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Selenium is a chemical element found in the soil. It can be found in plants or grass grazing animal meat. Nuts such as Brazil Nut also contains high levels of Selenium. It is also believed to be found in cereals constituting about 50% of dietary Selenium. Some researchers also believe that the reason garlic helps block cancer in animals is due to its high Selenium content.
Scientists suggest a potential fruitful link between Selenium and cancer. Physician Larry Clark believes increased Selenium as a supplement may reduce cancer risks by up to 40%. Studies show, blood with high Selenium content may reduce cancer risks. It can help avoid pancreatic as well as bladder cancer. Research has shown that those with a lower content of Selenium are at a great risk of developing bladder cancer. Low levels of Selenium may cause a wide spread of other harmful viruses in the body.
Selenium is an essential element that helps the body to make Selenoproteins. These proteins can then be used as antioxidants by the body which helps in reducing damage to the cells. It is useful as it can have direct effect on cancer cells. Apart from cancer, Selenium is also useful for the smooth and normal functioning of the body’s immune system.
The most common type of cancer affecting men in the United States of America is Prostate cancer. Studies show, men with higher levels of Selenium are at a lower risk of Prostate cancer than those with relatively lower content. It is also proven to help reduce risks of colon cancer amongst others. However, uncertainty remains whether Selenium may help with women’s cancer such as ovarian or breast cancer as not many women are known to have participated in research relating to Selenium and cancer.
Although high Selenium content may reduce cancer risks, controversy exits it may also prove toxic and poisonous in large doses, as warned by Selenium supplement providers around the world.