Selenium is a trace mineral that is essential for body function. It protects cells from oxidative stress and helps the thyroid gland produce hormones. Many vegetables and fruits are a source of selenium. Why is selenium so important to us?
Selenium deficiency causes diseases such as infertility, cardiovascular disease and Keshan disease.
Selenium is a powerful antioxidant
Antioxidants are substances that slow down cell damage by neutralizing free radicals. Selenium is the element that protects against free radicals and oxidative stress. It is an active immunomodulator and its effect is stronger than that of vitamins A, C and E.
Щthyroid gland
Like iodine, selenium plays an important role in the functioning of the thyroid gland. Studies have shown that selenium supplementation during pregnancy reduces the risk of hypothyroidism and inflammation. More research is needed to understand how selenium affects thyroid function.
Anti-aging properties of selenium
The action of free radicals causes cellular degeneration, which causes aging. As a powerful antioxidant, selenium neutralizes their harmful effects. One study found that selenium levels decline with age and are associated with cognitive impairment in older people. Let’s hope that selenium supplements can slow down age-related mental disorders.
Detoxification
Metals are the most powerful toxic substances. There are very few effective ways to remove metals from the body. But evidence suggests that selenium promotes the excretion of mercury in the urine.
Cardiovascular Support
There is a relationship between selenium concentration and cardiovascular disease. Patients who have experienced a heart attack. had low levels of selenium, and these facts have been recorded since 1937. Selenium binds with vitamin E and beta-carotene, maintaining normal blood cholesterol levels.
reproductive health
Selenium is extremely important for both male and female reproductive function. Selenium deficiency can lead to male infertility. Low selenium levels can also have a negative impact on female fertility and fetal growth. There is a link between a lack of selenium and the likelihood of a miscarriage.
Selenium and cancer
Some studies show that a lack of selenium contributes to the development of certain types of cancer. Despite this information, one should not think that selenium is a method of treating or preventing cancer. But you need to do everything possible to get it in sufficient quantities.