Health Benefits of Selenium
Studies show that the health benefits of selenium can result in reduced risk of cancer and decreased death rate from cancer. Recent research has shown that this trace mineral is an important anti oxidant that can also help our immune system against bacteria and viruses as well and may well prevent other immune system defects.
A study published in 1996 in the Journal Of The American Medical Association cited the benefits of selenium in the fight against cancer. According to the study, selenium supplements, cut some cancer rates by 40% and the death rate for people who already had cancer by 50%.
Why You may Not Be Getting Enough
The health benefits of selenium come from the mineral which can be found predominantly in nuts and vegetables but can also be found in chicken, egg yolks, seafood, and milk. Unfortunately, over farming has stripped the land of most trace minerals, including selenium and since the foods we eat contain selenium due to it's presence in the soil, there may be a big gap in our nutritional intake.
How Much Do You Need>
The RDA for selenium is 55 MCG per day for adults but this is the lowest minimum requirement and studies show that you may be able to reap more benefits of selenium by taking up to 400 mcg per day without and adverse effects. In fact, a multi year study showed that people given 200 mcg of selenium a day had 50% less deaths than those given a placebo. Anyone who has a severe gastrointestinal disorder or has had some of their intestines removed may not be able to absorb as much selenium and may need to take more.
If course, you will want to check with your physician before over medicating.
Selenium Deficiency
Selenium deficiency can occur in places where the soil is depleted of selenium, for people who rely on an IV for nutrition as they cannot digest food and for those with severe gastrointestinal illness. It is believed that selenium deficiency can affect thyroid function and may cause poor hear function or an enlarged heart.
Selenium Overdose Side Effects
Selenium toxicity is rare and you should be able to enjoy the health benefits of selenium without worrying about side effects unless you are taking mega doses. Side effects include upset stomach, hair loss, white spots on your nails and minor nerve damage.
Of Interest
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