Magnesium often steals the spotlight when it comes to minerals, but let’s chat about an unsung hero—selenium! This essential trace mineral might not need a spotlight, but it plays a crucial role in our well-being, especially when teamed up with vitamin E to form a dynamic antioxidant duo. It’s also a superstar for thyroid health and boosts our immune system with a little help from vitamin C.
Now, let’s explore some exciting, scientifically-backed ways selenium guards our health:
- Thyroid Health: Selenium teams up with iodine to keep our thyroid hormones, which manage our metabolism and fat-burning processes, in tip-top shape. Low selenium can lead to hypothyroidism, marked by weight gain and fatigue, but boosting your intake can help keep your thyroid happy and healthy.
- A Mighty Antioxidant: Fighting off disease and aging, selenium is a powerful antioxidant that tackles harmful free radicals and oxidative stress, keeping diseases at bay and your body feeling young.
- Cancer Prevention: Even in small amounts, selenium has a mighty power to combat cancer. It helps our cells repair DNA and reduces the risk of developing cancer, particularly breast, lung, colon, and prostate cancers.
- Heart Health: A selenium-rich diet could be your heart’s best friend. Studies link higher selenium levels with a reduced risk of heart attacks and strokes, thanks to its ability to fight inflammation and protect our blood vessels.
- Boosting the Immune System: Selenium is fantastic for our immune system, helping it fight off bacteria, viruses, and even reducing autoimmune reactions. It’s especially helpful in managing conditions like asthma and enhancing the body’s healing processes.
- Improves Asthma Symptoms: For those with asthma, selenium may reduce inflammation and help ease breathing by lowering oxidative stress, potentially reducing the need for steroid treatments.
- Enhances Fertility and Testosterone Levels: Selenium might boost fertility, improving sperm motility and overall reproductive health. While its effects on testosterone are debated, its role in fertility is promising.
Wondering if you need more selenium? It’s primarily found in foods like Brazil nuts, halibut, oysters, and chicken, depending on the selenium content of the soil where the food is grown. The daily recommended intake is 55 micrograms for most, but just a little more for pregnant and nursing women.
While selenium is essential, remember, moderation is key—too much can have adverse effects. Always consider how selenium interacts with other supplements and medications you may be taking. So, next time you’re planning a meal or considering a supplement, think about how selenium can be a part of your journey to optimal health!
3 Fruits That Wreck Your Digestion
Are you turning healthy fruits into highly unhealthy fruits, without even realizing it?
Fruit can be one of the healthiest things you can put into your body, but the majority of Americans are guilty of making this single mistake that can counteract all of the health benefits of fruit.
Some fruits can help with occasional constipation, reduce bloating, and even help burn calories.
Others can wreak havoc on your digestive system and energy levels.
In this viral presentation, world-renowned heart surgeon Dr. Steven Gundry showcases the three fruits to stop eating today.
Click here to learn the top 3 common foods that are the cause of your fatigue.
P.S. Eliminating these fruits could forever change the way we help increase energy levels, decrease brain fog, support digestion, and even lose weight.
