In the realm of health and wellness, the spotlight often shines on trendy superfoods and miracle supplements. However, amidst the buzz, there lies a quiet hero that plays a vital role in immune regulation and surveillance - selenium.
Understanding Selenium Selenium, a trace mineral not often in the limelight, boasts a range of benefits that are crucial for maintaining a robust immune system. From enhancing immunity to reducing the risk of various diseases, selenium stands as a powerful ally in our quest for overall well-being. Selenium gets a bad wrap as high levels are toxic. Often nutraceuticals are labelled in a way that makes selenium look dangerous. Recommended doses are 50-200mcg daily, overdosing an adult would mean doses of 2000mcg (2mg) so over 10 times the recommended dose... let's be clear approximately 40%of the population is deficient. So yes, don't overdo it, but the benefits are vast.
Food Sources
Selenium rich foods include; nuts, broccoli, avocado, eggs, seafood, garlic, wholegrains, onions, organ meats. Processing of wholegrains reduced levels by 40-50%.
Boosting Immunity Against Viruses One of selenium's remarkable feats is its ability to fortify our defense mechanisms against viral invasions. The mineral acts as a shield, strengthening immune responses to combat viral infections effectively. This heightened immunity not only safeguards against viral onslaughts but also aids in decreasing susceptibility to infections. When it comes to specific viral strains like Influenza A, selenium emerges as a potent antiviral agent. Its ability to combat the influenza virus showcases its significance in protecting us against prevalent respiratory infections. Influenza A viral clearance and recovery is improved by selenium.
Battle Against Sepsis and Infections Furthermore, selenium's impact extends to combating sepsis and preventing the progression of this life-threatening condition. It proves valuable in reducing the risk of sepsis and halting its advancement, offering a glimmer of hope in critical care scenarios.
Guarding Against Autoimmunity
Surprisingly, selenium doesn't stop at viral & bacterial protection. Studies suggest that selenium plays a crucial role in curbing autoimmunity, reducing the risk of autoimmune disorders. Selenium is important for increasing T1 cells which fight infection, yet reducing T2 cells which are more involved in allergy & autoimmune responses. For individuals grappling with Hashimoto's disease, selenium offers relief by reducing thyroid antibodies associated with the condition. This reduction in antibodies signifies a potential improvement in the autoimmune response, showcasing selenium's efficacy in managing autoimmune disorders.
Shielding Against Gastrointestinal Challenges For gastrointestinal health, selenium serves as a guardian against gut infections caused by harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and Listeria. Its protective effects help in reducing the inflammation involved in inflammatory bowel disease and other gut-related infections.
Post-Surgical Relief with Selenium Additionally, selenium's benefits extend to post-surgery care, particularly in enhancing lymphedema management. Its role in promoting lymphatic health post-surgery highlights its importance in reducing oxidative stress & aiding recovery processes and ensuring optimal outcomes for patients.
In conclusion, selenium emerges as a silent yet powerful ally in the realm of immune regulation and surveillance. Its multifaceted benefits, ranging from viral protection to autoimmune management, underscore the crucial role this trace mineral plays in maintaining overall health and well-being. Remember, in the intricate dance of health and immunity, selenium might just be the secret ingredient you've been missing.
Lesley x References Huang Z, Rose AH, Hoffmann PR. The role of selenium in inflammation and immunity: from molecular mechanisms to therapeutic opportunities. Antioxid Redox Signal. 2012 Apr 1;16(7):705-43. doi: 10.1089/ars.2011.4145. Epub 2012 Jan 9. PMID: 21955027; PMCID: PMC3277928.
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