Selenium as a Cancer Fighter

Monday, March 22, 2010

Selenium is a trace mineral needed in the body to support different processes. This mineral is present in every cell of the human body but it is more concentrated in the liver, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, and testes. The importance of selenium is not discovered until 1979, and then later on found out to be a very powerful trace mineral for fighting cancer. And today, many experts around the globe believe that selenium is a very important nutrient to fight different types of diseases. But what are the qualities of selenium that put it at the center of attraction in the search of potential minerals that fight cancer? First, selenium acts as an antioxidant. It helps in blocking the rogue molecules that damages the DNA in the body. Furthermore, it protects the cells from the dietary toxins and other environmental factors that could make the cells in the body deformed if left unguarded. It is also a supplement used to boost resistance against different disorders like: cancer, cataracts, macular degeneration, heart disease, and stroke that is due to those free radical damage. In addition, Selenium is also used to fight viral infections, relieve lupus symptoms, and can prevent shingles and cold sores. Recently, selenium has been in the highlight of attention due to its known role in combating cancer. Studies found out that 200mcg of selenium taken daily results to a 63% lower chances of having a prostate tumor, 58% higher chances of preventing colorectal cancers, 46% more tolerance against lung malignancies, and a remarkable 39% overall cancer death decrease. Selenium works in team with vitamin E to boost the condition of body growth and fertility and in some metabolic processes. Furthermore, selenium serves as a natural antioxidant that preserves the tissue of the body and therefore slows the aging process. It is also very effective in protecting the body against free radical objects such as toxin that enters the body. Selenium is present in several human body processes ranging from reproduction and thyroid activity, DNA synthesis, muscular functions, eye functions, and even in helping the heart to perform efficiently. To further explain this, selenium is essential in the body to maintain proper thyroid function which will affect in the body metabolism. Selenium is they key in ensuring adequate body O2 supply which improves the function of the heart and other cells in the body that produces energy.