenium deficiency may occur as a result of severe gastrointestinal disorders or nutritional support via IV for a long time.
Keshan disease is caused by a deficiency of selenium, which leads to an abnormality of the heart muscle. Other diseases linked to selenium deficiency are:
- myxedematous endemic cretinism ~ causes mental retardation
- Kashin-Beck disease ~ causes joint & bone disease symptoms
Selenosis is a health condition resulting from too much. Selenium toxicity can cause symptoms of:
- fatigue
- nausea
- flushing
- hair loss
- irritability
- metallic taste
- mild neuralgia
- nail abnormality
The best system to avoid toxicity symptoms is by consuming a nutritious diet consisting of a variety of foods
Selenium is available in multivitamin and mineral supplements. But don’t take more than the recommended. Or you may end up toxic.