What is selenium and where is it used in the body?
Rachel Agnew: Selenium is an essential trace element and a powerful antioxidant. Selenium is transported by blood circulation to various tissues in the body. WA: Why is selenium good for me? Rachel Agnew: Selenium is best known for its role in the glutathione peroxidase enzyme system, a major antioxidant defense system in the body. These selenium-dependent enzymes reduce toxicity of metals, help prevent oxidative damage, and regenerate vitamin C. WA: What health conditions can selenium help protect against? Agnew: Some studies indicate that mortality from cancer including lung, colorectal, and prostate cancers, is lower among people with higher selenium blood concentrations or intake. Adequate selenium concentrations support healthy immune function and decrease oxidative stress. Several studies suggest that selenium supplementation appears to enhance immunity even in those without a selenium deficiency. WA: Where does selenium occur naturally? Agnew: The level of selenium in food is di
