The importance of selenium seems to increase every time a new study is completed involving this mineral. Selenium functions as a cofactor in enzyme systems, exerting effects similar to the free radical fighting action of Vitamin E. This trace mineral works with Vitamin E to enhance immunity and create enzymes which protect the body from harmful peroxides. As an antioxidant, selenium has emerged as a critical nutrient for the prevention of many diseases and is essential for people of all ages.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, cure or prevent disease.

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Suggested Use:

One (1) drop each day as a dietary supplement or as otherwise directed by a health care professional.

Deficiencies of the mineral in crops and soil has been linked to cancer rates in many locations. Cancer death rates have been shown to be much less in areas where the mineral content of the soil is highest. Selenium has been shown to be protective against esophageal, stomach, colon, and rectal cancers.

For women, boosting selenium intake appears to exert a powerful effect against the development of breast cancer. A study conducted at the University of California at San Diego found that after increasing the selenium content of the diet, the breast cancer rate dropped from 82% to 10% in female mice.1 A study conducted two years later at the University of California at San Francisco supports this finding.2 This study compared the average Asian versus American diet. The typical American diet contained much less selenium and much more polyunsaturated fats than the Asian diet. Because the breast cancer rate is considerably lower among Asian populations, it was suggested that diets rich in selenium and low in polyunsaturated fats play an important role in the prevention of this disease.

In addition to its benefits in breast cancer, it is also important for women to be aware that selenium requirements increase during pregnancy, particularly in the later stages. Babies with low birth weight have low levels of the mineral in their bodies. Low selenium levels in newborns has been linked to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). In areas where the soil content of selenium is lowest, the SIDS rate is much higher.

Supplemental selenium has shown to be effective for a variety of conditions. Even persons with normal levels of the mineral have shown improvements in immune system functioning after taking selenium supplements. In combination with Vitamin E, these supplements work to relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. In both oral and topical form, selenium protects the skin from ultraviolet radiation. This can cause both acute and chronic skin damage. One researcher argues that a selenium intake of 100 mcg daily (doubled for those with a history of cancer) in the form of L-selenomethionine reduces the risk of skin cancer. However, until more is known about its toxicity, an adult should restrict daily intake to no more than 200 mcg unless under a physician's supervision.

Selenium supplementation increases glutathione peroxidase activity. This antioxidant enzyme is dependent on selenium and works with other antioxidants to combat free radicals. Glutathione peroxidase is involved in the formation and function of white blood cells, contributing to a healthy immune system. This same enzyme also prevents free radicals from inducing cancer-promoting cell damage, and is seen as an important factor in maintaining a healthy heart. This is especially important for smokers. It is often recommended as part of the treatment for post-heart attack patients. According to researchers at Karolinska Hospital in Stockholm, Sweden, the increase of glutathione peroxidase may also help counteract the inflammation and disordered respiration associated with asthma.3

1. Schrauzer G, 1974, as cited in Passwater, The New Supernutrition, 1991, 125.

2. Wilson C, FASEB news briefs; Chem. Eng. News 12 (May 3, 1976).

3. Hasselmark L, Malmgren R, Zetterstrom O, et al: Selenium supplementation in intrinsic asthma. Allergy 1993;48:30-36.