Selenium – A Trace Element Antioxidant
Selenium is a trace element required by the body to synthesize the potent protective antioxidant enzyme Glutathione, which by itself protects cells from cancer, toxic chemicals, heavy metals, radiation and other free radical damage.
TCM, the study of Traditional Chinese Medicine, believes that we are all deficient in it. It works in unison with Vitamin E also, which in turn helps Selenium and Glutathione work more effectively. It is also necessary for good immune function.
In one study, researchers looked at dietary intakes among the people of China, living in different regions. They found that there was a very strong connection between low levels and increased cancer levels. Other studies have shown that people with low blood levels of Selenium and Vitamin E are significantly more likely to develop Cancer. In previous days, crops in fields were rotated. When fields were not growing crops, other crops called 'cover crops' were planted. These crops helps to restore nutrients and nitrogen levels to the soil that are essential for the growth and nutritional value of foods grown there. Selenium however, has been leached from our soil by vast amounts of pesticides and chemical fertilizers used by our farmers. Two thirds of the arable land around the world is devoid of it, so food grown in such soil is absent from this trace element. It protects us against viral infections, pollutions, and Cancer. It also helps detoxify our bodies against smoke, pollution, drugs, (of any kind which includes prescription!), and frequent alcohol use. It also helps regulate normal thyroid function and plays a role in our immunity. Your body need only traces of this mineral a day. An adult daily dose of 200 - 400 mcg, (micrograms), is all you'll need. Some of the sources disagree over where the deficiencies are greatest. Some of them claim that one of the most deficient regions in the world is the Great Lakes area, naming Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan and Ohio. Another source suggests that the deficiencies are greatest in the Carolina’s and Georgia belt states. However, they do agree that the soils in the high plains of northern Nebraska and the Dakotas have very high levels of this trace element. People living in those regions generally have the highest selenium intakes and the best health in the United States. However, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine, everyone is deficient. That's why it should be an essential part of daily vitamin intake. It really is important. Foods that are high in this trace element include Seafood, Meats, Grains, and especially Brazil nuts. And another perk is that its is cheap to buy! So start taking this trace element today! You only need trace amounts of this trace element, so 200 mcg. is a good place to start! Everyone needs this supplement in their diets! It is important to note however, that Selenium in high amounts can be quite toxic, so be sure not to exceed the daily recommended allowance. This is why we only need trace amounts of it. *For that reason, please do not exceed the recommended 200 - 400 mcg. daily! Recommended Amounts by Age 0 - 6 mths. - 45mcg. Related Products
 Didn't find what you were looking for? Use your keywords and this handy tool to find it fast! To go to the next Vitamin Supplement page, here's the link:
The Powerful Antioxidant Glutathione
Back to Top of Page
Anti Aging Vitamin Supplements Page
Go from Selenium Back to Hompage
|
