Much research shows a link between selenium deficiency and the development of cancer and heart diseases. In experiments on animals, it was discovered that in mice with selenium deficiency, otherwise harmless vira started mutating into harmful ones.
It is of vital importance that your body has a sufficient amount of vitamin E when you take a selenium supplement. The enzyme glutathione peroxidase, for example, that protects against the unhealthy free radicals needs both these substances in order to work.
A supplement of selenium also is effective against some micro-organisms. In this case, a type without yeast should be used. Selenium also is good for the immune system.
Therapeutic dosage
50 - 200 mcg; preferably as selenomethionine.
Under clinical observation, up to 2000 mcg. daily have been administered to cancer patients without any proven damages such as liver overload or the like.
Selenium prevents lead- and cadmium poisoning. It takes part in the body's production of the co-enzyme Q10, in the maintenance and functioning of the mitochondria, and as an anti-inflammatory antioxidant, e.g. in the enzyme glutathione peroxidase. Both organic and especially inorganic selenium is well-suited for the detoxification of lead in the body (100 - 150 mcg. daily).
The internationally recommended daily dose of selenium from food that you need in order to maintain your health is 50-200 mcg.
In selenium-poor countries such as Denmark or Finland, the average dietary intake of selenium is as low as 45 mcg. Obviously, something will be missing.
Symptoms of Poisoning
The symptoms of over dosage of selenium may occur after daily dosages of more than 1,000 mcg. daily. It may lead to tiredness, lack of appetite, a metallic taste in the mouth, garlic breath without having eaten garlic, skin and nail problems, sensory disturbances and hair loss, amongst other symptoms. Acute selenium poisoning manifests itself as extreme saliva production, garlic breath, gastrointestinal symptoms and increased heart rhythm.
Richest natural sources
Brewer's yeast, tuna, herring, mackerel, bran, shellfish, wheat germ, garlic, onion, broccoli, eggs, cabbage, and tomatoes.
