How to Boost Your Immunity Against the Coronavirus Series - Selenium
Selenium
Selenium is a trace element that is naturally present in many plant-based foods, added to others, and available as a dietary supplement. The amount of selenium in a given type of plant-based food depends on the amount of selenium in the soil and several other factors, such as soil pH, amount of organic matter in the soil, and whether the selenium is in a form that is amenable to plant uptake. The selenium content of soil affects the amounts of selenium in the plants that animals eat, so the quantities of selenium in animal products also vary.
Selenium, which is nutritionally essential for humans, but not produced by the human body. Selenium plays a role in, but not limited to these diseases and disorders.
Cancer - Because of its effects on DNA repair, apoptosis, and the endocrine and immune systems as well as other mechanisms, including its antioxidant properties, selenium might play a role in the prevention of cancer.
Cardiovascular disease - Selenoproteins help prevent the oxidative modification of lipids, reducing inflammation and preventing platelets from aggregating. For these reasons, experts have suggested that selenium supplements could reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease or deaths associated with cardiovascular disease.
Cognitive decline - Serum selenium concentrations decline with age. Marginal or deficient selenium concentrations might be associated with age-related declines in brain function, possibly due to decreases in selenium’s antioxidant activity.
Thyroid disease - Selenium concentration is higher in the thyroid gland than in any other organ in the body, and, like iodine, selenium has important functions in thyroid hormone synthesis and metabolism.
Boosts your immune system - Your immune system keeps your body healthy by identifying and fighting off potential threats. These include bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Selenium plays an important role in the health of your immune system. This antioxidant helps lower oxidative stress in your body, which reduces inflammation and enhances immunity. Studies have demonstrated that increased blood levels of selenium are associated with enhanced immune response.
May help reduce asthma symptoms - Due to selenium’s ability to reduce inflammation, some studies suggest that this mineral may help reduce asthma-related symptom
Selenium is found in garlic, broccoli, oysters, halibut, sardines, tuna, eggs, chicken breast, nuts, especially Bazile nuts, whole grains, and mushrooms, especially Shitake mushrooms.