Selenium is a vital nutrient essential for human health. It helps the body to fight against inflammation and free radical damage, improves immunity, and plays an important role in maintaining a healthy metabolism. Natural selenium also has antiviral effects and lessens the risks associated with cancer, heart disease, and thyroid. In America, breads, nuts, and meats are the main sources of dietary selenium. Based on the findings of the National Center for Health Statistics and National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), more and more American citizens are relying on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). In the US, 38 percent of adults (that’s four out of 10 people) and about 12 percent of children are now switching to natural remedies to treat ailments. Florida, like some other states in the US, has now embraced natural medicine over traditional drugs. If you are in the Sunshine State, you will come across many wellness centers in Trinity and other nearby areas that practice natural medicine. Low selenium intake is also associated with conditions such as Keshan disease and infertility in men and women. Let us take a look at the six most important health benefits of this trace mineral:
- Improves Cardiovascular Health
There is a relation between selenium intake and heart health. A few patients with low intake of this mineral were reported to have heart attacks. Instances of cardiovascular disease due to selenium deficiency have been reported since 1937. It is not only beneficial for your heart, but also works with other nutrients like beta-carotene and Vitamin E to promote healthy cholesterol.
- Protects against Oxidative Stress
Selenium has great antioxidant properties, and helps to stop or delay cell damage by offsetting free radicals. It protects you against oxidative stress. It is a robust antioxidant, and more effective than Vitamin A, E or C. It is also a powerful immunomodulator, and works with other proteins like thioredoxin reductases and peroxidases, acting as antioxidants to ensure cell growth and development.
- Boosts Reproductive Health
Selenium is beneficial for the reproductive health of men and women. While it boosts sperm movement, a selenium deficiency may even result in male impotency. Studies also show that low selenium level in the body causes infertility in women and affects fetal development.
- Helps Thyroid Patients
The hormones generated by the thyroid gland affect your body’s metabolic processes and overall growth. With respect to other tissues found in the human body, the thyroid contains maximum selenium per gram. Just as iodine, selenium plays a crucial role in the synthesis of thyroid hormones. A study showed that taking selenium supplements during pregnancy minimized the effects of inflammation and hypothyroidism. Another study revealed that selenium supplements are beneficial in reducing the adverse effects of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
- Reduces the Risk of Prostate Cancer in Men
Selenium may help to reduce the risks associated with prostate cancer in men. Studies show that males who take a lesser amount of this trace mineral are more vulnerable to prostate cancer. The higher the selenium level, the lesser is the risk of developing the disease. Doctors and health experts recommend that one must get a daily dosage of this mineral in recommended quantity to prevent prostate cancer.
- Improves Immunity
When people want to boost their immunity, they normally try to improve Vitamin C and zinc levels in their body. Although these are essential nutrients to improve immunity, selenium also plays a crucial role in this respect. This mineral makes the white blood cells stronger to fight diseases and infections better. When you get enough of this nutrient, you will fall sick less frequently as your body would be better prepared to fight off disease-causing bacteria and viruses.
Selenium helps to protect you against many ailments. People in Florida who are selenium deficient may opt for natural medicine in Trinity and other nearby Florida locations. They may talk to one of the nutritionists to understand if selenium is suitable for their health. One may also consider natural food items like fresh vegetables, fruits or nuts rich in selenium.
