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Selenium deficiency and how it affects the gut flora, intestinal diseases, and mental health

 Selenium deficiency and how it affects the gut flora, intestinal diseases, and mental healthSelenium is an essential trace element of vital importance to our general health. The nutrient is also important for our gut flora, and being selenium-deficient may increase the risk of irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory gut diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerous colitis, and even bowel cancer. Our intestine is also called our “third brain” because both our gut flora and digestion have a significant influence on our mental well-being, according to a review article published in Frontiers in Nutrition. The authors focus on selenium because selenium deficiencies are common in China, Europe, and many other places, and supplementation may be necessary.

Read more about selenium deficiency and its impact on gut flora, gut health, and mental health Selenium deficiency and how it affects the gut flora, intestinal diseases, and mental health

Trauma patients benefit from early intervention with selenium

Trauma patients benefit from early intervention with seleniumBoth physical traumas and critical illnesses are associated with inflammation and oxidative stress where free radicals can cause potentially life-threatening damage to cells and tissues. Traumas are estimated to be the cause of one in ten deaths. New research suggests that early intervention with selenium may shorten the hospital stay including the days spent in intensive care and reduce total mortality. This was shown in a study published in Frontiers in Nutrition where the researchers looked closer at selenium’s unique antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory effect.

Read more about why trauma patients benefit from early intervention with seleniumTrauma patients benefit from early intervention with selenium

Selenium supplements have a positive effect on brain health and Alzheimer’s disease

Selenium supplements have a positive effect on brain health and Alzheimer’s diseaseThe brain is particularly vulnerable towards oxidative stress and local inflammation that can set the stage for Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological conditions. However, it turns out that certain selenium-containing antioxidants are able to protect the brain neurons against damage. Also, selenium supplements can improve cognitive performance in patients suffering from mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease, according to a meta-analysis that is published in Nutrients.

Read more about selenium’s positive impact on brain health and Alzheimer’s diseaseSelenium supplements have a positive effect on brain health and Alzheimer’s disease

Q10 blocks inflammation

- if taken in an optimal dose

Q10 blocks inflammation Q10 is a popular supplement for boosting energy levels and supporting circulatory health. According to a new meta-analysis that is published in Molecular Nutrition Food Research, the compound is also able to inhibit inflammation, which is the common thread in most chronic diseases. This requires sufficiently high doses of the compound, and it is also important to take high-quality supplements with documented absorption.

Read more about how Q10 inhibits inflammation – if taken in an optimal doseQ10 blocks inflammation

Can a selenium deficiency cause hypertension?

 Can a selenium deficiency cause hypertension?Yes, according to a new study published in Free Radical Biology & Medicine, lack of selenium lowers the kidneys’ sodium excretion via different mechanisms, and that leads to elevated blood pressure. The study results are highly relevant because hypertension and subsequent premature death is a growing global problem. Selenium deficiency is also a widespread problem. One billion people worldwide are believed to be lack this essential nutrient, primarily because of the selenium-depleted agricultural soil in large parts of China, Europe, and other places.

Read mor about the link between low selenium and hypertension Can a selenium deficiency cause hypertension?

Selenium’s effect on chemotherapy and radiation therapy in connection with cervical cancer

Selenium’s effect on chemotherapy and radiation therapy in connection with cervical cancerSelenium is an essential trace element that affects the rate and development of several cancer types, including cervical cancer that is one of the most common cancer forms. Cervical cancer is often treated with a combination of radiation and chemotherapy and the side effects are known to affect the bone marrow and the formation of blood platelets and blood cells. However, supplementation with selenium yeast appears to counteract these adverse effects without interfering with the treatment, according to a study that is published in Frontiers in Nutrition.

Read more about selenium’s effect on chemotherapy and radiation therapy in connection with cervical cancerSelenium’s effect on chemotherapy and radiation therapy in connection with cervical cancer

Q10’s protective effect against neurological diseases

Q10’s protective effect against neurological diseasesNeurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, depression, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, migraine, and fibromyalgia are rather common. These conditions are a result of imbalances in the nervous system, and they are often insidious. In a new review article that is published in Frontiers in Neuroscience, researchers have studied Q10’s role in the different neurological disorders. The reason for this is that Q10 is important for cellular energy turnover and serves as an antioxidant that protects the circulatory system and the nerve cells against oxidative damage. As we grow older, our endogenous Q10 synthesis decreases, and certain diseases and medical drugs also impair the body’s Q10 synthesis.

Read more about how Q10 protects against neurological diseasesQ10’s protective effect against neurological diseases