Selenium is a trace mineral that serves as one of the key elements of human body’s antioxidant immune system.
Research suggests that selenium can protect humans against cancer of the lung, ovaries, breast, colon, liver, cervix, skin, stomach and uterus. When sufficient selenium levels are achieved, the risk of getting cancer is half that of a person who is selenium deficient.
Selenium has a beneficial effect on the immune function, strengthening primarily the cell-mediated immunity by upregulating the expression of the T-cell high-affinity IL-2 receptor and as consequence, also stimulating antibody production. Selenium works synergistically with Vitamin E, A and C as an antioxidant.
Selenium has been reported to detoxify environmental poisons and toxins in human bodies such as arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury and facilitates their excretion. from the body.
By detoxifying per oxidized fats, via its role in the enzyme glutathione and peroxidase, selenium inhibits their carcinogenicity (cancer promoting traits).
Selenium also counteracts many of the toxic effects of smoking tobacco.
Selenium also acts as inflammatory agent, it may be important in combating inflammation related conditions such as cardiovascular disease.
Researchers have reported that’s selenium levels may be important in certain autoimmune diseases such as autoimmune thyroiditis (Grave’s disease and Hashimoto’s disease).
Smoking depletes the body's selenium supplies. In the liver this mineral retards the conversion of hydrocarbons into carcinogens — an important function in our polluted environment.
Selenium is found in seafood, meats and Brazil nut. However, modern methods of farming and processing foods have depleted their nutritional value of this much needed mineral, along with other essential minerals.
The role of selenium in the immune system
