The Key Health Benefits of Selenium

Photo by: Bigstockphoto
Photo by: Bigstockphoto

Selenium is a compound found in every cell in the body. It’s especially abundant in the pancreas, spleen, and liver. Although it’s an essential mineral, the body only need small amount of it. When combined with protein, selenium becomes selenoproteins.

Selenoproteins are antioxidants that protect the organs from free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that destroy healthy cells. It’s believed to be the precursor to cell mutation. Apart from protecting the body from oxidative stress, selenium also helps normalize hormone production. It also maintains healthy thyroid function. If you don’t get enough of this mineral, you will suffer from chronic fatigue and muscle weakness. Long term selenium deficiency will lead to various heart problems and even hypothyroidism.

The Many Benefits of Selenium

Ease Asthma Symptoms

If you’ve suffered from asthma all your life, this is great news! Eating foods rich in selenium helps cut the symptoms associated with asthma. The mineral helps prevent shortness of breath, strengthens weak lungs and prevent chest tightness. Selenium also prevents the progression of asthma into more serious respiratory problems.

Eliminate Dandruff

Dandruff is caused by dry, itchy scalp. Consuming selenium-rich foods keeps the scalp hydrated, prevent unsightly flakes and itchiness. Taking selenium supplements also helps keeps the scalp and hair healthy!

Normalizes Blood Pressure

Clinical tests reveal that selenium plays an important role in maintaining normal blood pressure. It’s a heart-friendly compound that prevent various cardiovascular diseases. Take selenium supplements and exercise regularly to keep the heart and lungs strong. Also, compounds in selenium thin out the blood, cutting the risk of blood clots.

Strengthens The Immune System

Selenium boosts the strength of the immune system! It helps prevent viral infection and promotes proper liver function. Selenium also protects from common colds, cough, and flu. Even better, this mineral also protects from certain cancers. Selenium’s potency is enhanced when taken with Vitamin C and E!

Relieves Psoriasis and Eczema

While it can’t cure Psoriasis and Eczema, it can ease the symptoms. Selenium cuts inflammation, redness, and itchiness. It also keeps the skin healthy by keeping the irritation down. Used together with vitamin E, selenium will invigorate lackluster, hypersensitive skin.

The Right Amount is Critical

To maximize the health benefits of selenium, take at least 200 micrograms (mcg) of selenium on a daily basis. Boost your selenium intake by eating egg yolks, mushrooms, kidney beans and poultry. Veggies like asparagus, tomatoes, and whole grains are also rich in this mineral. If you can’t meet your daily dietary allowance of selenium, take supplements instead.

A male adult should take 70 mcg of selenium supplements per day. Women should only take 55 mcg. Always track your selenium intake. Excessive consumption isn’t recommended. In fact, it might cause serious health complications. Some studies suggest that too much selenium increases the risk of non-melanoma skin cancer. If you are susceptible to cancer, do not take selenium supplements.

Selenium poisoning could also lead to respiratory problems and pulmonary edema. In severe cases, selenium poisoning leads to brain and tissue damage. So, always make sure your selenium intake is on the healthy range.