What is selenium?

What is Selenium?

Selenium is a trace mineral that is found in some meats, nuts, and seafood; although the best source for selenium is found in vegetables that are grown in soils containing selenium. Crops grown in the Dakotas and Nebraska are known to contain larger amounts of selenium, while certain areas in other parts of the world, such as China and Russia, are known to contain very little selenium.

Brazil nuts are known to be extremely high in selenium, containing as much as 500 mg per ounce, while other foods such as cod and turkey, only contain about 30 mg per ounce.

Next to Brazil nuts, tuna is the next best source for natural selenium, although the amount contained in three ounces of tuna, at about 60 mgs, is much less than a single ounce of Brazil nuts.

What is Selenium Deficiency?

Individuals who consume diets lacking in selenium, result in a selenium deficiency that may contribute to an increased risk of heart disease, thyroid problems, and an increased susceptibility to infections and illness. Many of the deficiencies related to a lack of selenium can be found in concentrated areas of China, where there is little selenium contained within the natural soil. People who are being fed through an intravenous feeding tube, are also at risk for selenium deficiency related health problems.

People with Crohns’ disease, or a deficiency related to iodine, might benefit from selenium supplementation.

It is extremely difficult for an individual to ingest too much selenium, since so few foods contain much of this nutrient, and organic supplements contain excessively large amounts of selenium; with Brazil nuts noted as the exception.

Side effects of ingesting too much selenium include the development of a condition known as selenosis, resulting in stomach upset, nausea, bad breath, and lethargy.

What is Selenium Supplementation?

Selenium supplementation is the method by which individuals that may be at risk for selenium deficiency, add this mineral back into their diet. This can be accomplished either by adding foods high in selenium, or by ingesting chemically formed selenium supplements. Current research suggests that organic forms of selenium, such as selenium yeasts, are the best choice.

Why not try a product that meets all of the above and more. Total Balance from Xtend-Life Natural Products is well worth looking in to. We have been using this supplement and have noticed a general sense of well being. Our energy levels have also improved, and we generally feel more positive than ever before.

Their best selling product Total Balance, contains selenium and has information on what is selenium, and other vitamins and minerals for effective consumption.

We have searched around for many multi ingredient supplements, and to be honest, haven't even come close to finding a supplement that can give these types of quality ingredients at the prices they offer.  

Precautions 

Often, when you consume to much of one nutrient, it can actually have a negative impact on you. it is not advised that people consume over 600 mcg of selenium per day for a long period. 900 mcg of this particular mineral can cause toxicity side effects, such as skin rashes, nervousness, lazy fatigue, hair loss, and even nausea. The RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance) is set at 70 mcg for men and 55 mcg for women. Try and stick to the Rda if you want to avoid any side effects from taking to much selenium. 


Our Personal opinion..

We believe Selenium to be one of the best minerals available, numerous studies from prestigious Universities have analyzed and backed this mineral. Because many horrible illnesses are said to be caused by free radical damage within your body, selenium’s job as one of the best potent antioxidant minerals should be taking in to consideration as part of anyone’s nutritional supplement regimen. Again, those with a pre existing medical condition should always talk to their professional doctor before starting a new supplement program of any kind. 

Our Tips On Choosing A Selenium Supplement 

1. Selenium works together with other potent anti oxidants, in particular, selenium works with Vitamin E. If you want to maximize the benefits of taking selenium, then you should be taking a product that also contains Alpha-Lipoic acid, beta carotene, green tea extract, and Vitamin C and E.

2. As we discussed above, if you are taking selenium long term, people should definitely stay around the RDA allowance for this certain mineral, the exception to this is, if one is taking selenium for a certain therapeutic benefit. Experts generally agree that a dosage of selenium between 50 mcg to 400 mcg will not create any negative side effects. Over 600 mcg per day, however, should probably not be taken for too long. 

3. Try and choose a selenium supplement that comes in the chelated form. Chelated minerals are ones that are bound to a protein molecule that makes their transport into the bloodstream way easier. In simple terms, they are much better absorbed by the bloodstream, and can go to work directly giving you the required benefits.

4. Always obtain your nutritional supplements from pharmaceutical GMP compliant manufacturers. Studies by both private and government companies have shown that customers in the U.S. only have a 1 in 5 chance of obtaining a supplement that contains the amount of ingredients that are stated on the label. This is because the nutritional supplement industry is largely unregulated in the U.S. and the UK.  GMP compliant facilities follow the strictest manufacturing standards. 

Why not use the best - Your health will thank you for it..

A Speciality Comprehensive Formula

One company that meets all of the above stated requirements and much more is Xtend-Life Natural Products From New Zealand. Their flagship product - Total Balance contains chelated Selenium, the best possible kind, along with a full range of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts, speciality nutrients, amino acids, and enzymes, for the best synergistic properties. To be honest, Total Balance contains most of the nutrients we have discussed on this entire website!

We have personally been using this product for the past few years now, and we have achieved new energy levels, improved positive mental activity, and a new general sense of overall well being. In short, we have been using this product with excellent results.

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