Selenium
What Are The Benefits?
Necessary for proper immune system function, selenium helps rid the body of free radicals (with the aid of vitamin E) and may even reduce your risk of developing certain cancers, including prostate, colon and lung cancers, as well as reducing your risk for rheumatoid arthritis and guarding against cardiovascular disease. This essential trace mineral is responsible for the body’s production of at least 25 different amino acids called selenoproteins. They may also help ease the symptoms of certain digestive disorders, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, according to Natural Health Magazine. Selenium helps the body defend itself against bacterial and viral infections, and selenium has been shown to help with easing headaches, depression symptoms, nausea and vertigo. It may even help slow the progression of HIV.
Where Is It Found?
Selenium is found in meat and eggs, oats and wheat germ, as well as whole-wheat products, and nuts. The best way to get this important trace mineral is through eating whole, unprocessed, unrefined foods. But because commercial farming tends to deplete the selenium levels in the soil, many people are not getting enough selenium from their everyday diets, and multivitamins and multivitamins may not provide you with correct amounts for your daily needs.
What’s the Dosage?
Experts recommend taking a supplement with 200 micrograms daily, and encourage users to also take vitamin E for best results. You should avoid taking a vitamin C supplement at the same time as a selenium supplement, because vitamin C interferes with the body’s ability to absorb selenium. If you’re taking both supplements, take them at different times of day. Warning: high doses of selenium taken over time may lead to a number of health problems, including nausea/vomiting, depression, and anxiety.