Selenium Supplements: Antioxidants
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The human body needs Selenium, a mineral, in very small quantities for optimal health. Generally, we acquire Selenium through our diet of plant and animal foods. The amount of Selenium that we ingest is directly related to the amount of Selenium in the soil where the plants are grown or the animals are raised.
Plants derive their Selenium level from the soil in which they are grown, just as they acquire other nutrients and minerals from the soil. Likewise, animals derive their Selenium content from the plants that they consume. Hence, a direct correlation exists between Selenium levels in food sources and in human beings.
Most people in the United States never develop a deficiency in Selenium. The pattern of food distribution in the United States is so widespread, that people who live in areas where soil contains low levels of Selenium never have to worry about not getting enough Selenium. However, other parts of the world that grow their own food supply in Selenium deficient soil may experiences some incidence of Selenium deficiency in the human population.
Some studies have shown that a deficiency in Selenium may harm individuals indirectly rather than directly. Specifically, a lack of Selenium may provide the conditions necessary for other opportunistic diseases to descend upon the human body. Diseases with a root cause of nutritional, biochemical, or infectious factors may find a haven in a body that is low in Selenium levels.
Research has also shown that Selenium levels drop in individuals who have gastrointestinal diseases. Such disorders disrupt absorption of Selenium obtained through diet. In addition, these gastrointestinal disorders also disrupt the absorption of other nutrients, further putting the individual at risk. The need for Selenium supplementation in people with such a disorder is often assessed.
In addition, the need to be assessed for Selenium supplementation in patients with low iodine levels has become routine. The thyroid is affected by iodine deficiency and the results of this may be worsened with a Selenium deficiency.
Research has indicated, but not proven, that higher levels of Selenium lead to a lower incidence of certain cancers. Selenium is an antioxidant and as such fights free radicals. Higher levels of Selenium might also be responsible for slower tumor growth. A possible link to relief of arthritis symptoms is being explored.
Too much Selenium, although the incidence of this is rare, may result in Selenosis. Selenosis is a condition that may result in hair loss, gastrointestinal disorders, fatigue, bad nails, or nerve disorders.
Selenium supplements are available as part of a vitamin regimen. A tablet Selenium supplement is also available. By prescription only and with medical supervision, a liquid form of Selenic acid is available.
Although the research is still in the investigative stages, supplementation with Selenium offers little risk. The benefits are yet to be fully discovered, but the promise of better health exists. Selenium supplements might be the answer you are looking to find.
