What is Selenium?

Selenium, a trace mineral and essential nutrient, often goes unnoticed in the realm of nutrition. However, this unsung hero plays a crucial role in maintaining our health and well-being. In this blog post, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of selenium, backed by scientific sources, to shed light on its significance in our diet and overall health.

Antioxidant Protection

Selenium is a key component of antioxidant enzymes like glutathione peroxidase, which help protect our cells from oxidative damage. This protection is crucial in reducing the risk of chronic diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and aging-related conditions.

Cancer Prevention

Research suggests that selenium may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. Selenium’s ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and repair damaged DNA has been a subject of numerous studies.

Thyroid Function

Selenium is vital for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. It helps convert the inactive thyroid hormone (T4) into the active form (T3), which is essential for regulating metabolism and overall energy levels.

Immune System Support

Selenium plays a crucial role in strengthening the immune system. It aids in the production of white blood cells and enhances the body’s defense against infections and diseases.

Cardiovascular Health

Studies have shown that selenium may reduce the risk of heart diseases by lowering inflammation and oxidative stress, which are common contributors to cardiovascular issues.

Cognitive Function

Selenium is believed to support cognitive function by protecting the brain from oxidative damage and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Selenium, often overshadowed by other nutrients, is a powerful ally in maintaining our health. With its antioxidant properties, potential cancer-fighting abilities, role in thyroid function, immune system support, cardiovascular benefits, and cognitive advantages, this trace mineral deserves more attention in our diet.

Time Health’s SelenoExcell® is comprised of 3 organically bound food form of selenium – selenomethionine, selenocysteine, and methyl-selenocysteine – which replicate natural selenium found in food. Food form selenium yeast has been documented by the European Food Standards Agency as being the safest and most bio-effective form of selenium and is far better absorbed and used by the body than inorganic selenium.

Sources:

Rayman, M. P. (2000). The importance of selenium to human health. The Lancet, 356(9225), 233-241.

Duffield-Lillico, A. J., et al. (2003). Selenium supplementation, baseline plasma selenium status and incidence of prostate cancer: an analysis of the complete treatment period of the Nutritional Prevention of Cancer Trial. BJU International, 91(7), 608-612.

Köhrle, J. (2013). Selenium and the thyroid. Current Opinion in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Obesity, 20(5), 441-448.

Avery, J. C., & Hoffmann, P. R. (2018). Selenium, selenoproteins, and immunity. Nutrients, 10(9), 1203.

Alehagen, U., et al. (2015). Significant changes in circulating microRNA by dietary supplementation of selenium and coenzyme Q10 in healthy elderly males: a randomized, controlled trial. PLoS ONE, 10(3), e0127409.

Solovyev, N. D., & Gladyshev, V. N. (2012). The human selenoproteome: recent insights into functions and regulation. Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences, 69(17), 2457-2478.