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Diet
& Nutrition Selenium
What
is Selenium ?
The importance of Selenium was only discovered in 1973 when it was found
to be an integral part of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase and is a very
potent antioxidant protecting the body from damage due to oxidation by
free radicals. It is a trace element or micronutrient as the amount needed
for human health is measured in micrograms (millionths of a gram). In
excess, it can be toxic.
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Function
- Works with vitamin
E and other antioxidants to protect cells from damage caused by
oxidation by free radicals.
- Helps synthesize antibodies
- Helps synthesize co-enzyme Q10
- Helps transport ions across
cell membranes
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Signs
of deficiency
- Heart disease (Keshan Disease) in
cases of gross deficiency
- Osteoarthritis (Kashin-Beck
disease) in cases of gross deficiency
- Weakened immune system
- Increased risk of some cancers,
heart disease, ageing and other illnesses associated with a weakened
immune system
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Best
sources
- Brazil nuts
- Wheatgerm
- Molasses
- Sunflower seeds
- Wholewheat bread
- Dairy foods
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Notes
The Selenium content of foods is related to the Selenium content in the
soil in which the foods are grown. Some countries have been shown to
contain soil which has become severely deficient in selenium - these
include China, Finland, New Zealand, some areas in the United States as
well as central and eastern Canada, and some part sof Europe. In these
areas it is therefore advisable to take a nutritonal supplement containing
60-70 mcg of selenium.
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This page was last updated on 25 October 2006 15:44:39
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