The Benefits of Selenium Include Helping Prevent Various Types of Cancer

The benefits of selenium, an essential trace mineral, are numerous, but the most significant by far is its ability to help the body ward off various forms of cancer. Working in conjunction with vitamin E, it helps rid the body of harmful free radicals and boosts the function of the immune system, enabling the body to fight off illness. As such, it is considered one of the most important agents for extending life and improving health.

The medical profession can provide many facts about selenium, all of which point to its vital role in maintaining a healthy body. Selenium actually helps free the body from oxidants in two ways, both by being incorporated into oxidant-fighting enzymes and by helping the body to produce its own natural antioxidant, called glutathione. Though selenium levels can usually be maintained through a balanced, healthy diet, selenium deficiency can be a problem for some individuals.

Among the many benefits of selenium, it has been linked to fighting colorectal, lung and prostate cancer as well as slowing tumor growth. Selenium can also help to prevent heart disease as it regulates LDL cholesterol levels and promotes good arterial function. The antioxidant effects of selenium can help protect from ailments such as rheumatoid arthritis and immune disorders such as HIV and AIDS.

Though there is a recommended daily allowance of selenium, it is not applicable to every individual. Many facts about selenium are known, but the exact amount needed by each individual will vary from case to case. Generally, pregnant and nursing women will need slightly more selenium than most, as dietary stores tend to be depleted quicker as mother and child share nutrients. Selenium deficiency should not be a problem, however, as selenium can be found in many foods and supplements can also be used to maintain a proper level.

Selenium is found in organ meats, seafood, chicken, dairy products and lean meats. It can also be found in whole grains, broccoli, garlic, onions, molasses and many herbs. By far the greatest source of selenium is the Brazil nut.

Though the benefits of selenium can be attained through many foods, most diets will fall short of the recommended daily intake of selenium, therefore most individuals will need to consider taking a complex mineral supplement in order to ensure that they are getting the proper amount.

While doctors are still learning many facts about selenium, what is known is very encouraging. Beyond the cancer-fighting and immuno-boosting benefits of selenium, it has also been found to mimic the action of insulin. Since it stimulates glucose uptake and regulates the metabolic processes connected with glucose production, it can actually help to slow some of the secondary complications of diabetes, including the development of glaucoma and cataracts.

The benefits of selenium are almost endless. It has been shown to fight off illness, improve circulation, and even reduce the severity of epileptic seizures in children. Some individuals may have difficulty absorbing selenium, particularly anyone suffering from chronic gastric disorders such as Crohn’s Disease or Irritable Bowel Syndrome. These individuals in particular will need to take a complex supplement containing selenium to help bolster the amount they get in their daily diet.

While doctors search for a cure for cancer, we can help gear ourselves up to fight against it and many other illnesses by maintaining the proper level of selenium. A healthy, balanced diet and a complex mineral supplement containing selenium can go a long way toward helping us to look better and live longer. Consult your doctor today and find out which supplement works best for you.

Find out more about the benefits of selenium

If you are interested in learning more about minerals in general or would like to find out about one of the most powerful natural mineral supplements on the market, please feel free to contact me on the following page.

Selenium and other natural minerals are the key to vibrant health...discover what they can do for you today!

return to the Your Optimal Health home page