Selenium

STRENGTH: 100 mcg
FORM: 100 tablets

Selenium is a micronutrient/mineral, or what is more commonly referred to as a trace mineral. It is typically found in the soil, and is theoretically absorbed into a plant as it grows, which eventually benefits us as we eat these plants. It’s found in higher amounts in certain areas around the globe than others, but if the soils that vegatables are grown in are depleted, the plant will be depleted. So that means that the amount found in foods can vary greatly. It is for the most part classified as an antioxidant and is equated in its action to vitamin E. Selenium is incorporated into proteins to make what are known as selenoproteins, which are part of antioxidant enzymes. This antioxidant property helps to prevent cellular damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are natural by-products of oxygen/food metabolism that can contribute heavily to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

Full blown deficiencies of selenium are fairly rare in the United States, but they are seen in other third world countries like China, where the soil concentration of selenium is notably low. What is prevalent and more typically found in our ‘modern society’ is what are known as ‘subclinical’ deficiencies. These are diseases where symptoms can be caused by low levels in the blood e.g. digestive disorders, but to date have not been directly linked to the deficit. There is also evidence that selenium deficiency does not usually cause illness by itself. Rather, it can make the body more susceptible to illnesses caused by other nutritional stresses.

A few of the more serious diseases that are associated with selenium deficiency include:
1. Keshan Disease, which results in an enlarged heart and poor heart function, occurs in selenium deficient children.
2. Myxedematous Endemic Cretinism, which results in mental retardation.
3. Kashin-Beck Disease, which results in bone disorders.

As stated, selenium depletion or deficiency can lead to, and be associated with severe gastrointestinal problems such as Crohn's disease and other gastrointestinal disorders. What happens is that it ends up being a chicken and egg situation, first there may be a deficit that causes the problem. And then it becomes worse because the body begins to loose the ability to absorb nutrients because of the damage the deficit causes. Those with acute severe illness’s who develop inflammation and widespread infection often have decreased levels of selenium in their blood. Unfortunately not many doctors have made the connection between the deficiency and the pathologies that manifest because of the lack of this nutrient.

Another benefit from having enough selenium in the system is that it can also help to regenerate of the liver after it has been damaged. In a lesser known application, it can help in the prevention and treatment of dandruff! And it has been known to neutralize some carcinogens and can provide protection from some types of pathologies that are affected by these precancerous conditions.

Recommended Daily Allowances for Selenium:
Men - 70 mcg
Women - 55 mcg
Children - 20 - 30 mcg

Selenium is classified as an essential trace mineral in the human body. This nutrient has gained a tremendous amount of recognition over the past ten years, with many studies being performed that show its efficacy. Selenium is also essential for normal functioning of the thyroid gland, which has far reaching ramifications for those who are trying to loose weight. They get caught up in the viscous cycle of binging on junk food that is totally devoid of any real nutrient content, that even further robes their bodies of nutrients like selenium that help to maintain their health and well being.

Almost all main stream medical intervention is about treating the symptoms, and not the cause of a disease. Many times in the field of medicine the answer is right in front of us, but we can’t see it, taking selenium to supplement your diet may fend off any possible lack of this nutrient that may be occurring and causing you to feel less than at your peak! †

REFERENCES:

1. Arthur JR. The role of selenium in thyroid hormone metabolism. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 1991;69:1648-52.
2. Combs GF, Jr and Gray WP. Chemopreventive agents: Selenium. Pharmacol Ther 1998; 79:179-92.
3. Gramm HJ, Kopf A, Bratter P. The necessity of selenium substitution in total parenteral nutrition and artificial alimentation. J Trace Elem Med Biol 1995;9:1-12.
4. Rannem T, Ladefoged K, Hylander E, Hegnhoj J, Staun M. Selenium depletion in patients with gastrointestinal diseases: Are there any predictive factors? Scand J Gastroenterol 1998;33:1057-61.