Live Longer and Feel Better
07/08 -
from "Rust Out" by Dr Bailey page 91
Selenium
Increase your longevity and health by taking 200 micrograms (mcg) of selenium a day in the form of selenomethionine or high selenium yeast. Selenium functions as a component of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase; reducing free radical damage, seen in aging.
Benefits of Selenium
Glutathione peroxidase is responsible for the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide, which is seen at very high levels, in the aqueous humor of the eye, in patients with cataracts. This trace mineral selenium, enhances the immune system and can help stimulate white cell and thymus activity. Selenium diminishes adverse effects of drugs and alcohol in the body. Selenium is involved in thyroid hormone production and serves as an antagonist to heavy metals such as mercury, aluminum and cadmium.
Low Selenium Levels
Heart disease rates are highest where selenium intake is the lowest, as seen in certain parts of China and the U.S.. The anti-cancer effects of selenium are more significant in men than in women. With it protective effects in colorectal, lung and prostate cancer. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis, eczema and psoriasis all have low selenium and glutathione peroxidase levels. There is a tentative link between low selenium levels and sudden infant death syndrome.
Source:
Julian Spallholz, PhD, Professor of Nutritional Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock.
Chris D. Meletis, ND, Practical Reviews In Complementary & Alternative Medicine, July 2001; 3-11(2).
