Selenium Supplements Benefits
You need selenium, a trace mineral, for good health. Most of us get the amount we need in our food. In some locations, however, where the soil is depleted of this mineral, there may not be enough in the food. Additionally, some medical conditions lead to depletion of selenium in your body. Because having too much selenium can be toxic, you should only add supplements on the advice of your doctor.
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Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory
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DietaryFiberFood.com claims that a major benefit of selenium is its antioxidant effect. This mineral promotes immunity and may help slow aging. It is also a component of many necessary enzymes. When combined with vitamin E, it has demonstrated anti-inflammatory benefits. Low levels may increase the chance of developing rheumatoid arthritis. However, once the arthritis has developed, supplements do not seem to help.
Cancer
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Because lung cancer is a top cause of death among former smokers, a University of Arizona study supports the use of selenium supplementation to reduce the risk of lung cancer. There have been several studies regarding skin and prostate cancer, although benefits are still questionable for these, unless individual blood tests show low levels. Many cancer patients do have low levels of selenium.
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Hypothyroidism
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The conversion of the thyroid hormone, thyroxin, requires some selenium. If your levels are low, you may benefit from supplements to normalize your levels. This may help the fatigue, mental slowness and goiter that occur with hypothyroidism.
Heart Disease
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Selenium decreases the risk of blood clotting. This, in turn, helps prevent heart attacks and strokes. It increases the ratio of HDL ("good" cholesterol) to LDL ("bad" cholesterol), helping heart health. Smokers often have lower levels and may benefit from a selenium supplement.
Diabetes
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Many diabetics show low levels of selenium and will benefit from supplements to bring their levels up to normal. Normal levels help stabilize blood sugar.
Keshan Disease
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Keshan disease, described as poor heart function and an enlarged heart in children with severe selenium deficiency, occurs mainly in areas of China with poor selenium soil. Keshan disease also occurs in a few places in Finland, New Zealand and the United States. Supplements for children in those areas prevent the occurrence of this condition.
AIDS
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The Antioxidant Guide reports that patients with AIDS often show a deficiency of selenium. They may benefit from enough supplements to bring their levels up to normal.
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