DESCRIPTION
Now regarded as an essential trace Elements in humans and animals, selenium is found in uneven quantities in parts of the earth’s surface. Selenium toxicity has been noted in areas where selenium content of the ground is high, but selenium deficiency is a far more widespread problem - contributing to Infertility, heart problems, eye disease and premature Aging.
FUNCTIONS
Selenium carries out its main functions as part of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase. Glutathione peroxidase is an antioxidant that protects intracellular structures against oxidative damage by free radicals.
Selenium is known to have a role in the following:
* Preservation of normal liver function.
* Antioxidant protection of all body cells.
* Maintenance of a healthy heart.
* Inhibition of harmful effects from heavy metals such as arsenic, cadmium, mercury and lead.
* Production of beneficial anti-inflammatory prostaglandins.
* Production of thyroxine hormone.
