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 synergist 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.
Our bodies need only traces of this mineral a day. An adult daily dose of 200 - 400 mcg, (micrograms), is all you'll need. One of my sources believes 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 it’s the Carolina’s and Georgia belt states. Researchers have said that soils in the high plains of northern Nebraska and the Dakotas have very high levels. People living in those regions generally have the highest selenium intakes in the United States. However, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine, everyone is deficient. I believe that it should be an essential part of daily vitamin intake. Personally, I have taken it for years. Foods that are high in this trace element include Seafood, Meats, Grains, and especially Brazil nuts. And another perk is that its is CHEAP! 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 but it can be toxic in large quantities. 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. To go to the next Vitamin Supplement page, here's the link: The Powerful Antioxidant Glutathione To view the previous Vitamin Supplement page, here's the link: Essential Vitamin C Antioxidant
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