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SELENIUM
with zinc
Selenium, Beta Carotene (pro-vitamin A). C, E and
Zinc amongst other substances are often described as powerful
antioxidants. It has, within the last twenty years, become more
apparent that these nutrients make a significant contribution to
health because they have the ability to defend the body from free
radical attack. Free radicals can be defined as unstable atoms, ions
or molecules and are generated in many ways, from normal biochemical
pathways such as respiration, to such external sources as cigarette
smoke exhaust fumes, LJV. light, drugs and alcohol. Free radicals
are also produced by the body
to protect it from invading bacteria. If free radicals are over
produced in the body they can damage the body's tissues and blood
vessels, degrade collagen ( required for healthy ligaments, tendons,
cartilages and spinal discs) and damage joints by attacking the
synovial fluid (lubricant). The damage caused by free radical attack
can result in many of the most life threatening diseases of mankind
as well as other conditions that lead to a poor quality of life.
The Benefits of Selenium with Zinc
Antioxidants -
all these nutrients work in many different ways to ensure that free
radicals are not allowed to damage the body's tissues and blood
vessels.
Infertility -
recent studies published in the British Medical Journal have
indicated that selenium levels may have fallen, in soil and
subsequently in the body, so low as to impair our health and this is
also being linked to falling sperm counts amongst adult males.
Growth - Vitamin A ' Beta Carotene are important in the
promotion of growth, strong bones, healthy teeth, skin. hair and
gums. They also counteract night blindness, weak
eyesight and help build resistance to respirator}'
infections,
Infection -Vitamin C has been shown to be important for fighting
infection, promoting
healthy teeth and gums. aiding iron in preventing
anaemia and strengthening blood capillaries.
Circulation and Heart Disease
-Vitamin E has been shown to be important in the
maintenance of blood circulation, healing and the prevention of
blood clots. Recent studies have also indicated that Vitamin E may
be important in lowering the risk of heart disease. Vitamin B6 is
important for preventing the build up of homocysteine which is
undesirable because it leads to an increased risk of
heart disease & atherosclerosis. Prostate Enlargement - Zinc can
reduce enlarged prostate and alleviate adverse symptoms and
generally help to alleviate pain and swelling,
Properties
Selenium -
part of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, is an antioxidant which
protects the body by defending the damaging effects of free radicals
and reduces the harmful oxidation of fats in the blood and in doing
so may help to maintain a healthy heart and circulation. It is also
part of the enzyme iodothyronine deiodinase which converts the
thyroid hormone to its active form.
Vitamin A / Beta Carotene -
Beta carotene scavenges free radicals and can also 'quench' oxygen
radicals. One molecule of beta carotene can quench up to a thousand
oxygen radicals.
Vitamin B6
-methionine is converted to homocysteine in the body and back to
methionine by a process which is stopped by B6 deficiency. To
prevent homocysteine build up, which is undesirable, it is essential
therefore that sufficient B6 is present when methionine is ingested.
Vitamin B6 is also important for the absorption of zinc.
Vitamin C -
transforms the radical form of Vitamin E back into the protective
form, demonstrating the need for both vitamins. Also important in
collagen formation and iron absorption.
Vitamin E -
concentrates in cell membranes and attaches itself to lipid peroxy
radicals thus becoming a radical itself and requiring vitamin C to
convert back. Vitamin E can also scavenge free radicals before they
hit cell membranes, Also important in cell
respiration, reproduction and enhancing vitamin A
activity.
Zinc -
is involved in stabilising membrane structures and in protection at
the cellular level by preventing lipid peroxidation and reducing
free radical formation. Also important in cell division, growth and
reproduction and the removal of toxic metals.
Copper - is important in many processes including the
conversion oftyrosine into pigment which colours hair. helps the
body oxidise vitamin C. helps build nerve fibres and is also
involved in protein metabolism. It is also important
for iron absorption and is added to prevent copper deficiency due lo
the presence of zinc.
Contra-indications / Precautions
Selenium is toxic in high doses and no more than
200ug per day should be taken.
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