SELENIUM – A TRACE ELEMENT IN THE HUMAN BODY
It is necessary for the proper functioning of the body, the immune system, enzymatic systems. The most important function is to create a powerful antioxidant – glutathione peroxidase. It protects erythrocytes and cell membranes against the harmful effects of free radicals. Also in this mechanism, it delays the aging process of the body and accelerates cell regeneration.
Selenium has a very important role in the action of thyroid hormones – it is a key mineral of deiodinase I, the enzyme that converts T4 to T3 (thyroid hormones). Iodine deficiency adversely affects the normal metabolism of thyroid hormones, reducing the activity of triiodothyronine (T3). Hence, more frequent selenium supplementation in people with hypothyroidism (including Hashimoto’s disease).
In addition, selenium supports the body’s anti-cancer response and negatively affects the replication of viruses, including oncogenic viruses, i.e. those causing cancer. Selenium also has anti-inflammatory effects, reducing excessive inflammation in many diseases (e.g., RA (rheumatoid arthritis), SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus)). Selenium is involved in the production and maturation of spermatozoa.
SELENIUM IS USED TO TREAT:
• hypothyroidism (including Hashimoto’s disease),
• viral diseases (hepatitis B, C, HIV / AIDS, herpes zoster, herpes, oncogenic viruses and many others),
• cancer prevention and treatment (reduces the risk of smokers developing lung cancer),
• bronchial asthma
• rheumatoid arthritis,
• male infertility,
• cardiovascular diseases
• pancreatitis.