Abstract

SELENIUM – THE CANCER FIGHTING MINERAL

Md Owais Ashraf*, G. Ramesh, Dr. B.V.S. Lakshmi, Dr. Asha Sara Stephen, Dr. P. Arvinda Swami.

ABSTRACT

Selenium acts as an antioxidant and helps protect the body against the damaging effects of free radicals. Selenium is essential for the activity of glutathione peroxidase, an enzyme that protects against reactive oxygen species and subsequent cell membrane damage. The three forms of selenium most active in preventing cancer are Sodium selenite, L-selenomethionine,Selenium-methyl L-selenocysteine. Selenium was also linked to a limited suggestive lower risk of stomach cancer, and selenium supplements to a limited suggestive increased risk of skin cancer. Selenium deficiencies are now known to increase the risk of cancers of the lung, bladder, stomach, esophagus, and liver. A diet rich in selenium is beneficial, of course, however supplementation of all three types of selenium, L-selenomethionine, sodium selenite and selenium-methyl l-selenocysteine would be worthwhile to ensure you get all of the anti-cancer benefits. In conclusion, this report continues to provide support for the efficacy of SS in reducing the incidence of prostate cancer.

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