Anticancer Potential
Selenium has been found to be rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. It is an essential part of various cellular processes, and this includes the body’s response to cancerous activity. A study published in Biology and Human Health has shown that normal intake of this mineral might result in a decrease of cancerous cell formation, especially in regard to prostate, colorectal, and lung cancers. A study in the Nutrients journal, showed that in addition to its potential as a cancer preventative agent, selenium may also prove to be an anti-metastatic element, thus aiding in the later stages of cancer progression.
Boosts Immunity
Studies have shown that selenium is important in the stimulation of antibodies, which are elements of the immune system that seek out and destroy viral, bacterial, fungal, and protozoan foreign bodies that result in diseases and infections. It is said to help stimulate these antibodies, particularly after you receive a vaccination for one of these diseases, making your body resilient and experienced in fighting them off so you remain healthy and protected throughout your life.
Relieves Inflammation
Apart from boosting your immune system, this mineral also protects your body from wearing down and feeling older than it really is. A study in Hormone and Metabolic Research throws light on its potential anti-inflammatory properties. Selenium has been shown to reduce oxidative stress that often occurs around joints and bones, manifesting into the various inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriasis, lupus, eczema associated pain, and weakness. By reducing the inflammation at these vital hinges of your body, you can remain active, healthy, and pain-free for many years.
Helps Improve Thyroid Health
According to a 2017 study, the presence of selenium per gram of tissue in the thyroid gland is higher as compared to all organs in the body. It supports the metabolism in thyroid hormones and therefore maintaining optimal levels of selenium may help to ensure smooth functioning of the thyroid and preventing any thyroid diseases.
Relieves Asthma Symptoms
A selenium deficiency is considered one of the reasons for asthma, which is why supplementation can be used as a remedy to relieve this respiratory condition. (See supplement suggestion at end of article)
Enhances Fertility
Selenium is linked with promoting sperm motility and increasing the blood flow in the body. Research suggests that it could play a role in enhancing sperm health and male fertility.
Antioxidant Properties
The antioxidant potential of selenium has been observed to be vital for protecting overall health, as the free radicals in the body can affect you several ways. Free radicals can weaken or kill cells in every organ system, can result in heart diseases, kidney malfunction, digestive issues, metabolic syndrome, hormonal imbalance, and premature aging. The antioxidant properties of selenium could prove beneficial in protecting against oxidative stress and keep such health issues at bay.
Improves Mental Health & Mood
Cognitive decline has been associated with free radical activity in the neural cortex, destroying pathways and inhibiting the proper functioning of nerve impulses. As per studies, selenium can help prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s and improve mental health and overall mood by neutralizing free radicals before they can affect you.
Top Foods High In Selenium
The best sources of selenium intake for humans are mainly plants and animals, including the following:
Vegetarian sources: Brazil nuts are the richest source of this mineral discovered so far, mainly because the nut requires no selenium for its own function, but stores large quantities that can be absorbed and utilized by those who eat the nut. Other plant-based sources are spinach, mushrooms, sunflower seeds, and chia seeds. Other good sources are foods made from grains grown in selenium-rich soils, such as cereals, brown rice, white bread, and pasta.
Fish: Ocean fish and seafood are among the richest sources. These include halibut, tuna, crabs, rockfish, herring, and lobsters.
Animal products: These include animal kidneys, selenium-rich grass-fed beef, chicken breast, turkey, and eggs.
Supplemental selenium varies in absorption and quality. Emerald Labs HashiMune is my choice due to the SelenoExcell used which is considered superior by many supplement professionals.
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