VIRIDIAN - Selenium 200ug – 90 Veg Capsules

Selenium contributes to the maintenance of normal hair and nails, the normal function of the immune system, normal thyroid function and for the protection of cells from oxidative stress. This ‘oxidative stress’ appears to be a major factor in many human diseases.

Selenium also contributes to normal spermatogenesis (the creation of sperm). Intensive farming has led to greatly reduced levels of this important mineral in our foods. This supplement presents selenium in the preferred selenomethionine form.

Selenium is safe at the level people typically supplement (100–200 mcg); however, taking more than 900 mcg of selenium per day has been reported to cause adverse effects in some people.

Intakes of 750ug per day may result in biochemical abnormalities. Much higher levels may produce similar symptoms to that of deficiency.

Potential applications: Selenium has a broad range of activities and potential applications including; cardiovascular disease, male infertility, foetal health and development, thyroid regulation, anti-viral (particularly Coxsackie virus), elevated cholesterol (LDL), inflammatory conditions e.g. psoriasis and asthma. Other responsive conditions include auto-immune disorders, (e.g. Multiple sclerosis, thyroiditis), cataracts and acne.

Known contraindications: None known.

Interactions: Copper and selenium appear to interact, with copper deficiency giving rise to decreased activity of GSH. Many toxic elements such as; lead, cadmium, mercury, and gold possess selenium-antagonistic properties.

Selenium also interacts with the amino acid methionine. Dietary selenium is found as selenomethionine. Thus the potency of selenium in this form may be reduced if a situation of methionine deficiency exists. Supplemental seleno-methionine helps overcome this concern.

Deficiency of both vitamin E and selenium has been shown to increase markers of free radical damage on polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Useful links: Cellular protection – vitamin E, alpha lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10, flax seed oil, blue food blend.

Note Selenium deficiency in humans is known as Keshan’s disease. This condition results in dry flaky skin, loss of hair and skin pigmentation, whitening of nail beds, bilateral muscle discomfort, and pain, and cardiomyopathy. Thyroid and reproductive problems are common, along with the appearance of the Coxsackie virus.