Selenium (Amino Acid Chelate)
Selenium, also known as amino acid chelate, is an important trace mineral required by the human body. Learn all about the many health benefits of this element. Apart from the three macro nutrients (carbohydrates, fats, and proteins), the human body requires an assortment of minerals and vitamins to function properly. Selenium is one such important mineral that is required in trace amount through our daily diet. Poultry, crab, meats, brazil nuts, brown rice, oats and water are major sources of this element. Individuals suffering from selenium deficiency in their diet can experience from chronic fatigue and muscular pain. Also known as amino acid chelate, selenium is noted for its role in several important body functions including optimal metabolism and antioxidant properties. There is also considerable evidence that adequate amount of selenium in the diet can lower the risk of cancer and heart complications.
Selenium Health Benefits
Several studies have established the key role played by selenium in maintaining our overall well being. Following are some of the top benefits of this important trace element.
Free Radicals - Human body is under constant oxidative stress. Oxidative stress means the damage that is caused by free radicals through a process called oxidation. Left unchecked, free radicals can cause irreversible damage to cells, leading to their mutation. This causes a range of health complications including cancer. Selenium combats the threat posed by such free radicals as it helps a group of enzymes to act as antioxidants. In addition, selenium also helps recycle vitamin C in the body, leading to improved antioxidant protection.
Thyroid - Selenium, or amino acid chelate, is also responsible for activating an enzyme that transforms a particular thyroid hormone from its passive to a more active form. This transformation from passive to a more active hormone allows the thyroid gland to function normally, averting several probable health complications.
Antioxidant - Zinc is an anti-inflammatory agent as well as an antioxidant. Zinc arrests the activities of harmful free radicals within the body that cause irreversible damage to cells. Damaged cells can lead to a number of severe complications including cancer. Having adequate amounts of zinc in your diet ensures that such cellular damage in minimized. Similarly, its anti-inflammatory properties keeps the heart healthy, lowering the risk of cardiovascular complications.
Health conditions - Zinc has also been studied for its role in arresting several debilitating health conditions including diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome, and diarrhea. In addition, zinc directly and positively impacts liver health.