Benefits of Selenium
The primary benefits of selenium are preventing cancer and heart disease.
Selenium protects by blocking the formation of free radicals and tumors. One study found that men who took 200 mg of selenium every day for 10 years had half the risk of developing lung, prostate, and colon cancer. In the case of heart disease, selenium makes blood less sticky, which decreases the risk of clotting. It also helps raise good (HDL) cholestrol and lower bad (LDL) cholesterol. All this is critical for heart health. Selenium is also an antioxidant and is especially effective when coupled with vitamin E. Together they work to keep skin looking young. People with selenium deficiency may experience exhaustion, high cholesterol, infections, liver impairment, or sterility.
Good Food Source of Selenium
The purest concentrated source of selenium is in Brazil nuts. You can also get a good shot of selenium by eating:
- snapper
- halibut
- cod
- tuna
- shrimp
Yum, seafood.
Selenium Daily Requirements
The average person’s diet supplies enough selenium, however many naturopaths recommend taking 100-200 mg of supplemental selenium daily. Sexually active men are encouraged to take up to 400 mg. When looking for a supplement, make sure it contains selenomethionine which is selenium in its organic form. Also, make sure that it is chelated; the body absorbs chelated minerals easier. If you take prescription medicine or over-the-counter drugs, be aware that nutrients and pharmaceuticals can interact negatively. Consult your doctor. Pregnant and nursing women should also be cautious.
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