Benefits of Selenium

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By Ann Olson
eHow Contributing Writer

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Selenium provides important benefits for thyroidal and cellular health, increasing the body's ability to fight off infection and illness. It is also important to avoid selenium deficiency if you are at risk for heart disease. Incorporate selenium into your diet if you want to gain these benefits.

Immune System

Selenium aids in the production of antioxidants, which are essential for regulating immunity in the body. Selenium benefits people with poor immune systems, increasing the body's ability to fight off infections.

Thyroid Function

Another benefit of selenium is its ability to regular thyroid hormones. Thyroid enzymes depend on selenium to balance out metabolic levels, playing a key role in weight management.

Free Radical Damage

A big benefit of selenium is the reduction of free radical damage in cells. Selenium helps create antioxidants in the body, which protects cells from damage.

Heart Disease

Selenium deficiency causes heart problems, including an enlarged heart and heart disease. Many physicians recommend getting adequate amounts of selenium to combat heart disease.

Cancer

Selenium may benefit people at risk for cancer. Selenium produces natural antioxidants in the body, called selenoproteins, that prevent free radical damage in cells, one major cause of cancer.