Selenium is an essential trace mineral important for cognitive function, a healthy immune system, and fertility for both men and women.  Selenium aids in many of the metabolic pathways.  Ongoing research is exploring the relationship between low selenium levels and coronary heart disease.  Selenium is incorporated into over twenty-five proteins called selenoproteins, that play pivotal roles in a number of bodily activities, from activating thyroid hormones to regenerating vitamin C.  For skin care, selenium’s antioxidant properties regenerate vitamins E and C, thereby decreasing the aging of the skin.  One sign of a selenium deficiency in adultsmay appear as ‘age spots’ or ‘liver spots’.  Major benefits of selenium have been found to improve the immune system against bacterial and viral infections, against cancer cells, and herpes virus, cold sores, and shingles.  One of the major nutritional benefits of selenium is increasing the HDL cholesterol to LDL cholesterol ratio for a healthy heart.

Selenium’s principal function is to inhibit the oxidation of lipids (fats), a component of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase.  It is a vital antioxidant, especially when combined with vitamin E (more oxygen, less cancer).  It protects the immune system by preventing the formation of free radicals that can damage the body.  Selenium also plays a vital role in regulating the effects of thyroid hormone on fat metabolism.  One study found that men who took 200mcg daily over a ten year period had roughly half the risk of developing lung, prostate, and colorectal cancer as compared with the men who did not.