Topic of the week: Selenium |

Topic of the week: Selenium

Topic of the week: Lifestyle And Heart Disease

Every week, Dr. Paul addresses a specific topic related to health and fitness. Please send in your questions.

Selenium

Over three years ago, I briefly mentioned the contribution played by the nutrient selenium in the function(s) of vitamin E and the subsequent relationship to protecting the body’s immune system. Indeed, more recent evidence has begun to surface showing the relationship between lower levels of selenium and the incidence of some types of cancer—especially in men. Moreover, it appears that there may even be a “link” between selenium intake and what is known as “age related cognitive decline”. Basically, it was found, that the lower one’s level of selenium, the lower the ‘cognitive function” or ability to think appeared to be. Additionally, the amount of selenium in the diet seemed to have what is referred to as a “dose response” (in other words, the higher the level of dietary selenium, the higher the level of cognitive function).

It must be understood, of course, that the normal sources of selenium (such as fish, lean meats, vegetables and WHOLE grains) are easily obtained with a balanced diet. As usual, however, the average American does not necessarily consume a “balanced diet”. Processed foods play havoc with the nutrient density of many of the foods that we consume and, in another related way, some vegetables (even the fresh ones) and whole grains may be grown in soil that is somewhat depleted of selenium. Couple this with the fact that too much selenium (400 micrograms per day is considered the “Tolerable Upper Limit”) may be toxic to some individuals and it looks like supplementation might be a tricky task. So what is one to do?

Well, a balanced diet or eating plan might be a good place to start but, failing that approach, make sure that supplementation is “reasonable” in terms of daily dosage. Remember that whatever the amount of nutrient “supplement” that is consumed, the amount must (and should) be calculated with respect to the amount being consumed via the daily intake of foods. And always check with your doctor or health care specialist if you feel that supplementation is necessary. In many cases supplementation may help BUT taken in quantities that are too large and for too long, ANY supplement can be a double-edged sword. Toxicity with some nutrients, as stated, is a possibility that should be part of the thought process of any supplementation program. Know the “Tolerable Upper Limit” of any nutrient and adjust your supplementation program based upon your eating plan. In this way, consumption of necessary nutrients is accomplished in a more balanced and safe manner. Selenium is a good example of the positive effects that can occur with proper intake and a good example of what might occur with over consumption. As usual, the best advice is to consume a variety of foods in moderation to insure a healthy and sufficient level of dietary nutrients.

I’m Dr. Paul Kennedy and that’s the “Be Fit, Stay Fit” Topic of the Week. Good luck with YOUR program. I KNOW you can do it!