What is Selenium?

Selenium is an essential trace mineral that plays a critical role in maintaining optimal health. It is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body against oxidative stress and supports various physiological functions. Selenium is found naturally in soil, water, and certain foods, and it is vital for proper immune function, thyroid health, and cellular repair. Although the body only requires small amounts, selenium’s impact on overall health is significant.

 

Why is Selenium Important to Our Health?

Selenium is essential for various bodily functions:

  • Antioxidant Protection: Selenium is a component of selenoproteins, which combat oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals that can cause cellular damage.
  • Immune System Support: Selenium enhances the immune response, helping the body ward off infections.
  • Thyroid Function: It plays a crucial role in thyroid hormone metabolism and protects the thyroid gland from oxidative damage.
  • Heart Health: Selenium has been linked to reduced inflammation and improved cardiovascular function.
  • Cancer Prevention: Some studies suggest that selenium may lower the risk of certain cancers by supporting DNA repair and reducing oxidative damage.

 

How Can You Increase Your Selenium Levels Naturally?

The best way to maintain optimal selenium levels is through a balanced diet that includes selenium-rich foods. Examples include:

  • Brazil Nuts: Among the richest natural sources of selenium, even one or two nuts can provide your daily requirement.
  • Seafood: Fish like tuna, sardines, and halibut, as well as shellfish, are good sources.
  • Meats: Poultry, pork, and beef contain moderate levels of selenium.
  • Eggs and Dairy: Provide smaller amounts of selenium.
  • Plant-Based Foods: Grains, seeds, and vegetables like spinach and broccoli can contain selenium, depending on soil content.

Maintaining a varied and nutrient-rich diet is key to ensuring adequate selenium intake.

 

Why Do People Take Selenium as a Supplement?

Selenium supplements are often used to address deficiencies or as part of targeted health strategies. Common reasons include:

  • Supporting Immune Health: To strengthen the immune response.
  • Enhancing Thyroid Function: For individuals with thyroid-related conditions like Hashimoto’s disease or hypothyroidism.
  • Promoting Antioxidant Defense: To reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
  • Preventing Deficiencies: In regions where soil selenium content is low or for those with restrictive diets.

 

A Summary of Evidence for Supplemental IV Selenium Effectiveness

Intravenous (IV) selenium is gaining recognition for its effectiveness in specific clinical situations. Studies suggest IV selenium can play a vital role in:

  • Critical Illness: Selenium supplementation in ICU settings has shown potential in reducing mortality rates in critically ill patients by combating oxidative stress.
  • Thyroid Support: Studies suggest selenium may support thyroid function in autoimmune thyroiditis, but it should be used as a complementary approach rather than a standalone treatmen
  • Cancer Adjunct Therapy: Emerging studies suggest selenium’s antioxidant properties may enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments.

IV selenium provides a direct and efficient way to deliver the mineral, ensuring rapid absorption and optimal bioavailability.

 

Contact us

At Alchemy by Effect Doctors, we offer high-quality IV selenium treatments designed to support your health and wellness goals. Our expert team tailors each treatment to your unique needs, ensuring a safe and effective experience. Reach out to us today to learn more about how IV selenium can benefit your health journey.

 

Selenium can be taken as an add on to many of our IV Drips and is in the following products:

 

The Immunity IV Drip

Myers’ Cocktail IV Drip