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Aliness Selenium Select® L-selenomethionine 200 mcg - 100 Tablets
€7.19Unit price /UnavailableLife Extension
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Aura Herbals Seledrop - Selenium 110 mcg sodium (IV) selenate, aerosol - 30 ml
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Selenium, an elemental component of utmost importance, requires daily inclusion in one's diet. Despite its minute dosage, this element assumes an indispensable function in several bodily processes. Its worth lies in its antioxidant attributes, thyroid metabolism assistance, and possible prevention of cardiovascular ailments. What other pertinent details are there to learn about selenium?
Selenium - importance of the element
Selenium is a micronutrient whose significance in preserving well-being is becoming increasingly apparent through numerous studies. The element is vital in the prevention and management of several diseases. Though the body stores selenium in muscle tissue, the thyroid gland houses the highest concentration. However, the body's requirement for the element far surpasses the minuscule quantity stored in the body.
The thyroid gland's function is severely hindered in the absence of selenium. The element is a crucial component in the creation and metabolism of thyroid hormones, which impact all cells that depend on them. Therefore, a dearth of selenium has a profound effect on thyroid function, with prolonged deficiency resulting in an adverse impact on health and wellness. Empirical studies have revealed that diminished selenium levels in the bloodstream are associated with an increased susceptibility to autoimmune inflammation and hypothyroidism.
Selenium - what does it help?
Selenium is a relatively unacknowledged antioxidant that efficiently mitigates the oxidative stress linked with several persistent maladies. The element neutralizes surplus free radicals, bolstering the body's routine operations. It boosts the immune system and fortifies the immune response, affording protection against infections. Inadequate selenium levels lead to quantitative and functional dysfunctions of T lymphocytes and other immune cells.
An intake replete with selenium can reduce inflammatory markers, one of the chief risk factors of heart disease, while simultaneously enhancing cognitive function, particularly in the elderly.
It is worth noting that the element can impact male fertility - it participates in sperm maturation and sperm production, remarkably enhancing the ejaculate's quality.
Selenium + zinc
Selenium and zinc are two micronutrients that play an important role in reducing oxidative stress by protecting DNA from reactive oxygen species - preventing damage to healthy cells. Although selenium and zinc when used separately have their own specific functions, they share a synergy of action resulting from the combination.
Research shows that the elements can interact, enabling interchangeable antioxidant activity. The selenium + zinc supplementation model is often used in medicine (especially for cancer).
Selenium deficiency
Unfortunately, micronutrient deficiencies are quite common among the general population, and may be even more common in people affected by various dysfunctions.
Selenium deficiency results in chronic fatigue, mood deterioration and nervousness, and in extreme cases even depressive states. Scientists believe that the element's effect on the psyche is related to its antioxidant properties, although the exact mechanism of action is still under investigation.
Selenium deficiency can also increase the risk of many other serious complications, these include:
- cardiovascular diseases
- abnormal functioning of the thyroid gland
- recurrent infections
- infertility
Selenium - where does it occur?
Selenium occurs naturally in water and soil and is therefore present in food products. However, it is difficult to estimate the amount of the element, because it depends on the location and soil conditions, which can be very different. Nevertheless, the following are considered good sources of selenium:
- nuts and seeds (sunflower, Brazil and walnuts)
- oysters
- fish (halibut, tuna, sardines, cod, herring)
- eggs
- chicken meat
- offal (especially kidney)
Selenium supplied with food is absorbed in 55% - 60%. Unfortunately, the element is fragile and easily degraded during processing.
Selenium - how to take it?
To optimize the advantages of selenium supplementation, it is recommended to consume it in the morning, especially on an empty stomach, as it will drastically increase the absorption of the element. This is due to the fact that there are several other vitamins, minerals, and nutrients (such as fibre and vitamin C) which have an unfavorable interaction with selenium and hinder the absorption of the element. However, it is important to note that vitamin E is an exception, as it enhances the bioavailability of selenium and thus makes it more effective.
It is important to adhere to the recommended dosage provided by the manufacturer or the instructions given by your doctor. Although selenium is necessary for the proper functioning of the body and a deficiency can lead to many adverse effects, an excess amount is not beneficial either.