Selenium

Selenium became one of the most exciting nutrients in the 70’s and 80’s when it switched from being classified solely as toxic to regarded as an essential mineral needed in small amounts daily.  Selenium’s principle function is to inhibit the oxidation of fats as a component of the enzyme GLUTATHIONE PEROXIDASE.  It is a vital antioxidant, especially when it is combined with vitamin E.
Many roles of selenium are:

• Protects the immune system by preventing formation of free radicals
• Regulates the effect of thyroid hormone on fat metabolism
• Preventive against formation of certain types of tumors.
• A study found men who took 200 mg a day over 10 years reduced their risk of developing lung prostate and colorectal cancer by 50% as compared to those who did not supplement.
• Selenium and vitamin E act synergistically to aid in the production of antibodies and help maintain a healthy heart and liver.
• It is needed for pancreatic function and tissue elasticity.
• When combined with ZINC and VITAMIN E, it may also provide relief from an enlarged prostate.
• Supplementation has been found to protect the liver in those with alcoholic cirrhosis.

It has also shown promise in treatment of:

• Arthritis
• Cardiovascular disease
• Male infertility
• Cataracts
• Aids
• High blood pressure
• Deficiencies are linked to:
• Cancer
• Heart disease
• Exhaustion
• Growth impairment
• High cholesterol levels
• Infections
• Liver impairment
• Pancreatic insufficiency
• Sterility

Once study found that lower selenium content in fingernails in elderly Chinese supported the hypothesis that a life long low selenium is associated with LOWER COGNITION.
Sources:

• Meat
• Grains
• Brazil nuts (only true concentrated source)
• Brewer’s yeast
• Broccoli
• Brown rice
• Chicken
• Garlic
• Kelp
• Molasses
• Onions
• Salmon
• Vegetables especially root vegetables.

Unless your healthcare provider prescribes it DO NOT take more than 400mg daily.
One ounce of brazil nuts can contain as much as 544 micrograms of selenium.  If you supplement selenium daily, DO NOT consume Brazil Nuts. 
Depending soil where food is raised, the levels of selenium may vary
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**Note: this post is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure any illnesses. It is for informational purposes only.  Always read and follow the labels when taking supplements and always consult a healthcare professional.