The rate of inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerous colitis is growing, and diet plays a major role. Even if you eat a healthy diet, it can be a challenge to get enough selenium because of the selenium-depleted soil in our part of the world. Apparently, selenium supplementation can lower the disease activity and improve quality of life in patients with ulcerous colitis.

Our bodies naturally produce Q10, a compound with a crucial role in cellular energy metabolism that also functions as an antioxidant and protects against cell damage. Our natural production of Q10 declines significantly with age and as a result of various stress factors, thereby accelerating signs of aging. This also affects the condition of the skin. Research suggests that skincare products containing Q10 may slow down visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles and sagging skin. This is supported by a review article published in The Journal of Clinical Aesthetic Dermatology. Additionally, previous studies indicate that high-quality Q10 supplements may have potential benefits in counteracting various aging processes and the development of chronic diseases.

When cells convert the calories from food into energy, a variety of B vitamins, vitamin C, iron, magnesium, zinc, and Q10 are needed. This also means that a deficiency in one or more of these substances can result in mental and physical fatigue to a greater or lesser extent. The impaired energy metabolism of the cells also increases the risk of mood swings, concentration difficulty, infections, and other diseases. Modern lifestyle, ageing processes, medications, and other factors cause serious deficiencies, but these deficiencies can be corrected with help from dietary changes and relevant supplements.

Newly diagnosed cancer patients often lack selenium. Not only does this contribute to the development of the disease, but it also worsens the prognosis. An estimated one billion people worldwide are selenium-deficient and there are many things that can explain it. High-doses selenium supplementation of cancer patients seems to have a positive effect on their health and quality of life during rehabilitation, and the best effect is seen when blood selenium levels remain high, according to a German study published in Nutrients.

- atherosclerosis, and early death

Cholesterol is an essential compound with many different functions. However, it can also turn into a potentially dangerous substance if it oxidizes and is embedded in the blood vessel walls. This oxidative process is what eventually leads to atherosclerosis. The trace element selenium protects against atherosclerosis because of its antioxidant properties and because of other mechanisms, according to a review article published in Biomedicine. This is highly relevant in our part of the world where cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death, and where selenium deficiency is so widespread.

Selenium is involved in enzymes that activate thyroid hormones. It is also part of several antioxidants that protect cells and the circulatory system from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, selenium is crucial for the optimal utilization of Q10, which plays a role in cellular energy metabolism. However, selenium intake in many European countries is too low, mainly due to depleted soil. At the same time, the body’s endogenous production of Q10 declines significantly with age. This can lead to metabolic disorders, atherosclerosis, fatigue, and other deficiency-related conditions. According to a follow-up study published in BMC Medicine, supplementation with selenium and Q10 has a positive effect on thyroid hormones, circulation, quality of life, and lifespan.

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common underlying cause of hypothyroidism. It is characterized by extreme fatigue, weight gain, and a number of other symptoms. Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune condition where antibodies attack the thyroid gland. Many people who get treatment for their disease don’t improve, on the contrary. According to a meta-analysis published in Medicine, however, selenium supplementation appears to be able to reduce the autoimmune reactions and the body’s production of the different antibodies. Selenium helps control the thyroid function but also serves as an antioxidant that protects the thyroid gland against oxidative stress.

Cholesterol-lowering statins are associated with side effects such as aching muscles, fatigue, memory problems, diabetes, and poor sleep. At a molecular level, these drugs interfere with the body’s synthesis of Q10, which we need for cellular energy turnover. Moreover, Q10 is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells against free radical damage. According to a review article published in the journal Cureus, Q10 supplements may lower side effects such as muscle pain.